Flightline Optical Time Domain Reflectometer Development (F-OTDRD)

SPEC proposes a program to deliver a high-resolution no deadzones OTDR for flightline fiber optic diagnostics of the Navy F-18 E/F. Application to other multimode optical fiber networks such as Air Force F-22, Army RAH-66, and commercial Boeing 777 is expected. Extension to flyable and factory OTDR versions planned as follow on additions. Program lays foundation to develop ruggedization, miniaturization, and temperature stabilization for (1) aircraft-embedded OTDR for engineering assessment of fiber flight dynamics and (2) OTDR for use on the factory floor. SPEC's technical strategy uses photon counting technique to achieve required high resolution, optical design experience for rugged optics / electro optics semiconductor mounting, ASIC design experience to miniaturize / stabilize high speed circuits. SPEC has joint development relationship with 3M's Photodyne Division for user-friendly OTDR software and OTDR-specific design and manufacturing expertise. Military and civilian aircraft are adopting commercial fiber optic cable technology to address their high bandwidth data transmission needs within the aircraft. Higher data rates create increasing sensitivity to bit error rate of the optical link. Unambiguous detection of the subtle reductions in the optical link margin resulting from fiber bends, cracks, breaks, or bad connectors requires advanced instrumentation suitable for use on the flightline.