AirBorn Space-Rated Active Optical Cable Whitepaper

Increasing data requirements on satellites and spacecraft are driving the need for high-speed, on-board networks. The trend is fueled by technology improvements in avionics modules and payload instruments such as advanced optical sensors that generate high-resolution data. Prior to transmitting information back to Earth with high-gain antennas via an RF communications downlink, large volumes of data are sent over the local network from instruments to on-board storage used as a buffer.

A critical component of these satellite networks is the high-bandwidth cable carrying data signals between modules. As data rates and demands for more real-time transmission rise, there is a need for reliable, high-speed cable solutions that outperform traditional links like serial copper coaxial cable. As a result, spacecraft designers are exploring alternatives like high-speed fiber optic transmission cables.

Unlike conventional fiber optic cables, which consist of optical fibers terminated by optical connectors, an AOC is an optical fiber with electrical connectors at each end. Inside of the electrical connectors are optical transceivers that convert electrical signals to optical signals and vice versa. An AOC receives electrical signals over an electrical interface, converts those signals to optical signals, transmits the optical signals over an optical fiber, reconverts the optical signals to electrical signals and outputs the electrical signals over another electrical interface.

The Space-rated Active Optical Cable is enabling technology which allows space application designers the benefits of fiber optic cabling with the ease of use of a traditional copper cable assembly. The Space-rated AOC saves development and build time, allowing designers to instead focus on their space mission.

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