Laser Processing of Next Generation Optical Fibre Interconnects

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A Prototype of a game-changing laser-based method for processing optical fibre connectorsfor high-speed, low-cost termination of optical fibres will be developed within this project.The 2X annual growth of the internet and rise of ultrahigh definition video means fibre opticsis taking over from electrical cables as the only viable method of moving data even shortdistances, whether that is between the millions of servers and switches in a data centre orbetween high-definition video equipment and the television. This is creating a demand for 10billion fibre optic cables, all of which need the ends of the optical fibre to be terminated withan optical quality and consistent finish.The dominant optical fibre termination technology used by industry today involves manuallypolishing the fibre end using low cost labour. This produces inconsistent results and is notcompatible with automation or with the step-up in volume required.OpTek have previously developed and patented a method of laser processing fibres that isused in high-precision low-volume niche applications that can tolerate high cost. Additionally,OpTek has internally developed the capability to achieve the required quality in a lower-costplatform as part of a Proof-of-Concept project.The present project translates this platform into a Prototype machine to match the target pricesdemanded in these high-volume applications. This will be based on the innovative laser andoptical arrangements developed in the previous Proof-of-Concept stage, matched to the actualoptical performance criteria required of the optical fibre terminations.The Prototype will be suitable for manufacture in the UK, providing a way for OpTek and theUK to participate and benefit from the once in a lifetime opportunity driven by the shift formcopper to fibre which would otherwise only be appropriate to low-cost-base geographies.