EN 4640-004:2008

Overview

The EN 4640-004:2008 standard, published by CEN, defines the product requirements for receptacle optical connectors used in aerospace applications. These connectors are part of the aerospace series for rectangular, rack and panel, multicontact optical connectors featuring a 1.25 mm diameter ferrule with a removable alignment sleeve holder. This European Standard ensures uniform design, performance, and marking requirements for high-reliability optical connectors deployed in aerospace electric and electronic systems.

Key Topics

• Scope and Application
  Specifies characteristics of a female insert for optical receptacle connectors designed for rack and panel mounting in aerospace systems.

• Design and Dimensions
  Outer dimensions of the receptacle connector interface conform to ARINC Specification 600. The standard includes detailed dimensional data for the rectangular connector interface and defines the optical contact positions to guarantee compatibility and interchangeability.

• Removable Alignment Sleeve Holder
  A key feature is the removable sleeve holder provided with the female insert. It enables precise alignment of optical fibers and can be supplied separately for maintenance and repair.

• Materials and Surface Treatments
  Requirements are linked to ARINC Specification 600, ensuring durable materials and surface finishes suitable for demanding aerospace environments.

• Optical, Mechanical, and Climatic Characteristics
  Performance parameters refer to related product standards (EN 4640-002), covering resistance to mechanical stress and environmental conditions common in aerospace applications.

• Marking Requirements
  Connectors must be marked with the manufacturer’s identification, date of manufacture, and other traceability data according to EN 2424 aerospace marking standard, aiding effective lifecycle management.

Applications

• Aerospace Electric Systems
  Used in avionics systems requiring secure, high-performance optical connectivity for data, control signals, and communication.

• Rack and Panel Installations
  Ideal for aerospace racks and panels due to standardized rectangular design and multicontact configuration.

• Multifiber Optical Networks
  Accommodates multicontact arrangements enabling multiple optical channels within a single connector, reducing cabling complexity and weight in aircraft.

• Maintenance and Repair
  The removable alignment sleeve holder allows for easy servicing, minimizing downtime in critical aerospace system maintenance.

Related Standards

• EN 4640-001 – Technical specification for the series of optical connectors, including general terms and definitions.

• EN 4640-002 – Product standards detailing optical, mechanical, and climatic requirements for connectors in this family.

• EN 2424 – Aerospace product marking standard ensuring consistent identification and traceability.

• ARINC Specification 600 – Defines the mechanical interface and dimensional requirements for rack and panel connectors used in avionics.

Practical Benefits

• Ensures interoperability and interchangeability of optical connectors across aerospace platforms.

• Guarantees high reliability and precision alignment critical for optical signal integrity in demanding environments.

• Facilitates maintenance with removable sleeve holders, improving operational readiness.

• Supports aerospace industry needs for standardized, robust optical interconnect solutions that comply with stringent electrical and mechanical specifications.

By adhering to EN 4640-004:2008, aerospace manufacturers and maintenance providers can confidently select receptacle optical connectors that meet rigorous performance and safety standards, fostering efficiency and innovation in aerospace optical communications infrastructure.