EN 4639-002:2007

Overview

EN 4639-002:2007 is a European standard developed by CEN that belongs to the Aerospace series focusing on rectangular, modular, multicontact optical connectors. These connectors use a 1.25 mm diameter ferrule and feature a removable alignment sleeve holder. This part of the series provides a comprehensive list of product standards related to these optical connectors, defining their performance, contact arrangements, and compatibility with specific optical cables.

The standard was prepared by the Aerospace and Defence Industries Association of Europe (ASD-STAN) and ensures harmonized technical specifications are implemented across European member states. It supports industries involved in aerospace optical interconnection systems requiring high reliability and modularity.

Key Topics

• Connector Types and Codification
  The standard covers multiple connector types including plug and receptacle connectors, both single and dual module configurations. Codification aligns with product standards like EN 4639-003 (male optical module), EN 4639-004 (female optical module), and EN 4639-005 (removable alignment sleeve holder).

• Operating Conditions
  It specifies climatic and mechanical endurance requirements. Connectors must withstand a range of temperatures depending on the fiber optic cable used, salt mist exposure of 96 hours, and various fluid resistances. Mechanical endurance tests align with EN 4644-001 to simulate aerospace operational stress.

• Permissible Optical Cables
  Connectors are compatible with optical cables defined in EN 4641 series standards covering different fiber types (62.5/125 µm multimode fibers) and cable outer diameters (0.9 mm, 1.8 mm tight and semi-loose structures), ensuring sealing performance and durability.

• Contact Arrangement and Coding
  The document defines a 12-fiber contact arrangement, with color-coded bands to distinguish between single mode (PC and APC) and multimode fiber contacts for precise identification and installation consistency.

• Material Specifications
  Alignment sleeves are made from recommended materials such as zirconia ceramic for single mode and multimode fibers, or phosphor bronze for multimode fibers, ensuring optimal optical alignment and mechanical robustness.

• Assembly, Termination, and Cleaning
  Referenced technical reports, such as TR 4647, provide guidance on assembly procedures, cable termination, and cleaning instructions crucial for maintaining connector performance and reliability in aerospace environments.

Applications

EN 4639-002:2007 is essential for aerospace and defense industries where high-performance optical data transmission is critical. Applications include:

• Aircraft data networks requiring reliable, modular, and compact optical interconnect solutions.
• Satellite communications systems demanding ruggedized optical connectors withstand harsh environmental conditions.
• Missile and avionics systems where secure, precision optical connections improve system integrity and reduce maintenance.

This standard facilitates interoperability between manufacturers and streamlines procurement and qualification of optical connector products for aerospace use, ensuring compliance with strict reliability and environmental criteria.

Related Standards

EN 4639-002:2007 references and complements several related standards within the EN 4639 and EN 4641, EN 4644 series which cover:

• EN 4639-001: Technical specification for rectangular modular optical connectors.
• EN 4639-003 & EN 4639-004: Product standards for male and female optical modules.
• EN 4639-005: Standard for removable alignment sleeve holders.
• EN 4641 series: Specifications for optical cables with various cladding diameters and structures.
• EN 4644 series: Product standards for electrical and optical connector housings and accessories.
• TR 4647: Technical report on fiber and cable termination and cleaning instructions.

Together, these standards establish a comprehensive framework supporting the design, manufacture, testing, and maintenance of aerospace-grade optical connectors and cables.

Keywords: EN 4639-002:2007, aerospace optical connectors, rectangular modular connectors, 1.25 diameter ferrule, removable alignment sleeve holder, fiber optic connectors aerospace, multimode optical connectors, single mode optical connectors, aerospace standards optical connectors, EN 4639 series standards, aerospace fiber optic cable standards.