SIST EN 2591-607:2004

Overview

SIST EN 2591-607:2004 is a European aerospace standard developed by CEN that specifies test methods for evaluating the immunity of optical connection elements to ambient light coupling. Belonging to the aerospace series of standards covering electrical and optical connection elements, Part 607 focuses specifically on optical components such as permanent connections and fibre couplers. The primary objective is to measure how well these optical elements resist interference caused by external light sources, ensuring reliable performance in demanding aerospace environments.

This standard is intended for use together with EN 2591-100, which outlines the general test methods related to electrical and optical connection elements in aerospace applications.

Key Topics

• Immunity to Ambient Light Coupling
  The standard defines a method for assessing the ability of optical elements-such as fibre couplers and permanent optical connections-to resist undesired power coupling from external ambient light sources that can impair signal integrity.

• Test Setup and Apparatus
  The methodology involves a range of equipment including:

  • A modulated light source (LS) to simulate external illumination
  • An integration sphere to measure coupled light power
  • A detector and light detector system matched to the spectral characteristics of the light source
  • Diffusers, lenses, and terminators to condition the optical signal
  • A removable light proof element allowing control of ambient light exposure during testing

• Measurement Procedure
  The optical element under test is inserted into the integration sphere with and without the light proof element to measure background coupling and examine the ambient light effect. Several power levels are recorded and used to calculate an ambient light coupling coefficient expressed in decibels (dB).

• Calculation of Coupling Coefficient
  The coupling coefficient quantifies the immunity of the component to external light interference and is critical for assessing component suitability for aerospace applications where precision optical communication is vital.

Applications

SIST EN 2591-607:2004 is essential for manufacturers and engineers working with high-reliability aerospace optical systems, including:

• Aircraft communication systems that use fibre optic links to ensure electromagnetic immunity
• Satellite optical connections requiring robust protection against stray light influence
• Defense and space vehicles optical elements where signal integrity and immunity to ambient interference are critical
• Qualification and certification testing during component development or system integration

Ensuring conformity with this standard helps to minimize signal degradation or errors in optical networks due to ambient light coupling, thus enhancing overall system reliability and safety in aerospace environments.

Related Standards

• EN 2591-100 - Aerospace series - Elements of electrical and optical connection - Test methods - Part 100: General test requirements and methods
• Other parts of EN 2591 series dealing with electrical and optical connections and their various testing protocols
• Aerospace communication standards addressing electromagnetic compatibility and optical system certification

By adhering to SIST EN 2591-607:2004 and associated standards, aerospace manufacturers can achieve higher quality assurance in optical connection immunity, promoting greater trust and performance in mission-critical applications.

Keywords: airborne optical connections, ambient light coupling immunity, aerospace optical element testing, fibre coupler testing, optical connection standards, EN 2591-607, CEN aerospace standards, optical signal interference, aerospace communication reliability, optical element test methods.