SIST EN 4626-201:2009

Overview

SIST EN 4626-201:2009 is a key European standard focused on aerospace optical connectors, specifically for rectangular, multicontact rack and panel connectors with Quadrax cavities and 2.5 mm diameter ferrules. This part of the EN 4626 series addresses the optical contact sub-assembly for receptacles, establishing detailed product standards including installed dimensions, performance requirements, and assembly guidelines. Its scope covers fiber optic contact installation per EN 4531-101 within the EN 4626-004 receptacle adaptor, adapted for 62.5 µm/125 µm fiber with a nominal 1.8 mm cable diameter.

The standard supports operating temperature ranges from -65 °C to 125 °C, depending on cable specifications. It is essential for aerospace applications requiring reliable high-performance optical connections resistant to harsh environmental conditions. EN 4626-201 was developed under the European Committee for Standardization (CEN) and complies with CEN/CENELEC internal regulations for national standardization across multiple European countries.

Key Topics

• Connector Design and Dimensions: Specifies precise installed dimensions of fiber optic contacts in rectangular, Quadrax cavity connectors, ensuring compatibility and interchangeability.
• Performance Requirements: Defines endurance criteria, including temperature cycling, salt mist exposure, vibration, shock, and fluid resistance essential for aerospace environments.
• Testing Protocols: Complies with EN 2591-100 test methods covering visual inspection, mechanical endurance (500 mating cycles), insertion loss (maximum 1 dB), return loss (RL < -21 dB), and optical discontinuity thresholds.
• Assembly and Cleaning Procedures: Describes easy access for cleaning optical end faces with lint-free tissues and approved solvents, alongside recommended tooling for contact insertion/removal without specialized equipment.
• Technical Coordination: References complementary standards such as EN 4531-101 (optical contacts) and EN 4626-004 (receptacle adaptors) ensuring a cohesive systems approach.

Applications

• Aerospace Optical Communication Systems: SIST EN 4626-201:2009 is critical for fiber optic interconnects in avionics, aircraft wiring harnesses, and data transmission systems where robust, temperature-resistant, and precision optical contacts are vital.
• Defense and Military Aerospace: Supports optical communication links in military aircraft requiring high reliability under extreme temperature and mechanical stress.
• Rack and Panel Assemblies: Applicable in aerospace equipment interfaces for rack-mounted panels requiring multicontact optical connectors with Quadrax cavities for signal integrity.
• Harsh Environment Deployments: Suitable for operations where connectors endure rapid temperature changes, salt mist, humidity, and mechanical vibrations without performance degradation.

Related Standards

• EN 4531-101: Aerospace optical circular connectors with flush contacts, focusing on single and multipin contacts and compatible fiber optic cables.
• EN 4626-004: Defines rectangular optical rack and panel connector receptacle adaptors for the Quadrax cavity, related to EN 4626-201 for installed contact specifications.
• EN 2591-100: Describes general test methods for aerospace electrical and optical connection elements, forming the basis for testing in EN 4626-201.
• ARINC 600: Aerospace standard governing equipment interfaces, including adaptor tooling requirements referenced for assembly operations.
• MIL-I-81969/8B and MIL-I-81969/14C: Tooling specifications used for contact insertion and removal, ensuring consistent maintenance procedures.

SIST EN 4626-201:2009 is a foundational standard for aerospace-grade optical connectors, enabling high precision, reliability, and environmental resilience. Understanding and implementing its specifications ensures compliance with industry best practices for fiber optic connectivity in advanced aerospace systems.