SIST EN 4639-102:2008

Overview

SIST EN 4639-102:2008 is a European standard developed under the Aerospace and Defence Industries Association of Europe (ASD-STAN) and published by CEN. It specifies the performance and dimensional requirements for optical physical contacts used with EN 4641-102 cable specifications. This standard is part of the aerospace series focusing on optical rectangular, modular, multicontact connectors featuring a 1.25 mm diameter ferrule and a removable alignment sleeve holder. Designed for demanding aerospace environments, the standard covers operating temperature ranges between -55 °C and 100 °C.

The standard ensures that optical fiber connectors meet stringent parameters for durability, optical performance, and mechanical integrity to guarantee reliable signal transmission in aerospace applications. It is harmonized across many European countries, facilitating standardized manufacturing and quality control across aerospace component suppliers.

Key Topics

• Connector Type and Components
  Defines the optical contact for EN 4641-102 semiclassical cable structure, specifying rectangular modular connectors with multicontact capability and 1.25 mm ferrule diameter.

• Dimensions and Tolerances
  Detailed dimensional specifications with millimeter tolerances are included, ensuring compatibility and interchangeability within the connector family.

• Technical Performance Requirements

  • Fiber optic contact tested as part of a complete assembly according to EN 4639-001 technical specifications.
  • Performance tests include endurance at temperature, damp heat, rapid temperature changes, salt mist exposure, mechanical endurance with 500 mating/unmating cycles, and cable attachment effectiveness under flexing, pulling, torsion, and compression.

• Quality and Testing
  Testing protocols referenced from EN 2591 series ensure consistent verification of mechanical and optical characteristics, with key parameters such as insertion loss capped at 0.7 dB and return loss below -21 dB.

• Assembly Instructions
  Guidelines cover cleaning procedures for optical contacts, tooling requirements referencing MIL-I-81969/14, and step-by-step connector termination practices including fiber stripping, epoxy injection, curing, cleaving, polishing, and inspection.

• Operating Environment
  Designed for robust use in aerospace conditions, supporting a broad temperature range from -55 °C to +100 °C for reliable operation under extreme thermal stress.

Applications

SIST EN 4639-102:2008 is essential for aerospace manufacturers and suppliers involved in the design, production, and maintenance of fiber optic communication systems, particularly:

• Aircraft communication networks requiring compact, modular, and rugged optical connectors that withstand harsh environmental conditions.
• Avionics wiring harnesses where high reliability of multicontact optical connections is mandatory.
• Defense and space systems needing optical connectors that maintain performance over wide temperature fluctuations.
• Fiber optic cable assemblies compliant with EN 4641-102 specifications for aerospace cable optical standards.

By adhering to this standard, stakeholders ensure interoperability across different manufacturers, enhance system lifecycle reliability, and simplify maintenance of aerospace fiber optic infrastructure.

Related Standards

• EN 4641-102 - Cable optical, 125 µm diameter cladding, semi loose structure cable product standard, defining the cable used with the optical contact.
• EN 4639-001 - Technical specifications for optical connectors with 1.25 mm ferrule diameter and removable alignment sleeve holders.
• EN 4639-002 - List of product standards for the aerospace optical connector series.
• EN 2591-100 - Test methods for aerospace electrical and optical connections, detailing endurance, environmental, and mechanical test protocols.
• MIL-I-81969/14 - U.S. Department of Defense standard for insertion and extraction tooling compatible with the contacts.

These complementary standards together form a comprehensive framework for the design, testing, and qualification of aerospace fiber optic connectors and cables, facilitating high-performance and durable optical communication systems.

Keywords: EN 4639-102 standard, aerospace optical connectors, fiber optic contact, aerospace cable standard EN 4641-102, modular optical connectors, 1.25 mm ferrule, optical contact dimensions, aerospace connector testing, optical contact performance, fiber optic termination, aerospace temperature range connectors, European aerospace standards.