Fiber Array Unit (FAU) & PMF

PMF Patch Cord / Pigtail for CPO and Silicon Photonics

The BWNFiber PMF patch cord and pigtail use panda-type polarization-maintaining fiber to preserve a defined polarization state from an external laser source to a silicon photonic engine. Connector, bare-fiber, length and slow-axis configurations are selected for CPO, NPO and polarization-sensitive test setups.

Verified Specifications

ParameterSpecification
Fiber typePanda-type PMF; elliptical-core PMF optional
Operating wavelength1310 nm / 1550 nm typical; custom wavelengths available
Fiber classPM1550, PM1310, PM980 or project-specified
Connector optionsFC/APC, FC/UPC, LC/APC, LC/UPC, SC/APC or bare fiber
Slow-axis alignment±3° standard; tighter tolerance on request
Insertion loss≤0.50 dB typical for a connectorized assembly
Return loss≥60 dB APC; ≥50 dB UPC
Extinction ratio≥20 dB typical per connector pair
Cable diameter0.9 mm tight buffer, 2.0 mm or 3.0 mm
Jacket ratingLSZH, OFNR, OFNP or project-specified
Length range0.5 m to 100 m+; project-specific lengths available
Operating temperature-20°C to +70°C standard; extended range available

Multimode PMF, angled-cleave pigtails and custom fiber coatings are project options until the exact drawing and datasheet are approved.

When to Use a PMF Patch Cord / Pigtail

  • External laser source to FAU feed in CPO switch trays
  • Polarization-sensitive silicon photonics test and measurement
  • Coherent-system reference leads
  • Optical sensor and lidar polarization-preserving links
  • NPO and CPO prototypes

Use a PMF FAU instead when

The connection terminates directly on a photonic chip or optical engine that requires a multi-fiber array with fixed pitch and slow-axis alignment.

Use a standard single-mode patch cord instead when

The optical path is not polarization-sensitive and does not require a maintained polarization state.

Installation and Acceptance Checklist

  1. Confirm slow-axis orientation relative to the connector key.
  2. Specify connector type, polish and gender where applicable.
  3. Define jacket rating against facility and local-code requirements.
  4. Agree on insertion loss, return loss and extinction-ratio limits.
  5. Verify length, labeling and packaging before production.
  6. Observe the specified bend radius and tensile load during installation.

Related Products

Request a PMF Drawing

Send the wavelength, connector, slow-axis orientation, length, jacket rating, quantity and application details for a project-specific review.

Request a PMF Drawing and Quote

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a PMF patch cord?

It is a connectorized polarization-maintaining fiber cable designed to preserve a defined polarization state.

What is a PMF pigtail?

It is a short PMF length with a connector on one end and a bare or splice-ready end on the other.

What connector types are available?

FC/APC, FC/UPC, LC/APC, LC/UPC, SC/APC and bare-fiber terminations can be reviewed.

What is slow-axis alignment?

It is the rotational orientation of the PMF slow axis relative to a mechanical connector reference.

What is the typical extinction ratio?

At least 20 dB per connector pair is a typical target; the final requirement should be stated in the approved specification.

Can I request a custom length?

Yes. Length, jacket and labeling are configured by project.

What test reports are available?

IL, RL, end-face inspection and extinction-ratio records can be specified per cable or project.

How is PMF different from standard single-mode fiber?

PMF uses an internal stress structure to maintain a defined polarization axis.

Is PMF needed for every data center link?

No. It is used where the optical path is polarization-sensitive.

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