Low Reflection Single Mode Multifiber Array Connector (MAC)

The Multifiber Array Connector (MAC) is a FASTECH(R) optical connector for simultaneously connecting up to 18 single mode or multimode fibers through the backplane. Simple insertion of a circuit pack into the card slot achieves an average connection loss of less than 1 dB with a maximum loss of 1.5 dB. We have studied the introduction of a beveled end to the MAC to reduct the reflection back to the transmitting fiber. When the MAC end was beveled at an angle of 5.5C to the plane perpendicular to the axis, the reflection was reduced to less than -40 dB while the connection loss did not increase owing to the bevel.