Lane Electronics has launched a new line of military specification fibre-optic connectors aimed at high-performance applications in harsh environments.
The CINCH Fibreco D38999 Series III expanded beam connectors are designed to meet MIL-DTL-38999 III specifications, offering ruggedness and reliability for defence, aerospace, and industrial equipment.
The connectors employ Fibreco’s expanded beam technology, which uses contactless optical alignment to reduce wear and vibration sensitivity, while maintaining low insertion loss and high return loss. The design mirrors conventional D38999 copper connectors, giving users familiarity and reassurance when integrating optical and copper connections on the same platform.
Available in shell sizes 11, 13, 15, and 17, the connectors can accommodate between one and sixteen optical channels. Options include single-mode or multimode configurations, copper/optical hybrids, and a choice of aluminium, nickel-aluminium bronze, or stainless-steel shells. Backshells are offered in straight, 45°, or 90° orientations, while receptacles come with jam-nut or square-flange mounting and strain relief for tactical or zip-cord cables. The connectors are terminated via a straightforward epoxy-polish ferrule process, which enables rapid in-field termination and repair.
Lane Electronics, a franchised distributor of CINCH Fibreco, EATON Souriau, and HUBER+SUHNER products, will supply the connectors from in-house stock across the EMEA region. UK-based value-added cable assemblies are provided via accredited Fibreco termination partner Weald Electronics. The company also supports large and small production volumes with backshells, protective covers, and deployable cable reels, marketed through a comprehensive online store.
Phil McDavit, Lane Electronics’ representative for the launch, said the expanded beam connectors combine “high performance, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness with a simple termination process that allows rapid in-field deployment and repair.”
The move underscores growing demand for ruggedised optical connectivity solutions capable of withstanding extreme temperatures, vibration, and other challenging conditions.
