R-SFP

Problem/Opportunity: A critical problem inherent in the available commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) small form factor pluggable (SFP/SFP+) and related transceiver modules, and electro-optic (E/O) connectors and interfaces is that none are designed and manufactured per relevant military standards; therefore, all will suffer routine and frequent failures in environments that induce high vibration, radiation and/or broad thermal operating conditions.

Proposed Solution: This project will allow for the ruggedization of SFP/SFP+ (R-SFP/R-SFP+) optical transceiver modules and a mating ruggedized fiber optic network (FON) interface module that is real time protocol reprogrammable/reconfigurable.

Impact: The combination of the proposed ruggedized R-SFP/R-SFP+ fiber optic transceivers, ruggedized R-NIC, and commercially available ruggedized LC fiber optic connectors/cables are the most critical components of a vibration tolerant, low size, weight and power (low-SWaP) fiber optic communications network system or sub system. The low SWaP, high bandwidth, highly reconfigurable FON communications system is ideally suited for rapid integration into current and future electric aircraft, as well as other vehicles, aircraft and spacecraft that require highly reliable operation in harsh environments.