Introduction To 3D Endface Testing of Optical Fiber Connectors

3D endface testing is a critical procedure to ensure the performance of optical fiber connectors. During fiber patch cord production, manufacturers use 3D interferometers to inspect connector endfaces and strictly control dimensional parameters. Three core indicators are measured: radius of curvature, apex offset and fiber height.

• Radius of Curvature

Radius of curvature refers to the arc radius of ceramic ferrule endface. Qualified connectors require curvature values within standard tolerance ranges.

Too small curvature applies excessive stress to optical fibers. Too large curvature fails to form tight physical contact and causes air gaps between mating connectors.

Non-standard curvature leads to optical scattering and poor endface contact, reducing optical transmission quality. Standard curvature guarantees appropriate contact pressure and stable signal transmission.

Figure 1 Radius of Curvature in 3D Testing

• Apex Offset

Apex Offset is the distance between the peak of polished ferrule curve and fiber core axis. It is a key polishing parameter. Inaccurate polishing will cause unqualified apex offset.

Figure 2 Apex Offset in 3D Testing

• Fiber Height

Fiber Height is the relative height difference between fiber endface and ferrule endface. It must comply with strict specification limits.

Excessively high fiber height damages fibers under heavy mating pressure. Excessively low fiber height creates gaps and increases insertion loss. This issue must be avoided in high-precision low-loss optical transmission systems.

Figure 3 Fiber Height in 3D Testing

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Introduction To 3D Endface Testing of Optical Fiber Connectors