A tactical fiber-optic cable assembly (TFOCA) is a
fiber-optic cable
A fiber-optic cable, also known as an optical-fiber cable, is an assembly similar to an electrical cable, but containing one or more optical fibers that are used to carry light. The optical fiber elements are typically individually coated with ...
that is designed for high strength, and to be used in harsh environments. TFOCAs are used in
aerospace
Aerospace is a term used to collectively refer to the atmosphere and outer space. Aerospace activity is very diverse, with a multitude of commercial, industrial and military applications. Aerospace engineering consists of aeronautics and astrona ...
,
oil-drilling,
military
A military, also known collectively as armed forces, is a heavily armed, highly organized force primarily intended for warfare. It is typically authorized and maintained by a sovereign state, with its members identifiable by their distinct ...
, and
water purification applications.
TFOCA connectors are generally
hermaphroditic, so any two can be connected.
Several
US Department of Defense
The United States Department of Defense (DoD, USDOD or DOD) is an executive branch department of the federal government charged with coordinating and supervising all agencies and functions of the government directly related to national secu ...
specifications and
military specifications
A United States defense standard, often called a military standard, "MIL-STD", "MIL-SPEC", or (informally) "MilSpecs", is used to help achieve standardization objectives by the U.S. Department of Defense.
Standardization is beneficial in achievin ...
apply to TFOCA, including DOD-1678, MIL-C-83526/12-01, and MIL-STD-810C. Normal (civilian) fiber-optic connectors are much less expensive but require a variety of specialized tools to assemble.
References
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Fiber optics