Avago intros robust fiber optic links for harsh temperature environments

electronica 2010, MUNICH, GERMANY: Avago Technologies has announced a new line of optical fiber transmitters and receivers optimized for harsh temperature environments, here at the Electronica 2010 trade fair.

The HFBR-152xETZ/252xETZ optical fiber modules provide reliable data transmissions over cost-effective plastic or silica fiber in the –40 to +85° C extended industrial temperature range. Designers can use the devices to implement system control or drives in wind turbines and solar farms, traction inverters in trains, and for other industrial applications and medical systems.

An extension of the Avago Versatile Link series, the new modules eliminate the electromagnetic interference, crosstalk, and electrical ground problems that are common with copper wire solutions, while also providing easier, more flexible installation.

The HFBR-152xETZ transmitters are based on a high-power, 650-nm LED that is easy to drive and modulate. The transmitters operate at speeds from 1-125 MBd over distances up to 100 meters. The HFBR-252xETZ high-bandwidth receivers contain a PIN photodiode and internal transimpedance amplifier. The modules come in plastic housing that interlock for single-channel or duplex links in a horizontal mount configuration, providing flexibility to designers during PCB layout.

“The addition of these new Versatile Link series modules with extended temperature range operation is based directly on requests from our customers in the rapidly growing renewable energy and transportation markets,” said Mickael Marie, marketing manager for industrial fiber products at Avago. “With best-in-class electromagnetic compatibility performance and ease-of-use, Avago optical fiber modules have become the de-facto industry-standard for industrial applications.”