CTOS is an expanded beam fiber optic connector. It is considered as harsh environment fiber optics. 
Amphenol SOCAPEX CTOS is a tactical Fiber Optic connector that is specifically designed for military applications. The CTOS connector features expanded beam technology for contactless transmission and is qualified according to NATO/STANAG4290 standards. With a hermaphroditic design, CTOS is a singlemode and multimode connector that can support up to four channels. In addition, CTOS is designed for gloved handling and blind mating in extreme conditions, making it ideal for battlefield communication, grounded vehicles, and military avionics applications. The connector is also equipped with protective windows for easy cleaning with simple tissue, ensuring that it can operate effectively in harsh environments. With 680 times the section of the fiber, the CTOS connector provides superior strength and reliability, even in challenging conditions. It is also compatible with drums and media converters, making it a versatile solution for a range of military applications.

Amphenol's CTOS: Fiber Optic Connectivity for Extreme Environments

Breakthrough expanded beam technology meets unparalleled reliability. The CTOS connector redefines fiber optic performance with:

• Hermaphroditic design featuring rapid coupling mechanism
• Robust stainless steel body with shock-absorbing ergonomic grip
• NATO-certified (STANAG 4290)
• MIL-STD-810-E tested (26 drops from 1.2m)
• 10,000+ mating cycle durability

Available in Multimode and Singlemode, CTOS delivers exceptional versatility. Singlemode configuration excels in analog and digital signal transmission with remarkable precision.

European manufactured and ITAR-free, CTOS simplifies global deployments while maintaining military-grade quality. The benchmark for critical communication infrastructures in military, industrial, and broadcast sectors.

What applications are suitable for the CTOS connector? The CTOS connector is ideal for:

1. Battlefield communication.

2. Ground vehicles.

3. Navy pierside communication.

4. Harsh Industrial environments, railway, Oil & Gas

    

How does expanded beam technology differ from butt joint technology?Expanded beam connectors use lenses to expand and refocus light between fibers, enabling contactless transmission that is less sensitive to contamination. In contrast, butt joint connectors align and physically contact the fiber ends, which can be more susceptible to dirt and require precise alignment. 

Is the CTOS connector hermaphroditic, and what are the benefits?
Yes, the CTOS connector has a hermaphroditic design, allowing identical connectors to mate with each other. This simplifies deployment and enables easy daisy-chaining of cable assemblies without the need for adapters. 

What standards does the CTOS connector comply with?
The CTOS connector is manufactured according to NATO/STANAG 4290 standards, ensuring its suitability for military applications.

How many channels can the CTOS connector support?
The CTOS connector can support up to four channels, accommodating both singlemode and multimode fibers. For more channels the CTOL can accept up to 8 channels.

What measures are in place for easy cleaning of the CTOS connector?
The connector features protective windows that can be easily cleaned with simple tissue, facilitating maintenance in the field. 

Can the CTOS connector be used with other types of connectors?
Yes, patch cords are available to connect the CTOS/CTOL connectors to other types, such as ST, SC, FC, LC connectors.

What accessories are available for the CTOS connector?
Accessories include shunt caps for testing, protective caps, and various backshells for different cable terminations. 

What is the typical insertion loss for the CTOS connector?
The CTOS connector typically exhibits an insertion loss of approximately 2 dB when using 50/125 µm multimode fiber. 

What is the beam expansion factor in the CTOS connector's expanded beam technology?
The expanded beam technology in the CTOS connector enlarges the optical beam to 680 times for MM and 5200 times the optical surface cross-sectional area of the fiber, enhancing resistance to contaminants and misalignment. 

What is the operating temperature range for the CTOS connector?
The CTOS connector is designed to operate effectively within a temperature range of -40°C to +85°C, depending on the specific cable used. 

What materials are used in the construction of the CTOS connector?
The CTOS connector features a stainless steel body with a rubber shell, providing durability and resistance to harsh environmental conditions. 

What are the available fiber types and supported wavelengths for the CTOS connector?
The CTOS connector supports both multimode fibers (50/125 µm and 62.5/125 µm) with operating wavelengths of 850 nm and 1300 nm, and singlemode fibers (125 µm) with operating wavelengths of 1310 nm and 1550 nm. 

Where is the CTOS connector designed and manufactured?
The CTOS connector is designed and manufactured in Europe, ensuring adherence to stringent quality standards and compliance with European regulations. 

What is the maximum insertion loss for the CTOS connector? The CTOS connector has a maximum insertion loss of 2.0 dB for multimode fiber and 2.5 dB for singlemode fiber, ensuring high-performance optical signal transmission.

What is the typical return loss for the CTOS connector? The typical return loss for the CTOS SM connector is -50 dB, minimizing signal reflections and optimizing data integrity in critical communication environments.

How does the CTOS connector handle different signal types?  The CTOS SM connector seamlessly supports both digital and RF signals, making it ideal for demanding applications in military (C4ISR) and industrial sectors.

Is the CTOS connector subject to ITAR regulations? No, the CTOS connector is designed and manufactured in Europe and is ITAR-free, simplifying its integration into global projects.

More informations : CTOS - Connecteurs fibre optique | Amphenol Socapex