Birns Introduces New Hybrid Cable Assembly

10/11/2009

Birns, Inc., provider of high-performance connectors, penetrators, cable assemblies and lights for deep submergence and diving decompression markets, now offers a new advanced, versatile level of connectivity with its Birns Millennium 3T series. This recent addition offers a diverse suite of capabilities with both multi- and single-mode optical fibres and high voltage (≤ 3.6Kv) and low voltage (≤600v) conductors delivering unparalleled bandwidth and power for extreme depth applications.

The Birns Millennium 3T family of connectors was created specifically to push the technological barriers for challenges inherent in transmitting significant amounts of real-time data for subsea observatories, towed data acquisition devices, ROV projects or any user of underwater electro-optical or coax cabling. The robust new Birns series provides distinct competitive advantages over other electro-optical connectors as it can carry high and low voltages; a single connector can deliver power and control signals and high bandwidth telemetry both to and from a device.

Separately, the Birns Millennium 3T electro coax hybrid segment includes GPS capabilities, as well as flexible solutions for high-definition cameras and antennae for military and industrial applications. This elevated level of capabilities and performance does not come at the cost of optical loss, however. The typical loss recorded for a cable assembly of the series is <1dB, in accordance with ANSI/TIA/EIA-455 for fibre optic return loss test procedures.

"Our ongoing approach to enhancing connector technology is tailored to match the evolving demands of the industry," says Eric Birns, company President and CEO. "The Birns Millennium 3T series is a huge leap forward - other optical connectors either can't carry electrical power, can't handle high voltages or don't withstand open-face pressure. Our solution provides users who have challenging data stream requirements with an underwater connector that meets all of their varied needs. Plus, in the absence of any true ‘industry standard' in the deep-submergence field for definitions relating to underwater electrical connectors withstanding hydrostatic pressure, Birns has developed a comprehensive set of metrics to enable users to make the best choice for unique requirements."

Both the electro-optical and electro-coax hybrid formats of the Birns Millennium 3T series can be made with special mounting configurations that can be designed to conform to MIL-C-24217/4-005 specifications. This provides a seamless upgrade option for legacy equipment without costly comprehensive replacements. For creating complete cable assembly systems, all of Birns' expert electrical technicians are Certified IPC Specialists per J-STD-001 and Birns' optical technicians are ETA-I certified.

For more information, visit http://birns.com/.