Introduction

Fiber optic connector products are sold and installed worldwide in volumes 10 to 100 million units per year. Despite the large numbers, most fall into one of a few basic designs and therefore have common failure modes. This report reviews the subject of reliability of connectors from the standpoint of failure modes. Within that context, the following topics are addressed.

•Technology trends

•Applications

•Designs and materials

•Performance requirements and standards

•Failure mechanisms and analysis