Automated method for fabrication of parallel multifiber cable assemblies with integral connector components

The unrelenting demand for ever-higher data transfer rates between computing devices, coupled with the emerging ability to produce robust, monolithic arrays of optical sources and detectors has fueled the development of high-speed parallel optical data links, and created a need for connectorized, parallel, multifiber cable assemblies. An innovative approach to the cable assembly manufacturing process has been developed which incorporates the connector installation process into the cable fabrication process, thus enabling the production of connectorized cable assemblies in a continuous, automated manner. This cable assembly fabrication process, as well as critical details surrounding the process, will be discussed.