What is CMF (Ceramic Multifiber Ferrule)? A new optical connection solution

What are the features of CMF (ceramic Multifiber ferrule)?
-Three characteristics required of a CPO-

CMF (Ceramic Multi-Fiber Ferrule) is a technology that plays an innovative role in the optical communication networks of data centers and AI clusters. In particular, in environments where Co-Packaged Optics (CPO) and high-density optical connections are required, CMF stands out from other ferrules with three features: heat resistance, compact size, and high-precision connection performance.

What are the demands on optical connectors due to the introduction of CPO (Co-Packaged Optics)?

Co-Packaged Optics (CPO) is a technology that places an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) and an optical module on the same board in network equipment. This technology can reduce signal transmission delays and power consumption. However, to realize CPO, an optical connector that can withstand high temperatures of over 260°C when mounted on the board is required.

Conventional plastic ferrules could not withstand the high temperatures of the reflow process, which caused deformation and fiber pistoning, resulting in poor connection quality. To address this issue, we are developing CMF® in addition to the "Reflowable MT Ferrule–MTHR ".

Three characteristics required of a CPO

High heat resistance of CMF: Why it can withstand high temperatures of 260℃

Conventional Multifiber ferrules made of thermoplastic resin (MT Ferrule) have difficulty withstanding temperatures of 260°C or higher during the reflow process (the high-temperature heating process used to mount components on a circuit board), which can cause deformation of the ferrule and fluctuations in the amount of optical fiber protrusion, a phenomenon known as "fiber pistoning." However, CMF overcomes these problems by using a ceramic material. It has been proven that there is no change in shape even at high temperatures, and no degradation in performance.

The appeal of CMF for miniaturization: Achieving high performance even in small spaces

CMF has the same connection interface as conventional MT Ferrule, but has a compact design that can be customized from 0.5mm to 1.2mm in thickness depending on the application, such as flat polishing or angle polishing. In particular, it can efficiently connect optical fibers even in the narrow spaces inside data centers where CPO and high-density wiring are required. By achieving both compactness and high density, it maximizes the space efficiency of data centers and contributes to cost reduction. Customization of height and width is also possible.

CMF's technological capabilities provide stable optical communications with high-precision connection performance

CMF is designed to minimize the misalignment of optical fibers. While misalignment is the main cause of loss (insertion loss, IL) in optical communication, CMF is capable of keeping IL (insertion Insertion Loss) at 0.7 dB or less (standard Single-mode level). It has been confirmed that it can provide stable optical communication quality.

CMF demonstration results

Proven by heat resistance tests! The reason for minimal variation in the fiber hole position of CMF

In a demonstration experiment of the CMF, even after three hours of exposure to a high-temperature environment of 260°C, the positional deviation of the fiber hole was extremely small and no deformation of the ferrule was observed. This also demonstrated that stable optical fiber connection is possible even in high-temperature environments.

CMF Design to Prevent Fiber Pistoning: What is the Difference with MT Ferrule?

Fiber pistoning is a phenomenon in which the optical fiber retracts during the reflow process, causing a loss of physical contact. This is particularly noticeable with MT Ferrule, leading to increased Insertion Loss and connection failures. However, with CMF, the fiber height from the connection end face is within the standard range (1000nm to 3500nm), and it has been confirmed that fiber pistoning does not occur.

Summary: Strengthen your optical communication network with CMF (ceramic Multifiber ferrule)!

CMF (ceramic Multifiber ferrule) is an innovative technology that realizes all of the heat resistance, miniaturization, and high-precision connections required for next-generation optical communication systems. In particular, CMF has an overwhelming advantage over other options in data centers and AI clusters that are promoting the introduction of CPO (Co-Packaged Optics).

CMF is also expected to be applied to optical communication applications such as aerospace, which require long-term reliability at high temperatures. Although CMF is still under development, samples can be provided.
Please feel free to contact us for any implementation or customization inquiries!