Nicomatic’s comprehensive fiber optic solutions are designed to meet the increasing demands of high-speed data, shrinking system footprints, and stringent EMI conditions.
Rather than providing only off-the-shelf options, the company works directly with clients to co-develop custom optical systems that address unique engineering requirements in unmanned systems.
Backplane Integration with VITA 66-Compatible Solutions
With VPX architectures playing a crucial role in embedded systems, Nicomatic provides VITA 66-compliant solutions that allow optical connectivity through the backplane without compromising durability or compactness.
The company supports VITA 66.1 (using two MT ferrules) and VITA 66.4 (featuring one MT ferrule), offering:
- Rugged, space-efficient modules compatible with VPX backplanes
- High-precision MT ferrule alignment to reduce insertion loss
- Consistent performance under shock, vibration, and temperature extremes
Nicomatic delivers optical sub-assemblies that are ready to integrate and specifically adapted to customers’ mechanical and thermal environments.
VITA Optical Connectors
Nicomatic’s VITA 66 optical connectors are designed to offer exceptional durability in severe conditions. They support efficient data transmission within compact system formats and provide flexible modularity to accommodate a wide range of system requirements. Each connector can house up to 24 optical channels, or up to 48 channels when using dual MT ferrules.
Specialized options include the VITA 66.4 Dual configuration, which integrates two MT interfaces into the 66.4 form factor for added capacity.
Compact Optical Transceivers for Local Signal Conversion
Nicomatic transceivers are engineered to handle the conversion of electrical signals into optical signals and vice versa, at the subsystem or board level, minimizing reliance on copper-based connections.
These transceivers are compact and modular for tight configurations, fully connectorized on both electrical and optical sides, as well as scalable and suitable for quick deployment.
Technical features include:
- MT, TMT, or custom optical interfaces
- 4 transmit and 4 receive channels per unit
- High-density electrical interposer for seamless board integration
- Conversion speeds reaching 25 Gbps per channel, compatible with XXXGBASE-XXXX
- 15 dB optical budget at 10 Gbps to support reliable transmission
- Packaging designed for aerospace, defense, and space uses
- Low power consumption and efficient heat dissipation
Hybrid Connectivity with MT Ferrule in DMM Modules
Within the DMM product line, Nicomatic offers a compact hybrid module that merges optical and copper connectivity in one interface using an MT ferrule. This module supports applications requiring both power and data, and adheres to MIL-AERO standards. It features an MT ferrule that enables high-speed, high-density data transmission.
A captive screw mechanism ensures quick and secure installation, even under vibration. The module’s small footprint is compatible with both round and flat cabling, making it suitable for space-constrained environments. This DMM hybrid solution is well-suited for aerospace, military, and advanced technology systems.
Custom Fiber Optic Assemblies for Seamless Integration
Nicomatic also develops custom fiber optic sub-assemblies tailored to specific technical demands. These assemblies range from hybrid fiber/copper harnesses to compact cabling solutions for embedded systems.
Available configurations include:
- Hybrid electrical and optical assemblies
- Optical harnesses with multiple channels, in either singlemode or multimode formats
- Customized connectors with reinforced cable terminations
- Integration into racks, housings, PCBs, or other mechanical assemblies
In-House Optical Testing & Validation
Nicomatic maintains a dedicated lab for optical testing, enabling full qualification of fiber optic links to meet required standards. This includes insertion loss (IL) and return loss (RL) measurement to ensure signal integrity.
The lab also performs mechanical and thermal endurance testing to validate reliability under challenging conditions. Functional testing is conducted under stress factors such as shock, vibration, and temperature, with data rate monitoring from 1 to 25 Gbps per channel.
Additional procedures include microscopic examination and cleanliness verification, as well as geometry inspection of connector end faces to confirm proper alignment and finish. These services support faster prototyping, increased reliability, and smoother transition to production.
Technical Training in Fiber Optics
To help ensure consistent and compliant fiber optic assembly, Nicomatic provides hands-on technical training led by its specialists. These sessions walk participants through the complete assembly and inspection process.
Training benefits include:
- Familiarity with international standards such as IEC 61300
- Practical instruction on stripping, polishing, cleaning, and visual inspection
- Techniques for maintaining optical budgets through quality control
- Structured inspection processes for dependable production
- Exposure to a wide range of fiber terminations (MT, PMT, ARINC 801, MIL)
- Optional certification upon course completion
