Optical fiber connector, abutment fixture and method of compatible use thereof

摘要

A method and apparatus for positioning the terminal end surface of a cleaved optical fiber in a predetermined plane relative to a base fiber adapter which serves to interface the fiber surface with optical test equipment, or the like. The bare fiber adapter includes a pair of gripping members having opposed surfaces of resilient material movable into and out of engagement with an end portion of the fiber. A so-called connector module at the forward end of the adapter has an axial passageway for the fiber and is configured for releasable coupling to a fixture having a polished surface which serves as an abutment or stop for the end of the fiber when it is advanced through the passageway of the adapter connector module. Versatility is provided by releasable coupling of the connector modules to the gripping portion of the adapter, thereby permitting use of a variety of interchangeable connector modules configured for cooperative engagement with various types of test equipment and the like.