Introduction to Bare Fiber Optic Adapter Series

Bare fiber optic adapters are specialized devices that enable temporary connections of un-terminated fibers, with notable series including EXFO BFA, Newport F-AS/F-AM, and Bullet® adapters.

Overview of Bare Fiber Adapters

Bare fiber adapters allow technicians to connect bare (unconnectorized) optical fibers to test equipment, patch panels, or other fiber optic components without permanent connectors. They ensure precise alignment, low insertion loss, and fiber protection, making them essential for testing, R&D, and manufacturing applications. These adapters are compatible with single-mode and multimode fibers and various connector types such as FC, SC, and ST.

Key Series of Bare Fiber AdaptersEXFO BFA SeriesIncludes BFA-200 and BFA-3000 models. Designed for fast, repeatable power measurements on non-connectorized fibers. Features a spring-loaded mechanism for consistent fiber positioning and a push-button locking system.

Compatible with EXFO power meters and optical heads, supporting FC, SC, and ST connectors. Newport F-AS and F-AM SeriesEnables temporary connections for single-mode and multimode fibers. Useful for connecting fibers to power meters, OTDRs, and other instruments.

Uses a precision cut foam pad to secure fibers and ensure repeatable measurements. Supports fibers with buffer sizes up to 900 µm and includes kits with interchangeable connector tips and universal mating sleeves. Bullet® Bare Fiber AdapterProvides a cost-effective, reusable solution for temporary fiber connections.

Features removable connector modules and a micropad clamping system to hold fibers securely. Requires minimal bare fiber exposure after cleaving (as little as 0. 14" depending on connector type), reducing fiber waste and breakage risk.

Compatible with all industry-standard connectors and supports buffer sizes up to 900 µm.

Applications

Bare fiber adapters are widely used in: Field testing and maintenance of fiber optic networks.

Laboratory and R&

D setups for optical component testing. Manufacturing environments for quality control and performance verification.

OTD

R and power meter measurements without permanent connectorization.

Summary

The main bare fiber adapter series include EXFO BFA, Newport F-AS/F-AM, and Bullet® adapters. Each series offers unique features such as spring-loaded mechanisms, interchangeable tips, and secure fiber holding systems, catering to different testing and measurement needs while ensuring low-loss, precise, and repeatable connections. These adapters are indispensable for efficient fiber optic testing and temporary interconnections.