DIAMOND Active Core Alignment (ACA)

The DIAMOND Active Core Alignment (ACA) system delivers precision fiber connections through real-time core monitoring and automated alignment. This technology achieves sub-micron accuracy by employing a proprietary two-component ferrule—a hard zirconia ceramic sleeve paired with a ductile titanium insert—that actively centers the fiber core during connection. Unlike passive alignment methods, ACA uses real-time optical feedback to minimize insertion loss and maximize return loss performance across diverse fiber types and wavelengths.

– Technical Specifications

• Core Eccentricity: Under 0.125 µm; secondary crimping can reduce to 0.25 µm or less for single-mode fibers
• Alignment Method: Active, using real-time optical feedback
• Ferrule Design: Two-component proprietary construction with zirconia ceramic outer casing and titanium capillary insert
• Manufacturing Tolerance: Tenth-micron precision on zirconia outer diameter; eliminates need for excessive tolerances and fiber-to-ferrule selective matching
• Insertion Loss: Within 0.1 dB class for randomly combined connectors; ultra-low loss versions achieve approximately 0.02 dB
• Return Loss: Superior performance through optimized polishing and minimal core offset
• Crimping Process: First stage uses circular tool to deform titanium insert for tight fiber bore fit; second stage applies precision lateral shifting for sub-micron core-to-core alignment

– Key Features

• Operates across visible to near-UV wavelengths
• Eliminates conventional manufacturing constraints through active centering
• Two-stage crimping provides both mechanical stability and optical alignment
• Minimal glue space requirement enhances connection durability

– Typical Applications

• High-speed data transmission
• Medical sensing equipment
• Aerospace and defense systems
• Quantum photonics
• Telecommunications infrastructure
• Industrial systems (Industry 4.0)
• Military platforms
• Medical devices

– Compatibility & Integration

ACA technology accommodates all fiber types: single-mode (SM), multi-mode (MM), polarization-maintaining (PM), photonic crystal fiber (PCF), and specialty fibers across visible to near-UV wavelength ranges.