Supplier Profile 01 Multi-core fiber specialist | Custom fiber designs; configurations may include 4-core, 7-core, or other core counts. | Fiber-specific, single- or multi-fiber termination. | Core layout, core pitch, cladding diameter, and end-face geometry matched to the selected fiber. | Spatial-division multiplexing and multi-channel optical transmission. | Request a fiber cross-section drawing, dimensional tolerances, and sample inspection data. |
Supplier Profile 02 Precision glass processing | MCF supplied by the customer or sourced to an agreed specification. | V-groove, capillary, or custom glass-based alignment structure. | Channel positioning and repeatable fiber seating for the specified core geometry. | Laboratory prototypes and custom photonic assemblies. | Confirm alignment method, assembly yield, inspection method, and rework policy. |
Supplier Profile 03 Connectorized assembly | MCF assembly defined by the project fiber and optical interface. | Connectorized or pigtail-style unit, where the design permits. | Compatibility of connector type, polishing geometry, and core-to-interface mapping. | Test setups and systems requiring a detachable optical interface. | Ask for insertion-loss and return-loss test conditions, connector details, and mating requirements. |
Supplier Profile 04 Free-space coupling assembly | MCF core arrangement specified for a free-space optical path. | Fiber-array unit paired with a lens, prism, or other optical element as required. | Optical-axis alignment and coupling performance across the intended channels. | Bench-top experiments and free-space photonics systems. | Request channel-by-channel coupling data and the test wavelength and setup. |
Supplier Profile 05 Low-volume custom fabrication | Prototype quantities with project-defined fiber type and core layout. | Custom FAU geometry based on the supplied drawing or sample. | Engineering support for design review, assembly, and prototype iteration. | Research projects and early-stage system development. | Clarify minimum order quantity, prototype lead time, drawing ownership, and change control. |
Supplier Profile 06 Array packaging provider | Single MCF or multiple MCFs integrated into a package. | Packaged array with project-specific mounting and strain relief. | Mechanical stability and protection of the fiber during handling and installation. | Instrument modules and packaged photonic assemblies. | Check package dimensions, fiber routing, environmental limits, and mounting drawings. |
Supplier Profile 07 High-channel-count integration | Multi-core channels combined with other fiber or optical channels where specified. | Custom array or hybrid interface. | Channel identification, mapping, and consistency across the complete assembly. | Complex optical test systems and multi-channel subsystems. | Require a channel map, labeling plan, and individual-channel acceptance criteria. |
Supplier Profile 08 Measurement-focused supplier | MCF-FAU built to customer-defined optical performance limits. | FAU supplied with measured performance documentation. | Repeatable optical testing at the customer’s specified wavelength and interface. | Research, calibration, and optical component evaluation. | Confirm instrument method, reference conditions, measurement uncertainty, and report format. |
Supplier Profile 09 Telecom-oriented assembly | Fiber and geometry selected for the intended telecom wavelength band and system. | Connectorized or module-integrated format, subject to the design. | Optical performance and environmental requirements defined by the application. | Transmission research and specialized telecom equipment. | Specify wavelength range, operating conditions, optical-loss limits, and qualification tests. |
Supplier Profile 10 OEM and volume-production partner | Repeatable configuration established through an approved drawing and specification. | Production-ready FAU or integrated assembly. | Process control, lot traceability, and consistency between production batches. | OEM programs moving from qualification to recurring orders. | Review quality documentation, capacity, lead-time commitments, traceability, and change-notification procedures. |