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Platform one KDPOF has teamed up with Fuzin to develop a sensor network using plastic optical fibres (writes Nick Flaherty). KDPOF has developed key technology to support data rates of 1 Gbit/s on plastic fibres, which are lighter and more reliable than glass fibres as well as more resistant to electrical noise than copper cables. Using plastic fibres is also 30% cheaper than shielded twisted pair (STP) copper wires, they are just as flexible, and use a simple plastic snap-fit connector rather than soldering. The KDPOF KD1053 controller chip and KD9351 fibre optic transceiver have been integrated into Funzin’s FAIP 3.0 Ethernet platform for sensor networks in automotive designs. The transceiver integrates the transimpedance amplifier, photodiode, LED driver and LED as a single device to provide a high-speed data backbone for cameras, radar and Lidar sensors. The FAIP 3.0 system also includes a controller board, a quad HD 1440p resolution camera and plastic fibre optic cable. The carrier board supports the connection with variety of KDPOF legacy devices. It provides eight optical interfaces with KDPOF’s KD1053 and KD9351. The KD9351 uses the same low-cost encapsulation that is used for MEMS devices and allows for surface mount reflow assembly with 8 x 7 mm LGA components. Plastic fibre sensor system Sensors The FAIP 3.0 development board for plastic fibre comms in autonomous vehicles ENABLING TECHNOLOGY EVERYWHERE Harwin’s connector products are proven to perform in extreme conditions, with shock, vibration and temperature range rigorously tested. Micro connectors start at 1.25mm pitch delivering 2A per contact, up to 8.5mm and 60A - we cover a wide range of applications for when SWaP matters most. With our quality, service, support, and highly reliable products, you can depend on Harwin. harwin.com Engineer to Engineer – Harwin won’t let you down. Scan here for more Connect with confidence Connectors shown actual size Harwin UAV Unmanned Systems Oct 21.indd 1 01/10/2021 11:26