Design and performance of a modular jack type Mini-MT connector for high-density optical duplex connection

We have developed a modular jack type Mini-MT that employs a compact two-fiber ferrule in a housing. The connector mechanism is similar to that of a conventional electric modular jack type connector. The connector also has a locking mechanism to prevent accidental disconnection and a high packaging density of 2 fibers/cm/sup 2/. Fabricated connectors for single-mode two-fiber ribbons exhibit a low insertion loss of 0.17 dB and a high return loss of more than 40 dB.