Fiber optic data bus networks

Data bus network topologies for military and space applications are analyzed for optimum utilization of fiber optics, and a novel star cluster bus network design is described. Advantages and disadvantages of the various forms of the basic linear, star, and ring topologies are discussed. Relative performance, reliability, complexity, and cost of the different but network topologies are considered. The star cluster bus utilizes distributed passive transmissive star couplers and a central active star coupler. This design has several advantages over previously published bus network designs. Some of these advantages are low pulse distortion, equal optical power level to all bus terminals, high reliability, and relatively low cost. A star cluster bus was designed and built to meet the MIL-STD-1773 fiber-optic bus network requirements. The transfer of data between terminals connected to the bus network was demonstrated.<>