The **FTS-2B-R/B** is a high-performance **Fiber Optic Transfer Switch** (often referred to as an Optical Bypass Switch) manufactured by companies like **DiCon Fiberoptics**. It is primarily used in network reliability applications to ensure data continuity during power failures or equipment malfunctions. Below is an explanation of its electronic components, technical specifications, and internal mechanisms. --- ### 1. Key Technical Specifications The "R/B" in the model name typically refers to **Remote/Bypass** functionality, often utilized in 2x2 configurations. | Feature | Specification | | :--- | :--- | | **Fiber Type** | Singlemode (9/125) or Multimode (50/125, 62.5/125) | | **Switching Speed** | Typically < 10ms - 25ms | | **Insertion Loss** | < 0.7 dB (Low loss for signal integrity) | | **Control Voltage** | 5V or 12V DC (Standard logic levels) | | **Durability** | > 10 million cycles | | **Operating Temp** | -5°C to +70°C | --- ### 2. Internal Electronic & Mechanical Components #### A. Micro-Electromechanical Systems (MEMS) or Opto-Mechanical Prism The core of the FTS-2B-R/B is either a **MEMS mirror** or a **moving prism**. * **Prism Mechanism:** A small, precision-engineered prism is physically moved into or out of the light path by an electromagnetic actuator. * **Alignment:** Requires high-precision V-grooves to ensure that light from the input fiber perfectly aligns with the output fiber. #### B. Electromagnetic Actuator (Solenoid) The "switch" action is driven by a solenoid. * **Latching vs. Non-Latching:** Most FTS-2B models are **Non-Latching**. This means they require continuous power to stay in the "Normal" state. If power is lost, a spring return mechanism automatically pulls the prism to the "Bypass" state, ensuring the network link remains closed even if the device fails. #### C. Control Interface (Pins/Headers) The device is controlled via a series of pins (usually a 10-pin or similar interface): * **VCC/GND:** Power supply. * **Control Signal:** A TTL (Transistor-Transistor Logic) signal that tells the switch to toggle between *Normal* and *Bypass* modes. * **Status Feedback:** Electronic sensors (often hall-effect or optical) that provide a return signal to the system to confirm the physical position of the switch. --- ### 3. Functional Logic States The FTS-2B-R/B operates in two primary electronic states: 1. **Normal State (Powered):** The electronic actuator is energized. The switch connects the Network Ports to the Local Device (Router/Switch). 2. **Bypass State (Unpowered/Fail):** The actuator is de-energized. The internal optics bypass the local device and connect the "Network In" directly to the "Network Out," preventing a network blackout. --- ### 4. Circuit Diagram Representation (Simplified) ```text [ Network In ] ----> [ Optical Switch ] ----> [ Network Out ] ^ | | v [ Local Device Port ] ``` *When the electronic control signal goes **LOW** or power is **LOST**, the Optical Switch closes the loop between Network In and Out.* ---