DIY Optical Fiber Sync Cable Connectors
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Bill of Materials
Description
Make your own optical fiber sync cables! All you need are these printed connectors, some optical fiber, and a few M2 nuts and bolts.
[Update April 2025]
Replaced the original models with the latest refined design. Use M2 screws only, easier to print, easy to assemble.
You will need some 2mm Optical Fiber. I have used both 613 multi-core fiber cables and cheap TosLink cables. The design assumes 2.2mm OD for the cables. Toslink cables are cheaply available from Amazon or other vendors worldwide. A better and more durable choice is the 613 mulit-core fiber. It's brighter and will bend more without breaking. In the USA a good source is:
Industrial Fiber Optics, MCQ-1500-22 613-core 1.5 mm Fused Multi-core Simplex Cable,2.2 mm OD Polyethylene Jacket
MCQ-1500-22 613-core Fused Multi-core Simplex Cable, Polyethylene Jacket
These connectors will work well with Nauticam or other housings with Inon-style ports. Most Strobes also use Inon-style ports. Tested strobes include all Retra models, Inon models, S&S models, Backscatter MF-1, MF-2, and HF-1. Ikelite's optical adapters as well.
This design contains two styles of connectors: A 90deg elbow and 180deg straight connectors. The elbow part is printed with PETG. PLA is not advised for underwater use. Over time it will swell and crack. The connector tips are printed with TPU 95a. These parts must be soft rubber, so no material substitutes are possible.
The 90deg Elbow part snaps together and is secured with two M2 6mm screws. The TPU connector and strain relief parts fit in the groves of the elbow. Thread the optical fiber through the TPU parts and align them into the elbow before screwing them together. Friction alone will keep the cables in place, no glue is needed.
Use the connectors in combinations that work for your camera rig. I like a 90deg connector on the top of my Nauticam housing and a 180deg connector on an Inon or Backscatter strobe. With a Retra strobe a 90deg connector will work better.
I have found these connectors to work well and provide a firm connection. They have been tested on hundreds of dives and never had a failure.
License
You shall not share, sub-license, sell, rent, host, transfer, or distribute in any way the digital or 3D printed versions of this object, nor any other derivative work of this object in its digital or physical format (including - but not limited to - remixes of this object, and hosting on other digital platforms). The objects may not be used without permission in any way whatsoever in which you charge money, or collect fees.
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