The decision
Design the electrical and optical paths together while checking each interface separately. A cable containing fiber does not by itself connect the aircraft's data equipment to the ground network.
Follow two paths through the same installation
In a power-and-fiber arrangement, conductors deliver electrical power and optical fiber carries data. The airborne power module handles the aircraft supply. The data path has its own endpoint connections and, where needed, conversion equipment.
Write down the complete path from the payload to the ground receiver or network. This exposes missing interfaces that would not appear in a cable-length or power-only enquiry.
| Path | Start and finish | Details to identify |
|---|---|---|
| Electrical | Ground station to airborne module and aircraft | Operating voltage, load, cable loss and connections |
| Optical | Airborne data equipment to ground data equipment | Fiber arrangement and optical interface requirements |
| Payload network | Camera, communications payload or other device to its receiver | Data interface and any required conversion |
| Mechanical | Airframe attachment through cable to reel | Cable route, handling requirements and rotating interfaces |
Begin with the actual data equipment
Send the device models and the interfaces available at each end. Describe the data that needs to travel over the link and the equipment that will receive it. Where a media converter or other interface device is required, include its own power demand in the airborne or ground equipment list.
If you already have a camera, network device or optical component, identify what you intend to retain. We can then review the missing interfaces alongside the power modules.
Keep cable and reel selection connected
The cable must suit both the electrical transmission and the optical arrangement. Discuss the required length and handling conditions with the complete reel in view. Cable routing, bend requirements and any rotating optical connection need to be reviewed as part of the installation.
For example, TP-T36 lists an FC fiber-optic adapter in its product information. That named interface is a starting point for an equipment discussion; the intended data devices and complete optical path still need to be specified.
Keep power selection specific to the aircraft
Adding fiber does not change the need to match ground output, arriving voltage, airborne input and aircraft output. Similarly, two airborne modules with the same nominal power can have different output voltages. Compare their individual specifications before selecting a candidate.
Use the module matching guide for the electrical path and the communications power guide when the payload is networking equipment.
Send one combined equipment brief
Include the aircraft, payload, ground receiver, required height, cable length and available ground supply. Add interface documents for equipment already selected. We can discuss a custom power-and-fiber configuration and identify the modules, cable and interface equipment in the proposed supply scope.
Listed power modules can be selected in Build; an unlisted fiber or endpoint requirement can be discussed directly with us.
