DESIGN HANDBOOK FOR FIBER OPTIC COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEMS

1.1 Purpose. The purpose of this handbook is to provide uniform Department of Defense
(DoD) guidelines for communication engineers, and installation, operation. and maintenance
personnel working with fiber optic communications systems. This handbook supports MILSTD-
188-111, Interoperability, and Performance Standards for Fiber Optic Communications
Systems. Emphasis is on the importance of the major technological advancements in
telecommunications, as well as networks and systems, rather than on components and hardware.
However, the text does deal with the major components of fiber optic systems, including
transmitters, receivers, fiber cable, and associated hardware. Further, it provides practical howto
guidance, including generalized real world examples on implementing the requirements in
MIL-STD-188-111.

1.2 Applicability. MIL-STD-188-111 is the fiber optic standard which sets the minimum
essential requirements for interoperability and performance for long-haul and tactical systems.
MIL-HDBK-415 is intended to support the MIL-STD-188-111 requirements with the data and
techniques to engineer a compliant fiber system.

1.3 Application guidance. The guidance contained herein provides those directly involved in
the design of fiber optic communications systems (FOCS), including engineers, acquisitions
personnel, communications specialists, and managers, with the information necessary to plan and
engineer fiber optic communications systems, using state-of-the-art materials and technologies
This handbook is for use by junior to intermediate technical people .who are not fiber optic
specialists, but do have a sound general technical background. This handbook may be used in
the DoD acquisition process in support of MIL-STD-188-111.

1.4 Suggestions for use. The main purpose of MIL-HDBK-415 is to explain how, to implement
the requirements described in MIL-STD-188-111. It is assumed that the users will range from
those having some basic knowledge of communications systems to senior fiber optic systems
engineers.