SYT Technologies uses Rosenberger OSI’s Heavy Duty solutions to boost the reliability of its optronic systems

Robust fiber-optic connectivity for critical applications: feedback on the integration of Heavy Duty 600 technology

SYT Technologies is an acknowledged expert in the design and manufacture of high-performance optronic systems. The company specializes in perimeter surveillance, identification and long-range reconnaissance systems, as well as anti-drone warfare systems, and its solutions are intended for use in tough, critical environments.

The solution used since 2024

SYT Technologies has been using Heavy Duty 600 connectivity solutions (robust receptacles and fiber-optic cables) from Rosenberger OSI since 2024. This choice safeguards the vital link between the optronic systems (and in particular the anti-drone warfare towers) and the control and monitoring infrastructures.

The company opted for this technology in order to respond to severe environmental constraints: the systems are deployed outdoors in areas where access is problematic and the cleanliness of the connections cannot be guaranteed using conventional methods.

Optical fibers play a vital role in transporting high flows over long distances. The Heavy Duty connector, which is able to handle six independent fibers, offers a strategic advantage by making it possible to assign each fiber to distinct flows (security, QoS, video, control), guaranteeing that the individual networks are kept entirely separate from one another.

Description of the system

The solution is used in a very-long-range optronic surveillance system This multipurpose system addresses a number of different critical use cases: the surveillance of sensitive perimeters, vehicle detection and identification, as well as drone detection (anti-drone warfare).

Aims and requirements of the project

The most important factor leading to the implementation of the solution was its robust design. SYT was looking for a fiber cabling solution capable of withstanding hostile environments (outdoor, non-sterile, presence of humidity, dust and temperature fluctuations).

The use of the new solution has made it possible to achieve numerous objectives:

Simplified deployment: reduced complexity for field operators.
Greater operational reliability: minimized risk of contamination of fibers, which would otherwise lead to malfunctions.
Optimized MOC (Maintenance in Operational Condition): reduced repair and maintenance times and security-critical system downtimes.

Beyond the product itself, it was consultation-oriented approach that made the difference. Rosenberger OSI’s teams listened to us and were able to understand our specific operational problems, enabling them to propose a technical solution that responded precisely to our need for reliability” - confirms Laurent Hartanerot, onboard software engineer at SYT Technologies.

The defined technical requirements related to perfect ingress protection (IP67/68) after the system has been connected or disconnected, resistance to impacts and vibrations, and the ability to continue to deliver high optical performance without any complex cleaning activities in the field. Similarly, users needed quick and easy handling capabilities (“Plug & Play”), possibly involving system operation while wearing gloves and not requiring any special tools in order to establish connections.

Decision process

Initially, SYT Technologies used Rosenberger OSI’s QRMC technology. Even though this is a compact, economically attractive solution, it was found that the more robust design and lower maintenance requirements of the Heavy Duty 600 solution meant that it was more suitable for the theaters of operation envisaged by its customers.

The commissioning phase - work steps involved in switching over to the new solution

To adopt this technology, it was necessary to call on our Design Office to redesign the system’s mechanical interfaces in order to integrate the new Heavy Duty bases, while still guaranteeing the integrity of the chassis.

The process took a total of approximately 12 months. This period was necessary in order to qualify the solution and guarantee that it could be used successfully in the customer’s deployment environment.

The greatest challenge encountered during commissioning related to mechanical integration (weight and volume). Since the system was for outdoor use, it was essential that the addition of these new connection capabilities did not compromise the hermetic sealing of the tower. Water penetration would irreparably damage the critical optical sensors. Moreover, any system non-availability would result in a major security risk for the end customer and it was therefore necessary to exclude any possibility of error.

The SYT Technologies Design Office and Quality Department were both involved in the commissioning of the solution.

Thanks to Heavy Duty 600 technology, we can guarantee reliable performance and uninterrupted operation even in the most demanding environments. Our consultation-oriented approach and technical expertise allow us to develop concrete solutions to our partners’ critical needs,” concludes Bruno Demouron, Sales Manager of Rosenberger OSI France.

Short interview about the solution with Laurent Hartanerot, embedded software engineer at SYT Technologies

Were the requirements fulfilled? Is there any value added?

Yes, all the conducted qualification tests and trials have been conclusively positive; yes for the ease of MOC; no for weight, volume and price.
The shortcomings of the previous technology in terms of reliability have all been eliminated, thereby safeguarding the overall operation of the system.

What practical experience was gained from implementing the new solution?

We have observed that in-the-field assembly and disassembly operations have been greatly simplified. This reduces the stress experienced by operators during tactical deployments.

What improvements are there compared to the old solution?

Greater resilience to outdoor conditions.

Given the success of this operation, it is clear that Rosenberger OSI’s Heavy Duty 600 solution is the one that best caters for our customer environment, and it will be one of our standard responses in sensitive projects both now and in the future,” explains Laurent Hartarenot.