A cable and receptacle system featuring integrated optical and electrical components is designed to reduce the number of connectors required in medical devices. The MediSpec hybrid circular mechanical transfer (MT) system, from Molex Inc, Lisle, IL, has a multifunctional connector that includes three configurable MT ferrule-compatible ports. Combining copper and fiber media, these ports carry electrical power and provide low-speed copper signaling and optical data or video signals.

Created to reduce manufacturing costs and complexity for the end-user, this system combines the optical ferrules and electrical contacts in one interface to streamline design and simplify installation. It can be used in such applications as interventional energy lasers, picture archival communications, diagnostic imaging, and optical coherence tomography. Additionally, it can be used for guidance, illumination, and navigation applications for robotic, orthopedic, and neurosurgical devices.

Two connector housing options are offered: metal housings enable the connector to withstand harsh environments and EMI; medical-grade polymer housings are lightweight and suited for use in more-sensitive applications, such as MRI and PET scans. Also available is an optional expanded beam MT ferrule that is designed to help reduce optical loss due to contamination, protect fibers from debris or scratching, and provide long-term connection reliability.