Photovoltaic power converters transform optical power into electrical power, which is inherently immune to RF, EMI, high voltage, and lightning effects. Capable of powering electronic circuitry directly over optical fiber in a wide variety of applications, this technology has been validated in industries such as electric power, communications, remote sensing and aerospace. From no more than a laboratory curiosity less than fifteen years ago, power-over-fiber, or photonic power, has established itself in thousands of industrial operations worldwide. Optical energy for pre-amplifiers or lowpower transmitters as well as switches and relays can be efficiently delivered through noise immune and non-conductive optical fiber. These advantages are also readily available for safe and arm applications since optical fiber is immune to electrical noise, magnetic fields and conduction of unexpected electrical currents. Since it is made from glass, a dielectric fiber is impervious to electromagnetic interference. High optical power is readily delivered through fiber, and conversion of optical to electrical energy at the remote site with efficient photovoltaic converters is routine.
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