Abstract: Polishing machines, fixtures and methods for polishing one or more optical fibers upon distinct wear paths are provided. For example, in some embodiments a polishing fixture is provided with a number of ports for fixing optical fibers. The ports may be positioned within the fixture to follow a number of distinct wear paths when the fixture is moved relative to a platen retaining an abrasive film. In some embodiments, the ports may have an angular separation or be positioned at one or more radial distances in order to provide distinct wear paths on the abrasive film.

Abstract: An optical polishing fixture for securing one or more optical connectors can include a fixture base having a connector slot for receiving an optical connector and a clamping assembly mounted to the fixture base proximate the connector slot. The connector slot can be defined by at least one side wall defining a side wall plane and the clamping assembly can include a clamp pad moveable relative to the fixture base between a clamping position and a loading position. The clamp pad may move relative to the fixture base at an angle of less than 45 degrees relative to one of (i) a top surface of the fixture base, (ii) a plane perpendicular the side wall plane, or (iii) a plane defined by a portion of the fixture base top surface proximate to the connector slot.