Abstract: Proposed is a secure real-time inter-process data exchange mechanism based on memory mapped files (MMF). A modified FIFO access to the data (“one head, multiple tails”) is provided by pointers residing in a MMF buffer. A process writes to a data area of the buffer using “head” pointer, and data are read by processes using “tail” pointers. Only one shared data block is accessible at any given time, thus achieving secure high-performance real-time data sharing data between processes without using OS-dependent thread-synchronization techniques. The invention is implemented as OS-specific dynamic libraries that form a platform-independent software layer which hides the implementation details from the programmer. Access to the libraries is provided by a simple and easy to use API, via a limited number of high-level functions, with syntax consistent across languages (C, C++, Pascal, MATLAB) and OS platforms (Windows, Linux, MacOSX).

Abstract: A multi-fiber in-line attenuator module configured for insertion in the fiber optic pathway of an optoelectronic network to provide a predetermined value of attenuation for all propagating modes in the pathway includes first and second multi-channel interface members each having a mating face, an interconnect face, and alignment holes and n-optical channels formed therethrough, a multi-fiber ribbon cable terminating in the interconnect face of each multi-channel interface member with the optical fibers thereof disposed in the n-optical channels, alignment pins disposed in the alignment holes of the first and second multi-channel interface members so that the n-optical channels of the first and second multi-channel interface members are optically aligned, a mating clip for retaining the first and second multi-channel interface members in mated combination, and an NDF (neutral density filter) film adhered to at least one of the mating faces of the first and second the multi-channel interface members, the adhere