In what way does an expanded beam connector provide an advantage in outdoor settings?

An expanded beam connector provides an advantage in outdoor settings primarily because it tolerates dust and dirt better than other types of connectors. The mechanism of the expanded beam connection—where the optical signal is spread out over a larger area—helps minimize the impact of contaminants such as dust and dirt that may enter the connection point. Unlike precision-fit connectors, which can be heavily affected by the presence of contaminants on the mating surfaces, expanded beam connectors can maintain signal integrity even when exposed to outdoor environmental conditions. This makes them particularly suitable for outdoor installations where exposure to elements is common.

The other options, while they may describe attributes or conveniences, do not specifically highlight the environmental resilience that is crucial for outdoor applications. For instance, compact design, the ability to connect multiple devices easily, and requiring no cleaning are not primary reasons for preference in harsh conditions where resilience to dust and dirt plays a more significant role.