Fiber connector types

September 18, 2023

Fiber Connector types include SC,LC,ST,ST,FC,MTP/MPO. A fiber connector is a mechanical device used to align and join two optical fibers, enabling the transmission of light signals between them.

SC Connector:

The SC connector, or Subscriber Connector, is one of widely used fiber connector types in telecommunications and networking. It features a square-shaped connector body with a push-pull mechanism for easy insertion and removal. Here are some key details about SC connectors:

  • Design: SC connectors have a rectangular shape with a 2.5mm ferrule. They are available in both simplex (one fiber) and duplex (two fibers) configurations.
  • Latch Mechanism: SC connectors use a push-pull mechanism that provides a secure and quick connection. The connector clicks into place when inserted and can be easily removed by pushing the latch.
  • Applications: SC fiber connector types are commonly used in various applications, including data centers, telecommunications, and local area networks (LANs).
  • Polishing Types: SC connectors can have different polishing types, including UPC (Ultra Physical Contact) and APC (Angled Physical Contact). UPC connectors are suitable for most applications, while APC connectors are preferred for applications requiring minimal back reflection, such as in some RF and CATV systems.
  • Cleaning: Proper cleaning of SC connectors is essential for maintaining signal quality. Cleaning tools and procedures are available to ensure a clean and reliable connection.
  • Compatibility: SC connectors are compatible with various fiber optic cable types, making them versatile for different network setups.

SC connectors are known for their reliability, ease of use, and widespread adoption in the industry, making them a popular choice for both single-mode and multimode fiber optic connections.

LC connector:

LC stands for Lucent Connector, is one of fiber connector types which commonly used in telecommunications and data networking. Here are some key details about LC connectors:

  • Size:LC connectors are small form-factor connectors, about half the size of SC connectors. This compact size makes them ideal for high-density installations where space is limited.
  • Latch Mechanism: LC connectors use a latch mechanism similar to that of RJ45
  • connectors in Ethernet cables. This latch provides a secure and easy-to-use connection.
  • Ferrule Size: LC connectors typically have a 1.25mm ferrule, which is smaller than the 2.5mm ferrule used in SC connectors.
  • Applications: LC connectors are widely used in various applications, including data centers, telecommunications networks, and high-speed internet connections.
  • Single-Mode and Multimode: LC fiber connector types are available in both single-mode and multimode versions, making them versatile for different fiber optic cable types.
  • Duplex Configuration: LC fiber connector types are commonly used in duplex configurations, allowing the transmission and reception of data over two fibers.
  • High Performance: LC connectors are known for their low insertion loss and high return loss, making them suitable for high-speed data transmission.

Overall, LC fiber connector types are a popular choice for modern fiber optic networks due to their small size, reliable performance, and compatibility with various applications and fiber types.

ST connectorST connector

ST fiber connector types, which stand for Straight Tip Connector, is also one of fiber connector types widely used in data networking and telecommunications. Here are some key details about ST connectors:

  • Design: ST connectors have a cylindrical shape with a bayonet-style coupling mechanism. They are known for their robust and secure connection.
  • Ferrule Size: ST connectors typically use a 2.5mm ceramic ferrule, which aligns and protects the fiber optic cable ends during connection.
  • Latch Mechanism: ST fiber connector types feature a twist-and-lock mechanism. To connect or disconnect, you simply twist the connector into place or release it by twisting in the opposite direction.
  • Applications: ST connectors were once very popular in networking applications, particularly in early Ethernet networks. While they have been largely replaced by smaller connectors like LC and SC in newer installations, ST connectors are still found in some legacy systems.
  • Single-Mode and Multimode: ST fiber connector types are available in both single-mode and multimode versions, making them suitable for various fiber optic cable types.
  • Durability: The robust design of ST connectors makes them durable and resistant to mechanical stress, making them suitable for harsh environments.

Overall, ST connectors have played a significant role in the history of fiber optic networking, and while they are less common in modern installations, they are still utilized in specific applications where their characteristics are advantageous.

FC connectorFC connector

The FC connector, which stands for Fiber Channel connector, is a type of fiber-optic connector designed for use in high-vibration environments. Here are some key details about FC connectors:

  • Design: FC connectors have a threaded body, which provides a secure and stable connection. This design is particularly suitable for applications with high vibrations.
  • Ferrule Size: FC connectors typically use a 2.5mm ceramic ferrule, which aligns and protects the fiber optic cable ends during connection.
  • Applications: FC fiber connector types are commonly used in data communication, telecommunications, measurement equipment, and single-mode laser systems. They were especially prevalent in earlier fiber optic networks.
  • Standardization: FC connectors have been standardized according to the TIA fiber optic connector intermateability standard EIA/TIA-604-4.
  • Less Common Today: While FC connectors were once widely used, they have become less common in modern installations. They have been largely replaced by connectors like SC and LC, which offer smaller form factors and are more suitable for high-density applications.

In summary, FC fiber connector types are known for their robust design and suitability for high-vibration environments. However, they are becoming less common in favor of more compact connectors in modern fiber optic networks.

MTP/MPO fiber connectorMTP /MPO connector

MTP (Multi-Fiber Push-On) and MPO (Multi-Fiber Push-On) fiber connectors are high-density optical connectors used in data centers and telecommunications networks for efficient and reliable fiber optic connections. Here are key points about MTP/MPO connectors:

  • High Density: MTP/MPO connectors are designed to accommodate multiple optical fibers in a single connector. They are available in various configurations, such as 12, 24, or 48 fibers in a single connector, making them ideal for applications requiring high-density connections.
  • Quick Connectivity: These connectors feature a push-on, pull-off design, allowing for quick and easy connections. This reduces installation time and minimizes the risk of errors during fiber optic cabling.
  • Applications: MTP/MPO connectors are commonly used in data centers for high-speed data transmission, such as 40G and 100G Ethernet, as well as in telecommunications networks and other high-density environments.
  • Polishing Types: They come in different polishing types, including PC (Physical Contact), APC (Angled Physical Contact), and UPC (Ultra Physical Contact), to suit various applications and optical requirements.
  • Polarity and Gender: MTP/MPO connectors have specific polarity and gender options to ensure proper alignment and connectivity in complex optical networks.
  • Modularity: MTP/MPO connectors can be used with MTP/MPO trunk cables and harnesses, allowing for easy scalability and flexibility in network design.

In summary, MTP/MPO fiber connector types are essential components for high-density and high-speed fiber connector types in modern data communication and telecommunications. Their versatility, quick connectivity, and support for various fiber counts make them a popular choice in network infrastructure.

Tony Lau is technical manager and co-founder at HOC. He loves writing about content optical fiber communications, specializes in fiber optic cables, FTTH turnkey solutions, ADSS cable, and ODN networks.

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