Types of fiber optic cable connectors

Types of fiber optic cable connectors

1.Classification by connector type

FC (Ferrule Connector)

Structure: metal thread fixing, ceramic ferrule, circular interface.

Features: high stability, strong vibration resistance, commonly used in telecommunications networks and test equipment.

Application: single-mode optical fiber, long-distance transmission (such as base stations, computer rooms).

 

SC (Subscriber Connector)

Structure: square plastic shell, push-pull plug-in, ceramic ferrule.

Features: convenient plug-in and pull-out, moderate size, low loss.

Application: data center, local area network (LAN), FTTH (fiber to the home).

 

ST (Straight Tip)

Structure: metal bayonet fixing (similar to BNC connector), circular interface.

Features: high mechanical strength, suitable for multimode optical fiber.

Application: industrial environment, campus network, monitoring system.

 

LC (Lucent Connector)

Structure: mini design, square shell, ceramic ferrule.

Features: small size, high density, suitable for high-density wiring.

Applications: data centers, switches, high-speed networks (such as 40G/100G).

 

MTP/MPO (Multi-fiber Termination Push-On)

Structure: multi-core integration (12/24/48 cores), rectangular ferrule, push-pull locking.

Features: high density, large capacity, support for parallel optical transmission.

Applications: data center backbone network, 5G fronthaul, supercomputing center.

 

2. Classification by end face grinding method

PC (Physical Contact)

End face: Spherical surface is slightly convex, and the contact point is small.

Features: Low reflection loss (-30dB), suitable for short-distance transmission.

 

UPC (Ultra Physical Contact)

End face: Ultra-precision spherical polishing, smoother.

Features: Lower reflection loss (-50dB), suitable for high-speed networks (such as GPON, 10G).

 

APC (Angled Physical Contact)

End face: 8° bevel polishing to reduce reflected light.

Features: Extremely low reflection loss (-60dB), used for CATV and long-distance single-mode transmission.