Interface Types for Fiber Optic Patch Cords

Types of Fiber Optic Patch Cords

Fiber optic patch cords refer to fiber optics with connectors on both ends. Their function is to connect devices to fiber optic wiring links and are generally used to connect optical terminals and terminal boxes. A pigtail, on the other hand, is a fiber optic with a connector on only one end and can be made from a fiber optic patch cord.

Fiber optic patch cord can be classified into single-mode fiber optic patch cords and multimode fiber optic patch cords based on the type of fiber optics used. Generally, single-mode fiber optic patch cords have a longer transmission distance, while multimode fiber optic patch cords have a shorter transmission distance.

Commonly used interface types for fiber optic patch cords include FC, SC, ST, PC, APC, and LC. FC connectors are commonly used for distribution frames, while SC connectors are commonly used for routers and switches. There are also various other forms of fiber optic interface types, such as MTRJ, MPO, MU, SMA, FDDI, E2000, and D4.

The meanings of several common fiber optic patch cord interface types are as follows:

• FC: Circular with screw thread;

• ST: Card-type circular;

• SC: Card-type square;

• PC: Micro spherical grinding and polishing;

• APC: 8-degree angled with micro spherical grinding and polishing.

The interface type of fiber optic patch cords is an important consideration for users when purchasing. Understanding the meanings of various fiber optic patch cord interface types can help users find the desired products more quickly.

Fiber Optic Patch Cord Connectors

Fiber optic patch cord connectors are devices used for detachable (movable) connections between fiber optics. They precisely align the two end faces of the fiber optics to maximize the coupling of the optical energy output from the transmitting fiber optic into the receiving fiber optic, and minimize the impact on the system caused by its intervention in the optical link. This is the basic requirement of fiber optic connectors.

To a certain extent, fiber optic patch cord connectors also affect the reliability and performance of fiber optic transmission systems.

Fiber optic patch cord connectors are classified into single-mode and multimode connectors for commonly used silica-based fiber optics, as well as connectors for other types of fiber optics that use materials such as plastic as the transmission medium. They can also be classified by connector structure, such as FC, SC, ST, LC, D4, DIN, MU, MT, and various other forms.

Among them, ST connectors are commonly used for wiring equipment ends, such as fiber optic distribution frames and fiber optic modules, while SC and MT connectors are commonly used for network equipment ends.

Based on the shape of the fiber optic end face, there are FC, PC (including SPC or UPC), and APC connectors. They can also be classified based on the number of fiber cores, such as single-core and multi-core (such as MT-RJ). Fiber optic patch cord connectors are widely used and available in a variety of types.