Fiber optic connectors mechanically join different fiber cables. They feature designs that minimize signal loss and maximize data transmission speed and quality. Learn more about the different fiber connector types used in network settings.
Common Fiber Connector Types
There are many different types of fiber connectors. You must choose the right one to optimize network performance. While you may encounter some others, the following fiber optic connector types are the most commonly used for high-speed fiber networks.
Fiber Channel Connectors
FC connectors feature a threaded design that provides a stable connection for high-speed data transmission. They are also highly durable and can handle repeated connections and disconnections. Their reliability and durability make FC connectors a popular choice in data centers, storage area networks, and similar high-performance applications.
Lucent Fiber Connectors
LC connectors are compact with a locking mechanism. They use a 1.25 mm ferrule. They are ideal for data centers and other applications with limited physical space. Key features of LC connectors include:
- Compact size
- Latch-style lock for secure connections
- Low insertion loss
- Wide compatibility
You can purchase single-mode and multimode fiber patch cables with LC connectors for OM1, OM2, OM3, OM4, and OS2 cabling.
Straight Tip Fiber Connector
ST connectors are an early fiber connector type that is still widely used. It is easy to use thanks to a bayonet-style lock and sturdy 2.5mm ferrule. These also provide durability that makes this type of connector excellent for industrial applications. ST connectors are:
- Compatible with a wide range of equipment, including legacy networks
- Durable and able to handle multiple connections and disconnections
- Economical
ST fiber cable connectors work with single-mode and multimode fiber networks using OM1, OM2, OM3, OM4, and OS2 cabling.
Subscriber Connectors
SC connectors are among the most commonly used types of fiber connectors. They are excellent alternatives to the ST connector. It features a 2.5 mm ferrule and durable construction for multiple connections and disconnections. Other features include:
- Low insertion loss
- Push-pull locking mechanism
- Wide compatibility
You can use SC fiber connectors in both single-mode and multimode networks. They can accommodate OM1, OM2, OM3, OM4, and OS2 fiber cabling.
Multi-fiber Termination Push-on Connectors
These are specialty connectors designed to replace multiple single-strand fiber connector types. MTP connectors are ideal for high-density applications where space is critical. They have low insertion loss and a secure locking mechanism.
LC vs. SC Fiber Connector Types
LC and SC connectors are the most widely used fiber connector types. Although they share many similarities, they are often used in different applications. Comparing the two can help you choose which one is better suited for your needs.
Both LC and SC connectors have very low insertion loss, with typical rates below 0.5 dB. This helps preserve signals and data integrity. They are also both suitable for multimode and single-mode cable networks.
The SC connector has a push-pull latch mechanism and is cost-effective. It is generally capable of 1000 mating cycles. SC connectors are ideal for general use in low-bandwidth or short-distance telecommunications applications.
LC connectors use a smaller ferrule and latch-locking mechanism. They are generally more expensive with a lower number of potential mating cycles. However, they provide excellent performance for high-demand applications such as in server rooms, data centers, and enterprise networks.
Single-Mode vs. Multimode Fiber Connectors
There are two main types of fiber optic cables: Single-mode and multimode. Each requires a different type of fiber connector.
Features of Single-Mode Fiber Connectors
Single-mode fiber optics carry one band of light through a single strand, eliminating distortion from other signals that may be seen in multimode fiber steps. Because of this reduced interference, single-mode fiber is very effective for preserving bandwidth in long-distance transmission. Common connector types for single-mode fiber include Ultra-Physical Contact and Angled Physical Contact connectors.
The ferrules on single-mode fiber connectors are often ceramic. They have a smaller diameter than multimode connectors, typically around 9 microns. Single-mode connectors are also generally more expensive than their multimode counterparts.
Features of Multimode Fiber Connectors
Multimode fiber optic cables use large-diameter fiber cores to transmit multiple light streams simultaneously. This can cause some signal distortion as the streams reflect and disperse. However, multimode fiber is excellent for short-distance data transmission, such as within buildings or for campus-wide applications. Multimode fiber connectors are ideal for linking components in local area networks and data centers.
Multimode fiber connectors accommodate the larger cores of the corresponding optical fibers. They typically have a diameter between 50 and 62.5 microns. Learning about jacket colors for fiber cabling can help you determine the correct size connectors for your multimode applications. They support lower bandwidth compared to single-mode connectors and are generally less expensive.
Why Choosing the Right Fiber Optic Connector Types Is Important
Choosing the right fiber connector types can help maximize signal transmission and preserve data quality. This is especially true over long-distance lines.
Fiber optic cables are made up of thin glass strands that can transmit light. The glass fiber core is encased in protective cladding and a jacket. This unique construction allows them to carry data as light signals with minimal signal loss.
Each connector within a network must meet the system requirements. A weak or poorly made one can cause signal loss that interferes with performance. For businesses managing large-scale fiber networks, choosing high-quality fiber connectors prevents costly downtime and ensures seamless data transmission.
Tips for Choosing the Right Fiber Connector Types
When choosing connectors, the first step is to choose the fiber connector types that match your hardware and fiber cabling. Some other tips that will help you find appropriate and reliable equipment include:
- Choose connectors designed to accommodate the needed bandwidth
- Look for connectors that are easy to use
- Match the connector to the application
- Purchase only high-quality fiber connectors to help ensure long-term performance
Following these guidelines can help you choose the correct types of fiber connectors for your system.
Tier-One Fiber Connector Types for Every Application
Equal Optics is a leading supplier of tier-one network components. We carry a wide range of fiber patch cables using various fiber connector types, including FC to FC, LC to FC, LC to LC, and LC to SC. Contact us to find the right components for your fiber network.
