Choosing the right fiber connector can not only improve propagation efficiency and reduce loss, but also have an important impact on the stability and compatibility of the connection with external fiber optic networks and other equipment. So do you know what are the differences between the connectors we commonly use, and how to choose according to their characteristics? Next, we will take you to learn about the commonly used fiber optic connectors: SC, LC, MTP/MPO.
What is SC Fiber Optic Connector
History
The history of SC fiber optic connectors was developed by NTT Corporation of Japan in 1982. SC connectors were originally designed for FTTH, but they were gradually popularized and used on a large scale due to their small size and convenience.
Definition of SC Fiber Optic Connector
SC fiber optic connector, full name Subscriber Connector or Standard Connector, is a fiber optic connector type. The “SC” in its name is taken from the abbreviation of Square Connector, indicating that its shell shape is rectangular. The SC connector uses a 2.5mm ferrule and is a plug-in device, i.e., a snap-on square interface that does not need to be rotated to be secured.
What is an LC Fiber Optic Connector
History
The fiber LC connector was developed by Lucent Technologies (now CommScope, Inc.) and was originally known as the Lucent Connector. LC fiber connectors were originally designed to meet the needs of the telecommunications industry for small connectors and are half the size of SC interfaces. Later, it was precisely because of the pluggable and small characteristics of the LC interface that it became one of the most commonly used connectors in the optical fiber market.
Definition of LC Fiber Optic Connector
LC Fiber Optic Connector, the full name of Lucent Connector, is a miniaturized fiber optic connector. LC connectors are used in cabling system engineering, especially in scenarios where high-density cabling is required.
What is MTP/MPO Fiber Connector?
History
History of MPO Connectors
MPO (Multi-Fiber Push On) fiber optic connector was originally designed by NTT Corporation of Japan and launched as the first generation of multi-fiber connectors. Its main industrial standard is IEC-61754-7, the current national standard is YD/T1272.5-2009, and the American standard is EIA/TIA-604-5. MPO connectors were originally designed to meet the need for high-density and high-efficiency optical cable connections in high-speed, high-capacity optical communication systems. MPO’s fiber density is about five times that of SC fiber patch cords, and MPO connectors are becoming popular as the demand for multi-core high-density fiber patch cords in DWDM systems continues to grow.
History of MTP Connectors
MTP (Multi-fiber Termination Push-on) fiber optic connectors are actually a type of MPO connector, developed and trademarked by US Conec. MTP joints are optimized and innovated on the basis of MPO joints to improve their optical and mechanical properties.
Definition of MTP/MPO Fiber Connector
Definition of MPO Fiber Optic Connector
The MPO (Multi-fiber Push On) fiber optic connector, also known as a multi-fiber fiber connector, is a standardized interface that engineers design for high-density fiber optic connections. The multi-pin design and compact design of MPO connectors can meet the most demanding application scenarios.
Definition of MTP Fiber Optic Connector
MTP (Multi-Fiber Terminated Push-In Style) is an improved version of MPO with better alignment and the ability to handle smaller bend radii. It can often integrate 12, 24 or even more fibers in a small volume connector, saving cabinet space and improving cabling efficiency.
MTP vs MPO: Are MTP and MPO Fiber Optic Connectors the Same?
People frequently mention MTP and MPO connectors together, sparking curiosity about why despite their different definitions and histories. In fact, the main reason is that MTP meets all the professional standards of MPO connectors, and they can be interoperable in design, function and application scenarios. However, MPO fiber is still the most common fiber on the market, and MTP is less. That’s why many products and articles are described as “MTP/MPO”.
SC vs LC vs MPO: What are the Differences?
SC vs LC vs MTP/MPO: Appearance Structure
The SC connector has a blue rectangular shape and adopts a push-pull connection, which makes it easy to connect when using the SC connector and has a small chance of poor contact. The LC connector is smaller than the SC connector and has a blue appearance, and uses a modular jack (RJ) latching mechanism that allows for easy tooling and easy identification. MTP/MPO connectors are rectangular in appearance, with ferrule design, precise internal design, relatively large in size. But you need to pay attention to correctly match the connection of male and female when connecting during use.
SC vs LC vs MTP/MPO: Application Scenarios
People widely use SC connectors in routers. They are also widely used in optical fiber communication equipment, such as optical fiber transceivers and optical fiber switches. In addition, when data centers require stable and efficient transmission, SC connectors are also suitable.
Compared with SC fiber optic connectors, you may be familiar with LC connectors. Because LC connectors have an important use case – SFP optical module connection, you can choose LC simplex or LC duplex connectors according to your actual needs. In addition, LC connectors fit well with routers and people widely use them in high-power, low-loss network equipment.
MPO/MTP connectors are mainly used for high-density cabling in data centers. They are suitable for 40G/100G optical transceivers and above network cabling and can meet the requirements of high-speed transmission and data capacity. MPO/MTP connectors are versatile in a variety of cabling scenarios in racks or cabinets. People widely use them for short-distance direct connections, duplex fiber interconnections, and 400G direct connections.
SC vs LC vs MTP/MPO: Performance Characteristics
All three fiber optic connectors play a good role in the use process. The SC connector has strong compatibility and can connect to different optical fiber equipment. The LC connector is small in size, low in loss and easy to connect, and is suitable for high-density wiring. Although the MTP/MPO connector is relatively large in size. MTP/MPO connector supports the simultaneous connection of multiple transmission channels, has high-density connection capabilities, and greatly improves the network capacity.
SC vs LC vs MTP/MPO: Which One Should I Choose?
Which connector to choose depends on your actual needs. The application scenario determines the type of connector, with LC or MTP/MPO preferred in high-density environments. If you need higher performance, choose LC or MTP/MPO for high-quality transmission. Seeking ease of operation: SC or MTP/MPO. Cost budgeting is a key factor, with LC costs being lower and MTP/MPO being more cost-effective in high-density connections.
FAQs
Other Fiber Optic Connector Types?
In addition to the fiber optic connectors mentioned in this article, there are other less commonly used fiber optic connectors to choose from:
ST（Standard Telecommunications）Connector
ST connectors are suitable for both singlemode and multimode fibers and feature square sockets that are fastened by a mating pin gate without the need for rotation. People commonly use it in local area networks (LANs), data centers, and CATV networks.
FC（Ferrule Connector）Connector
FC fiber optic connectors are an early standard for single-mode fiber optic connectors. Manufacturers make the E2000 fiber optic connector with a metal threaded connection and a pin body of precision ceramic material. FC connectors are suitable for applications requiring high precision and high stability, such as laser communication and test equipment.
MT-RJ（Mechanical Transfer Registered Jack）Connector
The MT-RJ fiber optic connector is similar in form factor to the RJ45 telephone plug. It is used in multimode fiber and is commonly found in LAN connections.
E2000 Connector
Manufacturers equip the E2000 fiber optic connector with a protective cover to shield it from dust and moisture. It is easy to plug and unplug, and has excellent mechanical strength when inserting and unplugging. The E2000 connectors are suitable for demanding communication applications and the European market.
In addition, there are many fiber optic connectors in specific application scenarios, such as MU connectors, DIN connectors, SMA connectors, etc., which play a unique role in their respective application scenarios.
How to Choose Different Colors of Optical Fiber Connectors?
Specifically, single-mode fibers mostly use green connectors, while multimode fibers commonly use blue and white connectors, and yellow connectors may indicate single-mode fibers capable of long transmission distances. In addition, dedicated fiber connections may use purple connectors, while network device connections mostly use red connectors. However, it is important to note that color is not an absolute standard and may vary from manufacturer to manufacturer or application scenario.
What does Singlemode Multimode Mean?
Single-mode and multimode are two different types of optical fibers. Then, the primary distinction between them lies in how they carry the optical signal. For details, please click here for a detailed introduction.
Summary
SC, LC, MTP/MPO fittings are unique in their own way. You can choose the most suitable product for your different needs. If you still have any questions after reading this article, just feel free to contact us.
