Single Mode Fiber Patch Cables

Referred to as the "square connector", the SC has a push-pull coupling lock with a spring loaded ferrule. It was standardized into the telecom specs TIA-568-A and slowly grew in popularity because of its excellent performance. It is commonly used datacom/telecom point to point communication.

This is also classified by its "ferrule polish" as an Ultra Physical Contact (UPC) Connector. This is regarding the connection point/shape of the ferrule tip. The tip is convex and an extended polishing method before attachment. The ends butt up against one another on a perpendicular plane. The main issue with the design is the tendency for back reflection with poor cleaving and repeat matings.

The straight tip connector is commonly used in Datacom applications and precise measuring equipment. The connector uses a bayonet fitment (screw into place) as a locking mechanism. This is also commonly used in multimode applications. Due to the complexity of installation and manufacturing, the use of these have declined in the past decade. In retrofits, the new more robust LC is usually used to replace this connector.

This is also classified by its "ferrule polish" as an Angled Physical Contact (APC) Connector. This is identified by the "Green" color of the connector and is regarding the connection point/shape of the ferrule tip. The tip is a convex angle of 8*, that was the solution to degradation of performance in UPC connectors after repeat mating/unmating. This is commonly used in radio applications where there is high sensitivity to changes in signal. The biggest draw back of the APC connector is that it is not compatible with the three other kinds of Ferrule designs.

The Lucent Connector, named after it's inventor is the most common fiber patch cable connector currently in use. It is designed for compatibility with Small Form-Factor Pluggable Transceivers (SFP) in high density connections. This is a single fiber connector, that is designed for fixing into a Simplex Transceiver and has a locking mechanism at the top of the connector. The Ferrule is Ceramic and has a diameter of 1.25mm. Since the foot print of this connector is about half that of its predecessor (SC), it has become very popular in high density data patch applications.

This is also classified by its "ferrule polish" as an Angled Physical Contact (APC) Connector. This is identified by the "Green" color of the connector and is regarding the connection point/shape of the ferrule tip. The tip is a convex angle of 8*, that was the solution to degradation of performance in UPC connectors after repeat mating/unmating. This is commonly used in radio applications where there is high sensitivity to changes in signal. The biggest draw back of the APC connector is that it is not compatible with the three other kinds of ferrule designs.

The Ultra Physical Contact (UPC) Connector is a connection tip design for the Ferrule of the connector. The tip narrows, utilizing an extended polishing method which creates a finer fiber surface finish than Flat Connectors (not narrowed tip). This effectively provides a more reliable signal for digital TV and systems, where the UPC connector currently dominates the market. The design is said to have diminishing results after repeat mating and unmating of the ferrule tip. This repeat usage will increase the back reflection, lowering the quality of signal.

The Angled Physical Contact (APC) Connector is a connection tip design for the Ferrule of the Connector. The tip narrows similar to the UPC, however the connection point is angled. This was in response to the field studies of the UPC "back reflection" increasing after repeat mating and un-mating of the connector. The APC has a slight 8* angle to the end-face which creates a tighter connection and smaller end-face radii. Due to the APC's superior performance in return losses, it is most commonly used in analogue applications where the equipment is much more sensitive to changes in signal. These include Radio FrequencyEquipment and Highly Sensitive Test Equipment.

Short Wavelength Division Multiplexing (SWDM) is regarded as one of the most interesting, and important advancements to date in Fiber Optics. The technology was conceived in response to the rapid increase in data transmition needs, and the limitations of Multimode Fiber. It effectively turns one channel of fiber into as much as 40 channels. Data is sent in individual rays of light, which are then "MUX"ed into a single beam of light that travels the length of the fiber. Think of "MUX"ing as shinning a light into a prism, but the opposite effect. Once the data reaches it's destination, it is then "DE-MUX"ed where it is separated back into the individual channels of light.

The second designation for single mode fiber, which is only compliant with ITU-T G.652C/D. OS2 is constructed with loose tube design, commonly usd in street, underground burial, outdoor applications, etc. The maximum attenuation is 0.4db/km and maximum speed is 10Gb. Due to the fact OM2 can transmit farther than OM1(10, it is generally more expensive than OM1.