Patch Cord and its Types.

A patch cord is a flexible cable that connects devices in networking, telecom, or fiber optic setups. It’s used to link things like computers, switches, and patch panels, making sure data flows smoothly and reliably. Patch cords come in different types, like single-mode or multimode, and have various connectors like LC, SC, FC, MTP/MPO and ST length like (1to 20)meter to fit different needs. They’re essential for keeping connections organized and working efficiently, whether at home or in a business.

Types of fiber optic connectors:

A fiber optic connector is a device used to join optical fibers in a network, allowing signals to pass between them. It provides a secure, precise connection, ensuring minimal signal loss and high performance. Fiber optic connectors come in various designs, such as SC, LC, ST, MTP/MPO and FC, each with different shapes, sizes, and locking mechanisms suited to specific applications. They are essential for building efficient, high-speed communication networks, whether for internet, telecom, or data center systems.

Types of fiber optic connectors:

a.      SC (Subscriber Connector): A square-shaped connector that is easy to use with a push-pull mechanism. Common in network applications.

 

b.     LC (Lucent Connector): A smaller, compact connector ideal for high-density networking.

 

c.      FC (Ferrule Connector): A round connector with a screw-on mechanism, often used in industrial settings.

 

d.     ST (Straight Tip): A bayonet-style connector commonly used in legacy systems and early fiber optic networks.

 

e.      MTP/MPO Connector:
High-density connectors designed for multi-fiber cables, often used in data centers for faster deployment and high-bandwidth applications.

 

Types of patch cords:

These patch cords can be either single-mode or multimode, depending on the application. 

A.  SC Patch Cords:

§  SC UPC to SC UPC

§  SC APC to SC APC

§  SC UPC to SC APC

 

B.  LC Patch Cords:

§  LC UPC to LC UPC

§  LC APC to LC APC  

§  LC UPC to LC APC

C.  ST Patch Cords:

§  ST UPC to ST UPC

§  ST APC to ST APC

§  ST UPC to ST APC

D.  FC Patch Cords:

§  FC UPC to FC UPC

§  FC APC to FC APC

§  FC UPC to FC APC

E.  SC to LC Patch Cords:

§  SC to LC (APC & UPC)

§  SC to FC (APC & UPC)

§  SC to ST (APC & UPC)

 

F.   LC to FC Patch Cords

§  LC to FC (APC & UPC)

§  LC to ST (APC & UPC)

 

G. FC to ST Patch Cords

§  FC to ST (APC & UPC)

H. MPO/MTP Patch Cords:

§  MPO to MPO (12 pin) and (8 pin)

 

Special Variations:

§  Armored Patch Cords (Available in SC, LC, ST, FC, APC/UPC)

§  Duplex Patch Cords (Two fibers for bidirectional communication, available in SC, LC, ST, FC, APC/UPC)

§  Simplex Patch Cords (Single fiber, available in SC, LC, ST, FC, APC/UPC)