Fiber Optic Patch Cord Types
Mar 15, 2025
Leave a message
Fiber optic patch cords, as one of the fundamental components of optical network cabling, are widely used in the construction of fiber optic links. Today, manufacturers have introduced various fiber optic patch cord types tailored to different application scenarios, such as MPO/LC/SC/FC/ST patch cords, simplex/duplex patch cords, and single-mode/multimode patch cords. Each type has distinct features and serves unique purposes. Below is a detailed introduction to commonly used fiber optic patch cord types to help users choose and set up their networks.
1. Classify fiber optic patch cord types by Fiber Optic Connector Type
Based on the type of connectors, fiber optic patch cords can be classified into MPO/MTP/LC/SC/FC/ST/MTRJ/MU/E2000/DIN patch cords. Although these types share similar components (consisting of connectors and optical cables) and identical functionalities, differences in their properties and performance result in varied application scenarios.
1.1 LC Fiber Optic Patch Cord
Featuring an LC connector with a 1.25mm ferrule diameter, LC fiber optic patch cords are compact and ideal for high-density cabling. They are widely used in server rooms and data centers. To meet the demands for high density and high performance in modern data centers, many suppliers have introduced advanced LC patch cords, such as ultra-low insertion loss LC patch cords and duplex LC patch cords within a single cable.
Ultra-Low Insertion Loss LC Patch Cord: Compared to conventional LC patch cords (with typical insertion loss around 0.75dB), ultra-low insertion loss LC patch cords use LL technology to reduce insertion loss to as low as 0.12dB, making them ideal for long-distance signal transmission.
Duplex LC Patch Cord within a Single Cable: This type uses specially designed LC uniboot connectors that allow bidirectional signal transmission within a single fiber cable. It provides enhanced flexibility for high-density cabling. Compared with standard LC patch cords, it improves space utilization by 50%, saving time and costs while simplifying cabling-particularly advantageous for spaces with limited room.
Additionally, short-tail boot LC patch cords feature a 12mm short-tail boot design that reduces connector length by 30%, making cabling more flexible compared with regular LC patch cords. They are well-suited for tight spaces like the Main Distribution Area (MDA) and Equipment Distribution Area (EDA). When space is limited, short-tail boot LC patch cords offer an excellent solution.
1.2 SC Fiber Optic Patch Cord
SC fiber optic patch cords feature an SC connector with a ferrule diameter of 2.5mm-double the size of an LC connector-and are often referred to as large square-shaped connectors. These plug-and-play connectors adopt a push-pull structure with excellent performance, making them highly suitable for telecommunications and data network systems including point-to-point passive optical networks.
1.3 MPO/MTP Fiber Optic Patch Cord
MPO/MTP fiber optic patch cords are among the most common options in current high-speed data communication systems such as 40G/100G direct connections and interconnections. These multi-fiber connectors can accommodate between 6 to 144 fibers-the largest capacity among all types available today. MPO/MTP patch cords consist of optical fibers enclosed in jackets alongside coupling components, metal rings, pins (PIN needles), dust caps, etc., and are further categorized into polarity A/B/C male/female types based on differences in fiber core arrangement positions and pin configurations. These distinctions affect their applications; thus, choosing the right MPO/MTP cord depends on specific link requirements.
1.4 FC Fiber Optic Patch Cord
FC fiber optic patch cords were the first to use ceramic ferrule connectors. Unlike push-pull designs seen in LC or SC connectors, FC connectors utilize nickel-plated or stainless steel spiral designs requiring threaded clamps during installation-a process that is more complex but ensures secure connections. While once commonly used for OTDR instrument connections and telecom/data networks, their market share has declined due to advancements in optical network technologies and newer alternatives like LC and SC connectors.
1.5 ST Fiber Optic Patch Cord
ST fiber optic patch cords were developed by AT&T following FC designs and feature spring-loaded ceramic ferrules (with a diameter of 2.5mm) using bayonet-style connectors with insertion losses around 0.25dB. These are suitable for both long-distance and short-distance applications like campus networks or enterprise networks; however, their market share has seen a steady decline over recent years.
The above five types represent the most common fiber optic patch cord categories today, each differing in connector style and usage prevalence. Below are four additional types less frequently used in modern optical networks:
MTRJ Fiber Optic Patch Cord: MTRJ connectors are made from precision-molded plastic materials; they come in male or female versions depending on pin configurations.
MU Fiber Optic Patch Cord: Similar to SC connectors but featuring a compact design with self-retention mechanisms and ferrules measuring 1.25mm in diameter-ideal for high-density installations like DWDM networks.
DIN Fiber Optic Patch Cord: DIN connectors resemble FC connectors but include internal metal structures equipped with spring mechanisms that control pressure-offering higher mechanical precision and lower loss.
E2000 Fiber Optic Patch Cord: E2000 connectors use push-pull mechanisms equipped with automatic metal shutters for laser beam protection; their one-piece design allows quick terminal connections.
1.6 Introduction to 8 Common Fiber Optic Connectors
Fiber optic connectors are available in numerous types. Among the most widely used are SC (popular across industries), FC (common in Asia), ST (with a connection style resembling standard coaxial cables), and LC (notable for its compact design). In addition to these four types, this article introduces four more fiber optic connectors: E2000/E2000PS, commonly used in Europe; MU, widely employed in Japan; MTRJ, which features two pins; and MPO, best suited for high-density data center environments. These are presented in a list format along with their English full names to provide an initial understanding of the specifications, connection methods, common pairings, applications, and popularity of each connector type, making them easier to remember.
Please note that the insertion loss values and mating cycles mentioned here are provided for reference purposes only. These values may vary depending on the quality of fiber optic cables produced by different manufacturers. Scratches or dirt on the connectors can also impact their performance. To ensure optimal transmission distance and signal quality, it is recommended to select high-quality fiber optic cables and use fiber optic testing instruments along with cleaning tools for connectors. The current fiber optic networking industry has developed various testing instruments and tools for verification purposes. Examples include the SMARTFiber Pro optical power meter (capable of measuring wavelengths), OPTISource handheld stabilized light sources (for both multimode and single-mode applications across four wavelengths), Fiber Checker Pro II red light pen, and cleaning tools designed for various connector types. These tools are extensively used for signal measurement and verification.
1.6.1 SC (Square Connector) Connectors
Fiber Optic Connector Standards: IEC61754-4, NTT-SC, CECC86265
Ferrule Diameter: 1.25mm (metal/ceramic)
Insertion Loss: MM 0.2dB / SM 0.2dB
Mating Cycles: Approximately 1,000–2,000 times
Locking Mechanism: Push/Pull
Variants: Multimode/Single-mode PC and APC
Applications: CATV (cable television), LAN (local area network), WAN (wide area network), measurement systems, medical devices, industrial applications
Number of Ferrules: Single ferrule
Usage Trends: Commonly used globally
1.6.2 FC (Ferrule Connector) Connectors
Fiber Optic Connector Standards: CECC86115, IEC61754-13, NTT-FC
Ferrule Diameter: 2.5mm (metal/ceramic)
Insertion Loss: MM 0.15dB / SM 0.2dB
Mating Cycles: Approximately 1,000 times
Locking Mechanism: Screw-on rotation
Variants: Multimode/Single-mode PC and APC
Applications: LAN / WAN networks
Number of Ferrules: Single ferrule
Usage Trends: Rarely used in Europe but commonly found in Asia
1.6.3 ST (Straight Tip/Bayonet Fiber Optic Connector) Connectors
Fiber Optic Connector Standards: CECC86120 and IEC61754-2 for single-mode and multimode (PC).
Ferrule Diameter: 2.5mm (metal/ceramic)
Insertion Loss: MM 0.2dB / SM 0.15dB
Mating Cycles: Approximately 1,000–2,000 times
Locking Mechanism: Anti-misconnection protection device with screw-on rotation locking mechanism
Variants: Multimode/POF/single-mode typically UPC variants
Applications: LAN / WAN networks
Number of Ferrules: Single ferrule
Usage Trends: Increasingly adopted worldwide due to its reliable locking mechanism and compatibility with various systems
1.6.4 E2000/E2000PS Connectors
Fiber Optic Connector Standards: IEC61754-15 and CECC86275
Ferrule Diameter: 2.5mm (ceramic/metal)
Insertion Loss: MM 0.15dB / SM 0.2dB
Mating Cycles: Approximately 1,000 times
Locking Mechanism: Push/Pull
Variants: Multimode/Single-mode PC and APC
Applications: LAN / WAN networks
Number of Ferrules: Single ferrule
Usage Trends: Commonly used in Germany
1.6.5 LC (Lucent Connector / Local Connector)
Employs "Small Form Factor" (SFF) compact packaging technology, marking it as a next-generation connector. Designed with miniaturization, it enhances the density of fiber optic connectors within fiber distribution frames.
Fiber optic connector standards: IEC61754-20 fiber optic standard, TIA604-10-A
Ceramic/metal ferrule diameter: 1.25mm
Insertion loss: MM: 0.2dB / SM: 0.12dB
Number of mating cycles: About 500 to 1000 cycles
Locking mechanism: Push/pull locking mechanism
Versions: Multi-mode/single-mode PC and APC
Applications: LAN, WAN
Number of ferrules: Single ferrule
Widely utilized across various industries worldwide
Fiber optic connector standards: IEC61754-20 fiber optic standard, TIA604-10-A
Ceramic/metal ferrule diameter: 1.25mm
Insertion loss: MM: 0.2dB / SM: 0.12dB
Number of mating cycles: About 500 to 1000 cycles
Locking mechanism: Push/pull locking mechanism
Versions: Multi-mode/single-mode PC and APC
Applications: LAN, WAN
Number of ferrules: Single ferrule
Widely utilized across various industries worldwide
1.6.6 MU (Miniature unit Coupling) Connector
Employs "Small Form Factor" (SFF) compact packaging technology, marking it as a next-generation connector. Developed by NTT as the smallest single-fiber connector based on the SC-type design, it enables high-density installation of fiber optic connectors within fiber distribution frames.
Ferrule diameter: 1.25mm ceramic
Fiber optic connector standards: IEC61754-6 fiber optic standard
Insertion loss: MM: 0.15dB / SM: 0.2dB
Number of mating cycles: About 500 to 1000 cycles
Locking mechanism: Push/pull locking mechanism
Versions: Multi-mode/single-mode PC and APC
Applications: LAN
Number of ferrules: Single ferrule
Primarily used in Japan but less common internationally
Ferrule diameter: 1.25mm ceramic
Fiber optic connector standards: IEC61754-6 fiber optic standard
Insertion loss: MM: 0.15dB / SM: 0.2dB
Number of mating cycles: About 500 to 1000 cycles
Locking mechanism: Push/pull locking mechanism
Versions: Multi-mode/single-mode PC and APC
Applications: LAN
Number of ferrules: Single ferrule
Primarily used in Japan but less common internationally
1.6.7 MTRJ (Multi Transmit-Receive Joint) Connector
The name MT-RJ comes from combining features of MT-style and RJ-style connectors. A key characteristic of MT-RJ is its ability to connect two optical fibers; in other words, two optical fibers are contained within one MT-RJ fiber optic connector. Additionally, MT-RJ is divided into male patch cables and female patch cables, where male patch cables are distinguished by having two pins at each connector end.
Fiber optic connector standards: ANSI/TIA/EIA-604-12, ISO/IEC 11801, ANSI/TIA/EIA–568-B fiber optic standards
Ferrule diameter: 1.25mm plastic
Insertion loss: MM: 0.2dB / SM: 0.4dB
Number of mating cycles: About 500 cycles
Locking mechanism: Plug-and-play RJ locking system
Versions: Multi-mode/single-mode
Applications: LAN
Number of ferrules: Dual ferrules (compared to single ferrules used in other connectors)
Commonly used in Europe
Fiber optic connector standards: ANSI/TIA/EIA-604-12, ISO/IEC 11801, ANSI/TIA/EIA–568-B fiber optic standards
Ferrule diameter: 1.25mm plastic
Insertion loss: MM: 0.2dB / SM: 0.4dB
Number of mating cycles: About 500 cycles
Locking mechanism: Plug-and-play RJ locking system
Versions: Multi-mode/single-mode
Applications: LAN
Number of ferrules: Dual ferrules (compared to single ferrules used in other connectors)
Commonly used in Europe
1.6.8 MPO (Multi Push On) Connector
Smaller than the SC connector, the MPO features precise MT guide pins and holes that ensure greater alignment accuracy for optical fibers. It is ideal for high-density environments such as data centers, fiber-to-the-building installations, optical splitters, and connections inside optical transceiver equipment like 40G/100G/QSFP+ devices.
Fiber optic connector standards: IEC-61754-7 fiber optic standard, YD/T 1272.5-2009, EIA/TIA-604-5 (FOCIS 5)
Insertion loss: MM: 0.2dB / SM: 0.25dB
Number of mating cycles: About 500 cycles
Locking mechanism: Push/pull locking mechanism
Versions: Multi-mode/single-mode
Applications: CATV, LAN, WAN
Number of ferrules: Multi-ferrule options include configurations with 4 cores, 8 cores, 12 cores, or 24 cores; the most common is the 12-core configuration
Increasingly adopted worldwide
Fiber optic connector standards: IEC-61754-7 fiber optic standard, YD/T 1272.5-2009, EIA/TIA-604-5 (FOCIS 5)
Insertion loss: MM: 0.2dB / SM: 0.25dB
Number of mating cycles: About 500 cycles
Locking mechanism: Push/pull locking mechanism
Versions: Multi-mode/single-mode
Applications: CATV, LAN, WAN
Number of ferrules: Multi-ferrule options include configurations with 4 cores, 8 cores, 12 cores, or 24 cores; the most common is the 12-core configuration
Increasingly adopted worldwide
2. Classify fiber optic patch cord types by Structure
Fiber optic patch cords can also be classified based on structural composition into ribbon cables or bundled cables:
Ribbon Cables: Ribbon cables consist of flat-shaped optical ribbons that provide higher fiber density-allowing more cores within less space while significantly reducing cabling costs.
Bundled Cables: Bundled cables typically use round-shaped loose tube structures made from 0.9mm loose buffer tubes or loose fibers-primarily used for indoor integrated cabling solutions.
Both types cater to specific needs based on installation environments but remain essential options for achieving efficient network setups across diverse contexts.
3. Classify fiber optic patch cord types by Application Environment
Based on different application environments, fiber optic patch cords can be divided into conventional fiber optic patch cords and reinforced fiber optic patch cords. Conventional fiber optic patch cords are lightweight and cost-effective, making them suitable for most indoor transmission equipment and high-density wiring setups in data centers. As a result, they are widely used in everyday applications. Reinforced fiber optic patch cords are typically employed in challenging outdoor environments like underground tunnels and base station installations. These cords are designed to resist rodent bites, water damage, and high temperatures to prevent disruptions to normal communication. To meet the demands of harsh conditions, various types of reinforced fiber optic patch cords have been developed based on specific usage scenarios, such as armored fiber optic patch cords, IP67 waterproof fiber optic patch cords, and FTTA remote patch cords.
4. Classify fiber optic patch cord types by Sheath Type
PVC and LSZH are commonly used sheath materials for fiber optic patch cords. PVC-sheathed fiber optic patch cords are flexible and easy to install at normal temperatures, making them ideal for indoor applications such as horizontal wiring setups. In contrast, LSZH (Low Smoke Zero Halogen) fiber optic patch cords contain flame-retardant compounds that do not emit toxic smoke when burned. These are often used in poorly ventilated public spaces, such as subway systems and tunnels.
5. Classify fiber optic patch cord types by Fiber Core Count
Fiber optic patch cords can be categorized into simplex (single-core) and duplex (dual-core) types based on the number of optical fibers they contain. As illustrated in Figure 2, simplex fiber optic patch cords consist of one optical fiber and one connector, allowing signals to travel only in one direction-for instance, signals can go from A to B but not back from B to A. Duplex fiber optic patch cords contain two optical fibers and two connectors, enabling bidirectional signal transmission-for example, signals can travel from A to B and also return from B to A.
6. Classify fiber optic patch cord types by Optical Transmission Mode
Based on the mode of optical transmission, fiber optic patch cords can be classified into single-mode and multimode types. Single-mode fiber optic patch cords transmit light in a single mode with minimal modal dispersion, making them suitable for long-distance communication. Multimode fiber optic patch cords transmit light in multiple modes simultaneously; however, modal dispersion becomes significant and worsens with increasing transmission distances. Therefore, multimode fiber optic patch cords are better suited for short-distance communication.
7. Classify fiber optic patch cord types by Connector Polishing Type
Fiber optic patch cords can be divided into PC, UPC, and APC types based on the polishing techniques applied to their connectors. PC connectors use spherical polishing methods and are black in color; APC connectors feature an 8° angled polishing technique and are green; UPC connectors enhance surface smoothness based on PC polishing techniques and are blue in color. These three polishing methods vary in structure and performance-mainly regarding insertion loss and return loss-with APC currently being the most widely used polishing type.
8. Classify fiber optic patch cord types by Manufacturing Process
Fiber optic patch cords can also be classified by their manufacturing process-specifically whether the optical connectors are terminated onsite or during factory production. Field-terminated connector types involve terminating the optical connector during network installation onsite-a process requiring stripping the buffer layer, cleaning, polishing, joining, testing, etc.-which necessitates extensive tools as well as advanced termination skills from network administrators. Factory-terminated connector types (also known as pre-terminated optical connectors) refer to those where optical connectors have been terminated during factory production. Before selecting this type of cord, users should identify the interface types of the equipment at both ends and measure the link lengths. These pre-terminated cables are favored for their ease of installation (plug-and-play), speediness, and minimal user requirements.
9. Summary
Today's networks increasingly demand high-speed rates, high-density configurations, and high-performance features. MTP/MPO pre-terminated optical cables have become particularly popular in 40G/100G high-density data centers due to these evolving needs. Meanwhile, LC optical cables remain predominantly used for enterprise networks and server room wiring setups. Given the wide range of optical cables available on the market-varying by application environment, structure composition material properties-users should select based on their specific transmission needs.
