There are various types of connectors for fiber optic jumpers, which are of great significance in the field of fiber optic cables. In a broad sense, various types of optical cable connectors can be classified according to standards such as usage, number of fiber cores, fiber mode, transmission method, transmission medium, length, polishing type, and termination method. Browse this article to learn about the detailed classification of fiber optic connector types.

1、 SC connector: standard selection

  One of the most widely used connectors in the fiber optic field is the SC (Square Connector) connector. Due to its unique features and advantages, it has become popular and the preferred choice for many applications. The SC connector is easy to identify due to its square shape, which distinguishes it from other connectors. This design can easily recognize and distinguish it from other connectors in the network. The square shape also provides stability and prevents rotation, ensuring a secure connection.
  One of the main advantages of SC connectors is their push-pull coupling mechanism. This mechanism allows for quick and easy connection and disconnection without the need for any additional tools. Simply push or pull the connector body to easily insert and remove the connector. This feature is particularly useful in situations where frequent connections and disconnections are required, such as during data center or network maintenance.
  SC connectors are widely used in data centers where high-speed data transmission is crucial. They are compatible with single-mode and multi-mode fibers, making them suitable for a wide range of applications. Whether transmitting data over long distances or within a local area network, SC connectors can provide reliable and efficient connections. Telecommunications is another field where SC connectors are widely used. They are typically used for telephone networks, fiber to the home (FTTH) installations, and other telecommunications applications. The high performance and reliability of SC connectors make them an ideal choice for transmitting voice, data, and video signals over fiber optic networks.
  Local area networks (LANs) also benefit from the use of SC connectors. They are typically used for Ethernet, allowing for high-speed data transmission between devices. SC connectors provide secure and stable connections, ensuring minimal signal loss and high data transmission rates.

2、 LC connector: compact but powerful in functionality

  LC (Lucent Connector) is a type of fiber optic connector that belongs to the Small Form Factor (SFF) connector category. It is known for its compact size and features a 1.25mm plug, which is smaller than the standard 2.5mm plug in other connectors. This small-sized design has promoted the widespread popularity of LC connectors, especially in data communication applications that require high-density connections.
  The LC connector has a small size and is very suitable for high-density environments such as data centers where space is usually limited. Compared to larger connectors, using LC connectors allows network designers to achieve a greater number of connections in the same physical space. This is particularly important in today's data-driven world, where the demand for increased bandwidth and faster data transmission continues to grow.
  The trend of efficient wiring has also driven the popularity of LC connectors. With the continuous development and upgrading of networks to higher speeds, the demand for more efficient and reliable connections has become crucial. LC connectors have low insertion loss and high return loss, ensuring minimal signal attenuation and maximizing the performance of fiber optic links. This makes them very suitable for high-speed data transmission applications, such as Gigabit Ethernet.
  Another reason for the widespread use of LC connectors is their compatibility with various types of optical fibers, including single-mode and multi-mode fibers. This versatility allows seamless integration into different network architectures and ensures that LC connectors can be used for a wide range of applications.

3、 MTP/MPO fiber optic connector

  MTP/MPO fiber optic connectors stand out from other fiber optic connectors due to their unique design as multi fiber connectors. Unlike connectors such as SC or LC that typically accommodate a single fiber, MTP/MPO connectors combine multiple fibers into a single rectangular core. These connectors can accommodate 12 to 24 optical fibers, making them ideal for parallel connections of high bandwidth optical fibers.
  In order to accommodate multiple optical fibers inside the plug, larger MTP/MPO connectors are required. This design allows for the simultaneous transmission of multiple data streams, making it ideal for applications that require high data capacity, such as 40G and 100G networks.
  However, the complexity of MTP/MPO connectors lies in their polarity and male/female head configuration. The connector has a keying mechanism that ensures correct alignment and prevents misconnection. The upward and downward directions of the key refer to the position of the key on the connector, which must match the corresponding keyway on the adapter or socket. In addition, MTP/MPO connectors come in both male and female versions and must be correctly paired in order to connect successfully.

  Although MTP/MPO connectors are complex, they have significant advantages in high-density connections and efficient data transmission. They are able to handle multiple fibers in a single connector, reducing the amount of space required for connections, making them valuable in data centers and other space limited environments. In addition, the parallel transmission capability of MTP/MPO connectors can achieve higher bandwidth and faster data transmission rates.

4、 ST connector: traditional and reliable

  Despite adopting traditional design, ST (straight pointed) connectors are renowned for their unparalleled reliability in the fiber optic field. These connectors have a bayonet coupling mechanism that ensures safe and stable connections. The bayonet coupling involves a twist lock mechanism, in which the connector is inserted and then twisted to lock it in place. This design provides a sturdy and reliable connection, preventing accidental disconnection.
  The ceramic plug of the ST connector further enhances reliability and ensures precise alignment of the fiber core. This alignment method can minimize signal loss and maximize the performance of the fiber optic link. The ceramic material used in the plug is also wear-resistant and corrosion-resistant, which contributes to the long-term reliability of the connector.
  ST connectors are widely used in various industrial applications, including manufacturing plants, oil and gas facilities, and transportation systems. These connectors are suitable for environments where optical cables may be subjected to physical stress, such as pulling or bending. The sturdy structure of the ST connector enables it to withstand these stresses and maintain a reliable connection.
  Another advantage of ST connectors is their compatibility with single-mode and multi-mode optical fibers. This versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of applications, from long-distance communication to local area networks. ST connectors have both simplex and duplex configurations and can communicate bidirectionally through a single fiber or separate sending and receiving fibers.