Types of Fiber Optic Adapters and Couplers
A fiber optic adapter, or coupler, is a small device designed to terminate or link the fiber optic cables and connectors between two fiber lines. They can be used to make connections with different types of connectors, reducing installation costs and increasing system reliability.
LC optical fiber network adapters are designed with a modular jack latch mechanism and pins and sleeves that are half the size of SC and FC adapter types. This reduces overall component weight and increases installation density.
1. SC-type optical fiber connector
The SC-type optical fiber connector is a 2.5 mm snap-in connector that latches with a push-pull mechanism. It has a square ferrule diameter and is used in single-mode and multimode applications. The SC is a popular choice in telecommunications networks because it’s easy to install and durable. The snap-in system helps prevent dust and moisture from entering the connection. The connector is made from high-precision plastic parts and a ceramic ferrule that provides good alignment.
The SC is the most popular type of optical fiber connector on the market today, although it’s gradually being replaced by smaller LC-type connectors in higher-density applications. The SC is a great option for any network that requires a high-speed, stable connection, especially for video transmissions.
The LC connector is smaller and more compact than the SC connector. Its small size makes it ideal for high-density data centers. LC connectors are commonly seen on the ends of multimode fiber optic cables. They use a zirconia ceramic ferrule that offers durability. They also feature a keyed body that ensures accurate mating. LC connectors are typically used in telecommunications, LAN and premises networking, data processing systems, and video conferencing.
2. FC-type optical fiber connector
FC (Ferrule Connector, Physical Contact) is a type of optical fiber connector that provides a reliable connection between fiber cables while minimizing signal loss and interference. It’s commonly used in high-speed data transfer applications like storage area networks (SANs) and other networking environments.
Similar to the SC-type connector, the FC fiber optic connector features a ceramic ferrule and stainless-steel screw-type coupling that’s more secure than snap latches. This design makes it ideal for stressful and high-vibration environments, such hybrid-fiber-optic-adapters-couplers as indoors and outdoors. It’s also compatible with both single-mode and polarization-maintaining optical fiber.
Though it’s becoming less popular than newer fiber-optic connector types, FC still finds itself in use with older equipment and in some telecommunications systems. For instance, many data centers still use FC to connect multimode and single-mode cable systems.
However, because they’re more difficult to unplug than LC and SC fiber-optic connectors, they can cause downtime in data centers when they’re misconnected. This is why it’s crucial to know how to properly handle fiber-optic connectors so you don’t accidentally disconnect them. To prevent damage to your fiber-optic cable system, it’s also recommended that you use quality fiber optic connectors. These are typically more durable and have higher performance than their cheaper counterparts. Moreover, they’re compatible with various cable diameters and crimping tools. This allows you to choose a fiber-optic connector type that suits your application’s specific needs.
3. LC-type optical fiber connector
The LC-type optical fiber connector, also known as a light cone connecter or local connection cone, is a popular choice for high-density applications. It is used to connect multimode or single-mode fiber optic patch cords or pigtails to equipment like switches, routers, and transceivers. The LC connector is smaller than other types of fiber connectors and offers more space for connections on front panels or enclosures.
LC connectors are hot pluggable, meaning that they can be plugged into an electrical port without shutting down the system. This feature makes them an ideal solution for fast networks. They are compatible with a wide range of devices and can be easily integrated into existing systems.
Another advantage of LC fiber connectors is their low cost. They are also compatible with a variety of fiber types and have a low insertion loss. LC connectors are also available with angled physical contacts, which reduce the amount of light that is reflected off of them.
While SC and LC connectors are both widely used in the industry, each type of connector has its own advantages. Choosing the right one for your network depends on how significant the size of the connection is and what equipment you’ll be using. The two types also differ in how they attach to the cable. The SC connector uses a push-pull locking system, while the LC connector has a latch-style locking mechanism.
4. ST-type optical fiber connector
The ST optical fiber connector, also known as a straight-tip connector, is commonly used with multimode optical cable. It has a circular odva-outdoor-cable-assembly ferrule, which holds the optical fibers in place and allows light to transmit through them. The ferrule is typically made of ceramic or metal, ensuring precise alignment of the fiber ends for efficient light transmission. The connector also consists of a housing and a plug and socket, which make it easy to connect and disconnect.
The SC connector, which is sometimes referred to as a Subscriber Connector, is a popular choice in telecommunications and data networks. It is simple to install and has a push-pull locking mechanism. It has a 2.5mm ferrule and is available in both single-mode and multimode versions.
Another type of optical fiber connector is the FC connector, which is widely used in datacom and telecom equipment. It has a threaded container and an aligned key for precise positioning of the connector. It has both single-mode and multimode versions and can be used with standard optical transceivers.
LC-type optical fiber connectors are smaller and more compact than SC and FC connectors, and they are ideal for high-density applications. They can be used with standard optical transceivers and offer the same performance as FC connectors at half the price. In addition, they are easy to install and do not require special tools.