In optical cabling systems, when there are fiber optic cables, there are connections. Fiber optic connectors and fiber optic adapters are the key parts of hardware to satisfy these complex fiber connections.

Understanding fiber optic connectors and fiber optic adapters.

Fiber optic connectors enables quicker connection and disconnection than fiber splicing. They are generally used to terminate the end of an optical fiber, e.g. fiber optic patch cables, or pigtails. But the common fiber optic patch cables and fiber optic pigtails in the market are belongs to pre-assembly. Users can also get such cables by assembling fiber optic connectors and fiber cables. Nowadays, about 100 fiber optic connectors have been introduced to the market. And according to the different structures, they can be divided into various types like ST, FC, SC, LC, MT-RJ, MPO/MTP, MU, DIN, E2000, SMA etc. In addition, according to the polishing type of the ferrule, fiber optic connectors can be usually divided into PC, UPC and APC types.

In order to satisfy the connections of connectors, fiber optic adapters are introduced. Named depending on the connectors, fiber optic adapters are with the similar names with connectors, but have two sides. For example, when there is a LC connector and a SC connector, we called the adapter as LC to SC fiber optic adapter. But when there are two same connectors, it can also be called as coupler, e.g. LC to LC coupler.

Fiber optic connectors and fiber optic adapters are ubiquitous in optical cabling systems.

Fiber optic connectors are usually found in the end of cables in different applications. ST, FC, SC, LC connectors are the most widely used types in today’s common cabling system. ST is probably still the most popular connector for multimode networks, widely used in the optical distribution frame (ODF) or 10BASE-F interface. FC connector is simple in structure, convenient operation and also widely used in ODF. SC is usually seen in GBIC module. LC connectors have replaced SC connectors in corporate networking environments due to their smaller size; they are often found on small form-factor pluggable transceivers. Furthermore, MPO/MTP is a multi-core fiber connectors, which is expected as the ideal solution for high-density data center cabling. Meanwhile, different polishing type is for different application. For instance, singlemode fiber optic cables can be with PC, UPC or APC polished connectors, while multimode there is no APC ones.

The applications of fiber optic adapters are depending on fiber optic connectors. Thus, compared to fiber optic connectors, adapters seem more “quiet”. Nonetheless, in order to satisfy the fiber optic connectors, they are also ubiquitous. The typical case is the fiber adapter panel (FAP). FAP is used for patching fiber cable to the enclosures, such as fiber wall cabinets, rack mount fiber cabinets or rack mount fiber shelf. It enables you to make quick and easy fiber patch panel connections as they can snap into the fiber optic enclosures easily. Additionally, fiber optic adapters are also can be found in fiber optic wall plates. This product is applied in FTTH (Fiber to the Home) access, telecommunication, CATV, data communication networks etc., which is designed to bring fiber to the desk and widely used in multi-floor and high building.

When using fiber optic connectors and adapters, quality is the premise. Meanwhile, cleaning and inspection should be considered.

Fiber optic connectors and fiber optic adapters are small, but crucial hardware in optical cabling systems. A high-quality connector and adapter can usually support low insertion loss and high return loss. This is why we suggest to buy high-quality products. In addition, connectors and adapters are also required to maintain. Processes, such as fiber optic cleaning and fiber optic inspection are necessary to keep them work with high performance.

Fiberstore offers a comprehensive line of fiber optic assembly solution.

Fiberstore supplies high-quality fiber optic connectors and adapters with a low price. Additionally, pre-assembly products, such as fiber patch cables and optical pigtails are also available with a short delivery time. Furthermore, we offer other ancillary products, e.g. FAPs, fiber optic wall plates, etc. For more information, please visit Fiberstore.com or contact us over sales@fs.com.