Fiber Optic Connector

Lucent Connectors (LC)

LC connectors have some of the smallest ferrules, measuring 1 1/4 mm, which is approximately half the size of an ST connector. Their tiny size puts them into the small form factor category of terminations. These connectors work well for multimode transceivers and single-mode cables.

Standard Connectors (SC)

SC connectors have a 2 1/2 mm ferrule that snaps cleanly into place. Using a push and pull motion secures the connector. These types of terminations have high levels of performance, which along with a price drop since their introduction, has contributed to their vast popularity in multiple applications. In fact, many formerly ST connectors applications now use SC connectors instead, since SC was invented to supplant ST in both telecommunications and data communications.

ST Connectors

ST connectors are among the oldest of fiber cable connector types. Until 2005, this proprietary AT&T brand of connector ranked as one of the most popular fiber terminations. While solutions that solve some issues ST connectors present have replaced these connectors, they still remain popular. Today, their cost is low due to their age, making them a choice for budget-mindful projects. The design of ST connectors is a 2 1/2 mm ferrule that has a bayonet-style connection between the fibers through an adapter. These ferrules use a spring-load design that can make installation difficult unless the parts have precise seating, though a keyed slot assists with aligning the ferrules for connection.

Ferrule Core (FC) Connectors

FC connectors rank as some of the most popular for use with single-mode connections before the introduction of LC and SC connectors. These use a keyed, screw-in type ferrule. However, the process of screwing in the ferrule requires extra time and effort compared to snap-in SC connectors. The screw-in design prevents the connection from interruptions, even when someone pulls the cable or the system has applications in areas with a lot of movement. Video over fiber is one use for these types of connectors due to the constant flow of data through the cable and the security of the connector. Like ST and SC connectors, FC terminations use a 2 1/2 mm ferrule. With a hybrid adapter, anyone can create a bridge between these connector types.

Multi-Position Optical (MPO) Connectors

MTP is the commercial brand of MPO connectors. MTP and MPO connectors are the same, except the MTP brand has a specific use for high-performance applications, whereas MPO works on more mechanical situations. These two connectors usually connect ribbon cables with multiple fibers. These connectors have two to six rows of 12 or 16 fibers. MPO connectors with 12 fibers per row can have two to six rows, with two the most common number. Connectors that have 16 fibers per row do not have more than two rows. Connections between ferrules use pins and holes to mate the ends of the fiber with another cable or an electronic device. Most often, this type of connector has applications in either high-speed links that use multimode or for pre-terminated cable groupings.

MT-RJ Connectors

Today, MT-RJ connectors have disappeared from use. However, some systems may still require these connectors for repairs. MT-RJ only works for multimode cables with duplex fibers. Both fibers go into the ferrule that connects to its mated half with pins and holes, similar to MPO terminations. Some plug-and-jack variations on this type of connector also exist.

Clean Your Connectors
One of the most important steps for maintaining your fiber cables and connectors is to clean them regularly and thoroughly. Dirt, dust, oil, and other contaminants can affect the quality and performance of your optical signals, cause attenuation, reflection, and interference, and even damage the fiber core or the connector end-face. To clean your connectors, you should use a lint-free wipe, a cleaning cassette, or a compressed air canister, depending on the type and size of the connector. You should also inspect your connectors before and after cleaning with a microscope or a video probe to ensure that they are free of debris and scratches.
Store Your Cables Properly
Another key factor for maintaining your fiber cables and connectors is to store them properly when they are not in use or in transit. You should avoid exposing your cables to extreme temperatures, humidity, sunlight, chemicals, or mechanical stress, as these can degrade the fiber material, cause cracks, or break the cable. You should also coil your cables carefully and loosely, following the recommended bend radius and avoiding kinks, twists, or knots. You should label your cables clearly and use protective caps, bags, or cases to prevent dust and damage to the connectors.
Test Your Cables Regularly
To ensure that your fiber cables and connectors are functioning well and delivering the expected performance, you should test them regularly with the appropriate tools and methods. You should measure the optical power, attenuation, and loss of your cables with a power meter, a light source, or an optical time-domain reflectometer (OTDR). You should also check the quality and integrity of your optical signals with an optical spectrum analyzer (OSA) or an optical modulation analyzer (OMA). You should compare your test results with the specifications and standards of your system and identify any issues or anomalies.
Repair or Replace Your Cables If Needed
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, your fiber cables and connectors may suffer from damage, wear, or failure that cannot be fixed by cleaning or testing. In that case, you should repair or replace your cables as soon as possible to avoid further problems or downtime. You should use a fusion splicer or a mechanical splice to join broken or cut fibers, following the manufacturer's instructions and safety precautions. You should also use compatible and high-quality connectors, adapters, and patch cords to connect or replace your cables, and avoid mixing different types or grades of fiber.
Train Your Staff and Follow Best Practices
Finally, one of the most effective ways to maintain your fiber cables and connectors is to train your staff and follow best practices for handling, installing, and operating your fiber system. You should educate your staff on the basics of fiber optics, the types and characteristics of fiber cables and connectors, the potential hazards and risks of working with fiber, and the proper procedures and techniques for cleaning, storing, testing, repairing, and replacing fiber components. You should also follow the industry standards and guidelines for fiber installation, termination, and certification, and document your maintenance activities and records.