Fiber Optic Patch Cord Applications: Data Centers, FTTH, Industrial & More

■ Fiber Optic Patch Cord Applications

The role of fiber optic patch cords is paramount in the operations of modern communication media and various data transfer mechanisms. This is especially true, given that global high-speed and high-bandwidth connectivity is a key component of digital infrastructure; these cables are utilized in nearly every industry and application. Aside from that, I have provided the leading and emerging applications of fiber optic patch cords below:

■ Fiber Optic Patch Cord Selection Table by Application Scenario

■ Data Centers

Fiber optic patch cords are necessary to:

• Join servers, switches, storage, and other appliances in hyperscale and enterprise data centers

• High-density cabling of racks and enclosures in this space

• Fast Ethernet links at rates of 10G, 40G, 100G, and 400G

The use of LC-LC and MPO/MTP patch cords with OM4 multimode fibers is frequent in short-distance, high-bandwidth applications. Additionally, the OS2 single-mode patch cords are the best option for long-distance networks between facilities or floors.

■ Telecommunication Networks

In fiber patch cords, both core and access networks interface with:

• ODFs (Optical Distribution Frame)

• DWDM/CWDM multiplexers/demultiplexers

• The transmission devices at the COs or Central Offices

• Final ONU/ONT devices in FTTH builds

They will then minimize attenuation and boost the transmission unity in long-haul and metro networks.

For instance, GPON networks mostly make SC/APC to SC/UPC patch cords to connect splitters and ONTs.

■ FTTH (Fiber to the Home) & FTTx Deployments

The fiber patch cords are commonly used for:

• Connect our Customer premises equipment to the ISP/CPE

• Termination of drop cables into indoor ONT or gateway devices

• Testing, maintenance, and temporary fiber links

They can also be shipped in ready-to-use lengths (either pulled or fixed ends) for quick and easy deployment.

■ Enterprise Networks & Campus Wiring

Commercial office buildings, universities, and hospitals fiber patch cords might be used in:

• Cabling between communication closets for backbone

• Horizontal distribution across offices or floors

• Distributing through patch panels or directly to routers and switches

The use of duplex LC or SC patch cords is everyday in multimode OM3/OM4 networks.

■ Broadcasting & AV (Audio-Visual) Transmission

MTP is becoming more and more commonly used in broadcasting studios, live sports venues, and concerts, because of its:

• High EMI interception

• Streaming capabilities for 4K/8K resolution

• Long-distance distribution with no distortion

Availability of either MTP/MPO or simplex LC connectors depends on the protocol employed.

■ Industrial Automation & Surveillance Systems

Fiber patch cords in some of the industrial sectors, such as EMI, vibration, and hazardous gases, are helpful to achieve:

• The assured secured data transmission protocols

• Further travels than copper

• Support for IP surveillance, smart factory sensors, and SCADA systems

■ Test and Measurement

Patch cords are one of the integral components in optical testing scenarios, which include:

• OTDR testing

• Insertion loss and return loss testing

• Fiber link certification

It is used by test equipment and has very rigid polishing (UPC/APC), and the rate of insertion loss.

Final Thought:

Having your application in mind, therefore, things like connector type, fiber mode, jacket material, bend radius, and length should be well aligned to the needs of the system. Working with a trusted manufacturer ensures that the company adheres to relevant international standards (IEC, TIA, RoHS) and enhances the network's performance.

Contact us for more information

James is a technical manager and associate at Zion Communication. 

Specializes in Optical Fiber communications,  FTTH Solutions, 

Fiber optic cables,  ADSS cable, and ODN networks.

james@zion-communication.com

+86 13777460328