Fiber Patch Cable Buying Guide: From SC, LC, And FC Fiber Patch Cords

■ Fiber Patch Cord Selection Guide — SC, LC, FC Connectors and Length Recommendations  

Well, the fiber patch cords are primary parts in fiber optics systems, which contribute to low signal communications between equipment. By selecting the corresponding patch cord type, type of connector, type of fiber mode, and patch cord length, the performance and reliability of a network system are guaranteed. In this article, I will guide you through the basic types, connectors, and sizes of fiber patch cords to help you identify the right product.

■ Common Fiber Patch Cord Types and Variants 

SC to LC Single Mode Fiber Patch Cable (also down to multimode options) 

The SC to LC single mode fiber patch cable is the most common in single mode long distance and high data rate networks because it gives very low attenuation and very high dependability. The multimode is a version (SC to LC patch with multimode fiber), which is used for data networks, LANs, and short-distance applications. This set up has become popular for its connector interface flexibility as it consistently performs faultlessly.

SC to SC Fiber Patch Cord (Single Mode / Multimode, including APC varieties) 

In SC to SC single mode fiber patch cords and SC SC multimode fiber patch cord, SC connectors are known to be the de facto standard in most networking infrastructures. They feature two primary types of connectors: 

PC (Physical Contact) connectors: These form a reliable contact, resulting in low-loss connections that are suitable for most environments. 

On the other hand, APC (Angled Physical Contact) connectors: With an 8-degree angle on its end face, the APC connectors (SC APC simplex, SC APC SC APC simplex) allow significant reduction in back reflection, making them a good choice for high-performance applications. 

There is simplex and duplex variant also available, which can be used according to specific cabling needs.

FC to SC Fiber Patch Cord 

The FC SC fiber patch cord is a popular choice for industrial and premium-class communication devices. The threaded FC connector is intended to strengthen the connection, resist vibration, and is compatible with both single mode and multimode fibers in the right application.

■ Patch Cord Length Selection and Recommendations

The choice of length of patch cord is a vital factor to ensure that the wiring is done in an appropriate manner, thereby maintaining neat organization and allowing for the correct flow of signal. 

• The patch cords of 10 m length is the common standard, which is compatible for medium-to-long distance linkings in the data center, server room, and telecom rack. With SC to LC optical fiber single mode patch cords, SC optical fiber LC single mode patch cords, and LC to SC fiber optic duplex cables, this size is the most preferred. 

• In this respect, SC to SC multimode fiber patch cord and LAN short-distance connections are some of the most commonly used for lengths of less than 5 meters (e.g. 3-5m). 

• The guide's SC APC simplex and FC SC fiber patch cable are often custom lengths; nevertheless, 10 meters refers to a frequency range for simple patch cords. 

• Selecting the right length will prevent excessive slack and signal loss, as well as keep your system organized and tidy with just enough cable to make the connections efficiently. 

■ Fiber Patch Cord Comparison Table with Length Suggestions

As a patch cord manufacturer and supplier, we assuredly provide every option and customization service so that our customers have the freedom to decide as per their need. 

Moreover, I can offer a printable plan or give a comprehensive descriptions that fit all situations.

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