Q: What does duplex mean?
A: Duplex means that there is a set of two connectors on each side of the cable. These are duplex cables.
Q: Can I use any fiber patch cable in my network or do I have to order a specific type?
A: Whenever you need to add more fiber to an existing network you must match the mode (single mode or multimode) micron size (62.5/125 or 50/125) and connector type.
Q: What is the maximum distance singlemode fiber can transmit a signal?
A: Singlemode fiber can support gigabit ethernet up to 10 kilometers in length. Typically singlemode signals can travel up to 50 times longer than multimode signals.
Q: What does plenum mean?
A: Plenum is a rating for cable jackets that ensures that the cables meet installation regulations. Plenum cables have no performance benefits. You would only need plenum cables when you are installing cables in ceilings or other air-return spaces.
Q: What are the differences between the fiber connectors?
A:
SC- Has a molded plug casing with push and pull locking system
LC- Small form factor that resembles an SC connector
Q: What is the difference between 50/125 and 62.5/125 fiber?
A: 50/125 can be run further with less loss than 62.5/125 fiber.
Q: What is the difference between OM3 and OM4 fiber cables?
A: OM3 and OM4 fiber cables are both laser optimized but they have a couple of major differences. OM3 fiber cables have a bandwidth of 2000 MHz*km. They can support 10GB transmissions up to 300 meters and 40/100GB transmissions up to 100 meters. OM4 fiber cables have a much higher bandwidth than any of the other multimode fiber cables at 4700 MHz*km. They can support 10GB transmissions up to 550 meters and 40/100GB transmissions up to 125 meters.
Q: What is the difference between UPC fiber connectors and APC fiber connectors?
A: UPC stands for Ultra Physical Contact and APC stands for Angled Physical Contact. UPC connectors are finely polished on the ends of the fibers in order to decrease insertion loss and increase return loss (the higher the return loss the better the connection). UPC connectors have a return loss of more than 50dBs. The APC connectors were made to decrease insertion loss and increase the return loss even more. APC connectors have a return loss of more than 60dB. The end face of the APC connector fiber is polished at an 8 degree angle which prevents back reflections that degrade the performance of your system.
Q: What is an MTP/MPO fiber connector?
A: MTP stands for Multifiber Termination Push-on Connector. MTP/MPO connectors and cables are high density multifiber connectors. They save space and cost less than adding multiple fiber lines. Typically they have 12 fiber strands in them but can range from 6 to 144 fiber strands within a single cable.
Q: Are MTP and MPO cables the same thing?
A: MTP and MPO cables are essentially the same thing. MPO is the generic name for the connector type while MTP is a registered trademark name and design from UsConnec. The two connector types are backwards compatible and work with all MTP/MPO cassettes and patch panels. The main difference is that MTP was designed for superior mechanical and optical performance over MPO.
