There are several types of fiber optic connectors, including:
- LC (Lucent Connector): LC connectors are small form-factor connectors that use a 1.25mm ferrule; they are widely used in high-density applications such as data centers and telecommunications.
- SC (Subscriber Connector): SC connectors are one of the most widely used fiber optic connectors; they use a 2.5mm ferrule and have a simple push-pull latching mechanism.
- ST (Straight Tip Connector): ST connectors are one of the first fiber optic connectors developed; they use a 2.5mm ferrule and have a bayonet-style latching mechanism.
- FC (Fiber Channel Connector): FC connectors are similar to SC connectors; they use a 2.5mm ferrule and have a threaded latching mechanism.
- MTP/MPO (Multi-fiber Termination Push-on/Multi-fiber Push-on): MTP/MPO connectors are high-density connectors that can support multiple fibers in a single connector; they are widely used in data centers and telecommunications applications.
- SFP (Small Form-factor Pluggable): SFP connectors are small form-factor transceiver modules that plug into a host system; they can support a variety of speeds and distances depending on the type of SFP.
- SFP+: SFP+ connectors are similar to SFP connectors but support higher speeds and distances.
- QSFP (Quad Small Form-factor Pluggable): QSFP connectors are similar to SFP connectors, but they support higher speeds and distances, and they can support up to 4 fibers in a single connector.
- QSFP+ (Quad Small Form-factor Pluggable Plus): QSFP+ connectors are similar to QSFP connectors but support even higher speeds and distances.
- QSFP28 (Quad Small Form-factor Pluggable 28): QSFP28 connectors are similar to QSFP+ connectors, but they support even higher speeds and distances, and they can support up to 28 fibers in a single connector.
- CXP (Cabled SFP+): CXP connectors are similar to SFP+ but are cabled, meaning they have a cable attached to the connector rather than a transceiver.
- CFP (C Form-factor Pluggable): CFP connectors are large form-factor connectors that can support multiple fibers, speeds, and distances.
- CFP2 (C Form-factor Pluggable 2): CFP2 connectors are similar to CFP connectors but more miniature and can support higher speeds and distances.
New fiber optic connector types may be developed as technology continues to evolve, and the list above may not be exhaustive. Also, the availability of connector types can vary depending on the location and the specific application. It’s essential to consult with experts and conduct proper assessments to determine the most appropriate type of fiber optic connector for a specific use case.
* CXP (Cabled SFP+) is not a connector; it’s a transceiver form factor, while CFP2 is a standard for a 100Gbps optical transceiver module.
Fiber optic connectors come in various styles, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. The most important factors to consider when selecting a fiber optic connector are the type of fiber being used, the environment in which the connector will be used, and the specific application. It’s essential to consult with experts and conduct proper assessments to determine the most appropriate type of fiber optic connector for a specific use case.