SC APC CONNECTOR PC

We use methods such as polishing single-mode fiber (SMF) connector ferrules with different shapes to reduce back reflection and return loss. Differences between FLAT, PC, UPC, and APC Connectors On the other hand, APC will give you return losses as low as -65 dB. As we have mentioned previously, with UPC polishing, you can get return losses as low as -50 dB. In addition to this, the APC connector will reflect light to the cladding instead of the light source.įurthermore, APC provides a lower return loss than UPC. For instance, UPC connectors will reflect any light to its source, while APC connectors will only reflect light at certain angles. The differences between UPC and APC connectors are not just aesthetic, and the shapes also influence performance. APC connectors are usually green, while UPC connectors tend to be blue or grey. As you can see, unlike any other finish, the APC sports an 8-degree angle with an almost sharp edge. The above image illustrates the slant of the APC connector. This section of the guide will help you understand the differences between UPC and APC grinding types in both appearance and performance. When looking for pre-prepared optical fiber at a shop, it may be a little challenging to identify the polishing type because it can seem so subtle. Another reason why APC connectors are so popular is because they are cheaper to manufacture than FLAT, PC, and UPC connectors are. APC polishes achieve the best connection, and this is due to them reducing return losses to below -60 dB.

SC APC CONNECTOR PC

Compared to the PC and APC polishing, you will notice that the tip ends in a dramatic eight-degree slant. APC–What Does APC Stand For?ĪPC stands for Angled Physical Contact. As you may notice, this is an improvement over the PC finish type. Its curved bevel allows for return losses between -40 dB and -55 dB. It might have rounded and angled edges too, and the UPC overall has a more rounded tip. If we visually compare the PC to UPC connection types, you will notice that the PC finish is almost entirely straight. You can see the UPC as the successor to the PC polishing type. This is why we chose to focus on the UPC and APC polishing types in this abstract. Generally, you will rarely find a connector with the PC polishing type, and it is essentially obsolete. The insertion losses for the PC polishing types range from -30 dB to -40 dB.

Furthermore, each physical contact type has its insertion and return loss. The PC in each polishing type stands for “physical contact.” As such, each polishing or grinding type describes the connector’s kind of connection or contact. In addition to these two, there is also FLAT and PC. The purpose of each form is to initiate return loss reduction.ĭespite there being four different polishing types, you will mostly hear or see people refer to only UPC and APC. In truth, there are four main polishing/grinding shapes. These weaknesses often occur at the connection points where the insertion and return loss may take place. While Fiber optic networks have higher capacity and suffer no crosstalk, they do have some weaknesses. UPC vs APC: Fiber Connector Polishing Types We will go over these polishing types and which one gives you the best performance. In this case, there are two polishing types you need to worry about UPC and APC. Instead, we will highlight polish/grinding types and why they matter. However, this is not what we will discuss in this guide. Therefore, choosing the correct connector will influence how solid and reliable your relationship will be. All these connectors have their advantages and disadvantages, and some suit only specific use cases.įor instance, the ferrule connector is vibration-proof and thus perfect for situations where the connection is in motion. The most common styles include ferrule, straight tip, lucent (tiny), and subscription (square) connector. APC, there are various types of optic fiber connectors out there.

Sc apc connector