A Fiber Optic Patch Cord, also known as a fiber optic patch cable or fiber jumper, is a fiber optic cable capped at both ends with connectors that allow it to be rapidly and conveniently connected to an optical switch, router, or other telecommunications/computer device. It is used primarily to connect one optical device to another for signal routing.
Here are some key features and common specifications of Fiber Optic Patch Cords:
- Connectors: The ends of a patch cord are terminated with conventional optical fiber connectors, such as LC, SC, ST, and FC. Each type of connector has different characteristics and is chosen based on the requirement of the network.
- Fiber Types: They come in various fiber types including single-mode (SM) and multi-mode (MM). Single-mode fibers are used for long-distance communication as they allow the signal to travel further without signal loss. Multi-mode fibers, however, are used for shorter distances as they have a larger core and can carry light along multiple paths.
- Core and Cladding: The core, which carries the light, is surrounded by a cladding layer that reflects light inward to avoid loss of signal and allow the light to pass through bends in the cable.
- Jacket Material: The outer layer or jacket of the patch cord is typically made of a durable material like PVC or LSZH (Low Smoke Zero Halogen) which is fire-retardant and emits low smoke and no halogen when exposed to high heat sources.
- Performance: Fiber optic patch cords are designed to offer low insertion loss and high return loss, ensuring excellent connectivity and signal integrity in various applications.
- Applications: These patch cords are widely used in telecommunication networks, cable television networks, data center networking, local area networks (LANs), and at any point where a signal needs to be routed over optical fiber.
- Customization: Length, connector type, and the color of the jacket can be customized according to specific network requirements, making them a versatile solution for different network setups.
Fiber Optic Patch Cords are essential for a wide range of high-speed data communication applications, offering a reliable and efficient way to connect various devices within a network. Their ability to minimize latency and loss, coupled with their flexibility and customization options, makes them a critical component in modern optical networks.
