How to use LC Connector: Connect and Disconnect Fiber Optics

THE LC CONNECTOR:

Before learning how to connect and disconnect the LC connector, let’s make sure you know what is in fact this type of connector. 

The LC Fiber Optic Connector is a small form factor connector that uses a 1.25mm ferrule, half the size of the SC. It is a connector that uses a ceramic ferrule as standard, easy to finish with any adhesive. Good performance, highly favored for single mode use.

And to connect and disconnect fiber optics easily, you need a connector. LC connector serves the purpose. These connectors were created by Lucent Technology. So they acquire their name from the company's initials. Due to its small size, little connector and local connector are the other abbreviations that can suit the LC acronym.

WHY TO CHOOSE LC CONNECTOR?

There are strong reasons why LC is the connector of choice for high-performance networks. From the appearance, LC connect is like a mini size SC connector. The LC connector borrows the split sleeve construction and a cylindrical ferrule (usually ceramic) from the SC connector. The LC connector has a push-and-latch design that provides strain-resistant stability in system rack mounts. 

The LC connector ferrule size is 1.25mm, which is half the size of the SC connector ferrule: 2.5mm. The LC connector is rated for 500 mating cycles and its typical insertion loss is 0.25 dB. An interesting feature of the LC is that in some designs the ferrule can be “tuned” or rotated with a special tool after it has been assembled. This offers a considerable performance advantage. The LC connector's design and performance address the need for high density and low insertion loss.

SIZE OF THE LC CONNECTOR:

This connector is similar to the standard one but has a 1.25 mm size, which makes it a great fit for places with little space and the need for efficient signals. Usually, it works with small devices perfectly well.

LC FIBER CONNECTOR TYPES:

There are two main connector types from the polishing point of view. These include APC and UPC.

However, there are two other types based on connection. These include the jumper type and BTW.

APC LC FIBER CONNECTOR:

Strain relief boots and the green color of the housing are the two indicators to recognize this type of LC connector. The purpose of this connector is to minimize back reflection. It is usually managed through the eight-degree angle it forms with the wires.

UPC LC FIBER CONNECTOR:

UPC LC Fiver connectors have a blue housing, and they do not form an eight-degree reflection angle with the wires.

JUMPER LC CONNECTORS:

This type of LC connector helps terminate the simplex and duplex cordage. These connectors have a standard latch, so connecting and disconnecting becomes a lot simpler as a result. The jumper connectors are used in a central office environment and LAN networks.

BTW CONNECTORS:

BTW is an acronym for behind-the-wall connectors. They are even shorter than the typical LC size, approximately 0.99 mm, and usually fixed on the back of the equipment. An extended latch and a finger catch are used in these connectors to ensure their proper working.

ADVANTAGES OF LC CONNECTORS:

You can expect to get the following set of benefits using LC connectors:

  • Cost reduction
  • The polarization that lets transmission and receiving of the repetitive signals easy
  • Presence of anti-snag latch for easy connection and lesser need for the rearrangement work
  • Easy installation, which saves time and effort

SUMMING UP:

LC connectors are often used for setting up LAN networks. With its multiple types, you can expect a wide range of benefits when incorporating such connectors in your system.

Also check: Solder Connectors 



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