Patch Cord

Patch cord / Pigtail Patch cord / Pigtail

Fiber optic patch cords are vital in fiber optic networks, connecting devices like switches and computers. They come in single-mode for long distances and multi-mode for shorter ranges. Equipped with connectors (e.g., LC, SC), they ensure efficient light transmission. Available in various lengths and with specific jacket materials, these cords are crucial for high-speed, high-bandwidth data transmission, playing a key role in the performance and reliability of optical communication systems.

Features

Standard (Normal) Type

【Types of Connectors】-Common connectors on patch cords include LC, SC, ST, and FC. Each type has different characteristics and is used for different applications.
【Single-Mode and Multi-Mode】-Patch cords come in single-mode and multi-mode varieties. Single-mode fibers are used for long-distance transmission, while multi-mode fibers are used for shorter distances.
【Lengths and Colors】-They are available in various lengths to suit different needs and often come in different colors for easy identification.
【Jacket Material】-The jacket material can vary, offering different levels of durability, flexibility, and resistance to environmental factors.
【Polishing Types】-The connectors can have different types of polishing (like PC, UPC, and APC) that affect the performance and suitability for different applications.

Waterproof (Outdoor) Type

【Robust Construction】-They are typically made with a ruggedized jacket material that is resistant to UV radiation, moisture, and extreme temperatures. This makes them suitable for outdoor use.
【Waterproof Connectors】-The connectors on waterproof patch cords are specifically designed to prevent water and dust ingress. These may include standard types like LC or SC with an additional protective housing or specialized connectors like ODVA, FullAXS, or other types commonly used in FTTA.
【IP-Rated Protection】-These patch cords often come with IP (Ingress Protection) ratings, like IP67, indicating they are dust-tight and can withstand temporary immersion in water.
【Flexibility and Strength】-Despite being rugged, they are designed to be flexible enough for easy installation while also being strong enough to resist stretching, crushing, and abrasion.
【Single-Mode and Multi-Mode Options】-Like standard patch cords, they are available in both single-mode and multi-mode varieties, depending on the application's distance and bandwidth equirements.

Applications

Standard (Normal) Fiber Optic Patch Cords

Data Centers

These patch cords are widely used in data centers for high-speed data transmission. They connect various network devices like servers, switches, and storage units, facilitating efficient and fast data transfer.

Telecommunications Networks

Used in central offices and indoor telecommunications facilities for connecting different equipment within the network.

FTTH (Fiber to the Home)

With the increasing demand for high-speed internet, these patch cords are also used in home fiber optic internet setups, connecting modems to routers or other home networking equipment.

Office and Industrial Networks

Connecting devices in a local area network (LAN).

Waterproof (Outdoor) Fiber Optic Patch Cords:

Connection to Antennas

Used in FTTA to connect base stations to Remote Radio Units (RRUs) located on cell towers. particularly in 4G and 5G networks, where it plays a critical role in signal processing and transmission.

Harsh Environmental Conditions

Ideal for use in outdoor settings where exposure to moisture, temperature fluctuations, and UV radiation is a concern.

Telecommunications Networks

Essential for ensuring reliable data transmission in outdoor segments of telecom networks.

Field Deployments

Military and field communication setups often use these cords due to their durability and resistance to harsh conditions.

How They Work

Standard (Normal)

Transmission of Light Signals: At one end, the patch cord is connected to a transmitter, which converts electrical signals into light signals. The light signal travels through the core of the optical fiber, which is a thin strand of glass or plastic.

Core and Cladding: The core is the inner part of the fiber where the light travels. Surrounding the core is the cladding, which reflects the light back into the core, preventing signal loss and allowing the light to travel long distances.

Connector Types:Each end of the patch cord has a connector (like LC, SC, ST, or FC) that plugs into a corresponding port on different devices (like switches, routers, servers, or optical distribution frames). The connectors align the fiber core precisely with the optical pathway in the device, ensuring efficient light signal transfer.

Signal Reception: At the receiving end, the patch cord is connected to a receiver, which converts the light signals back into electrical signals. These electrical signals are then processed by the receiving device.

Single-Mode and Multi-Mode Variations: In single-mode fibers, the core is very thin, allowing only one mode (path) of light to propagate. This type is used for long-distance transmission due to its ability to maintain the integrity of the light signal over longer distances. Multi-mode fibers have a thicker core, allowing multiple modes of light to propagate. They are used for shorter distances, as the multiple paths of light can lead to signal distortion over longer stretches.

Data Transmission: The light signals can represent digital data, which is used for communication in computer networks, telecommunication systems, and various other digital applications.

Waterproof (Outdoor)

Outdoor Installation: Waterproof patch cords are used in outdoor installations, such as connecting equipment in Fiber to the Antenna (FTTA) setups.

Connecting to Remote Radio Heads (RRH): In FTTA, these patch cords connect base station equipment to RRHs located on cell towers. They must withstand environmental challenges like rain, wind, and UV exposure.

Maintaining Signal Integrity: Despite the rugged exterior, the internal fiber optic technology ensures that the signal integrity is maintained, providing high-speed and reliable data transmission.

Handling Environmental Stress: The waterproof and ruggedized features protect the internal fibers from water damage, corrosion, and physical impacts, ensuring long-term durability and consistent performance.

How They Production

Cable Assembly

The fibers are encased in a protective jacket. This jacket is often made of materials like PVC or LSZH (Low Smoke Zero Halogen) for protection and durability.
Additional strengthening materials, like Kevlar or aramid yarn, may be added for extra protection and to provide tensile strength.

Connector Attachment

On each end of the fiber, connectors (such as SC, LC, ST, or FC) are attached. This process involves stripping the fiber, cleaving it to a precise length, and then inserting it into the connector.
The fiber is then secured inside the connector, typically with an adhesive or crimp mechanism.

Polishing the Connectors

The connector ends are polished to ensure a high-quality connection. This is crucial for reducing insertion loss and back reflection.
The polishing process varies depending on the connector type and may include several stages to achieve the desired end-face geometry.

Testing for Quality and Performance

Each patch cord undergoes testing to measure insertion loss and return loss, ensuring they meet the required specifications.
Additional tests may include checking for mechanical and environmental durability.
A microscopic inspection of the connector end faces is performed to ensure there are no defects that could affect performance.

Packaging

After passing all quality checks, the patch cords are packaged. This usually involves protective caps for the connectors and secure packaging to prevent damage during transit.