What is the difference between apc and upc

Figure 2: PC fiber connector. It is an improvement of the PC fiber connector with a better surface finish after an extended polishing and the return loss is better than PC structure, nearly dB or higher.

Though it has a relatively lower back reflection in comparison with the PC connector, it is not robust enough. Note that repeated connections and disconnections will bring about the degradation of the surface and ultimate performance. Figure 3: UPC fiber connector. Out of the pursuit of lower back reflection, APC fiber connectors were developed. Since adding the angled endface, the reflected light will leak out into the cladding instead of staying in the fiber core.

It should be noted that APC connectors should only be mated with other angled-polished connectors rather than non-angled polished connectors, or it will cause very high insertion loss.

The optical return loss of APC connectors is dB or higher, better than the other connector types. Figure 4: APC fiber Connector. The following lists their differences in appearance, performance, and application categories. That is why the APC connector has not yet become generalized. Yes, it is important to connect connectors of the same type, otherwise the losses would be greater. The link could therefore be ineffective or have transmission speed defects.

While the importance is often given to optical loss, reflectance can cause significant deterioration, particularly for wavelengths beyond nm.

This particularly targets single-mode links in nm. In addition, the wavelength multiplexing technology is also more reflectance sensitive. The value in multi-mode connection with standard Ethernet protocols is not proven. In data center, the use of the APC connector will therefore be limited to DWDM connections, to long distance single-mode links based on splitter. It is important to learn about the nature of the embedded connectors on the test tools.

In fact, most of the time, the connectors are rather oriented on UPC. Path cables or suitable launch coils will suit the needs.

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. The last thing you want to do is cause permanent transmitter damage—especially with higher-cost singlemode equipment. Another important point: Cable loss is typically the smallest contributor to system attenuation. The largest loss comes from the connector. Higher-performing connectors offer dB savings that are more significant, measurable and consistent. Have questions about fiber connector loss?

Send us a note and we'll answer them! Dwayne Crawford has more than 20 years of experience in the datacomm industry. Data Center. Related Tags.