Choosing the correct MPO|MTP fiber patch cord to match an optical transceiver involves several key considerations. Here's a step-by-step guide to ensure you select the appropriate MPO|MTP patch cord:
Check the specifications of the optical transceiver module (e.g., QSFP, CFP, etc.) used in your switch or device. Ensure that the MPO patch cord is compatible with the module type. Specifically compatibility of transceiver is referred to the following aspects:
a. Fiber type: single mode patch cord is for SM optical transceiver and multi-mode fiber is for MM transceiver.
b. Connector Type: Should be MPO|MTP jumper but not other interface like LC, SC. Verify if the optical transceiver requires MPO-12 or MPO-24 connectors, which correspond to 12-fiber and 24-fiber configurations, respectively.
c. Data rate:
·Single-mode vs. Multi-mode: Ensure that the fiber type (single-mode or multi-mode) of the MPO patch cord matches the fiber transceiver. Different fiber types support different data rates and distances.
·Single-mode fiber (SMF): Typically used for long-distance communication and higher data rates (e.g., 10G, 40G, 100G, 400G).
·Multi-mode fiber (MMF): Commonly used for shorter distances and can support high data rates in data center environments (e.g., OM3, OM4, and OM5 fibers for 10G, 40G, 100G).
The first step is to have a comprehensive understanding of the transceiver's characteristics. Know the type of transceiver, such as SFP, QSFP, or CFP, as different transceiver form factors have specific requirements. Pay close attention to the data rate it supports. For example, a 10G transceiver will have different cable needs compared to a 40G or 100G fiber transceiver. Also, note the wavelength and the optical fiber type it is designed to work with, whether it's single-mode or multimode fiber.
Ensure that the MPO patch cord matches the fiber type of the optical transceiver. Mixing single-mode and multi-mode can result in poor performance or damage.
There are two optional fibers: Single-mode Fiber (SMF) and Multi-mode Fiber (MMF)
Single-mode Fiber is suitable for long-distance communication, high-speed data transmission over long distances, telecom networks, and data centers. OS2 fiber's transmission could be up to 200 km at 1310 nm and 1550 nm.
Multi-mode Fiber (MMF) have OM1, OM2, OM3, OM4, OM5. Usually, using in Short to medium-distance communication, local area networks (LANs), data centers, and intra-building backbones. OM1: Up to 275 meters for 1 Gbps, 33 meters for 10 Gbps. OM2: Up to 550 meters for 1 Gbps, 82 meters for 10 Gbps. OM3: Up to 300 meters for 10 Gbps, supports 40 Gbps and 100 Gbps up to 100 meters.OM4: Up to 550 meters for 10 Gbps, supports 40 Gbps and 100 Gbps up to 150 meters. OM5: Enhanced bandwidth for SWDM (Short Wavelength Division Multiplexing), supports 40 Gbps and 100 Gbps up to 150 meters, future-proofing for higher speeds.
There are three kind of polarity type for MPO|MTP fiber optic patch cord: Type A (Straight-Through), Type B (Cross-Over) and Type C (Pair-wise Flip)
Type A commonly used for simple point-to-point connections. Requires a Type A MPO to MPO patch cable on one end and a flipped cable on the other for proper signal alignment. Type B commonly used in data centers for backbone cabling and connecting MPO transceivers directly. This allows a plug-and-play approach without needing additional cross-over cables. Type C typically used for certain legacy systems and specific network configurations requiring this flip.
Male's MPO connectors is with pins, female's MPO connectors is without pins. Ensure that the MPO patch cord gender matches the optical transceiver's requirements. Typically, MPO transceivers use male connectors, so you may need female MPO patch cords.
The length of the MPO|MTP cable is a critical factor. Consider the distance between the transceiver and the connected device or other network elements. Longer cable runs may introduce signal attenuation, so it's essential to choose a cable with low attenuation characteristics. For short-distance connections within a rack or between adjacent racks, a cable length of 1 to 5 meters might be sufficient. However, for connections between different rooms or floors in a building, longer cables, up to 100 meters or more for multimode fiber in some cases, might be required. Ensure that the cable length you select is within the acceptable range for the transceiver's power budget and the required data rate to maintain reliable signal integrity.
First, identify the optical transceiver specifications. For example, QSFP-40G-SR4 (a common 40G transceiver) with MPO-12C connector. The wavelength is 850nm using with multimode fiber(OM3/OM4). Polarity is Type B, female MPO connectors required.
Second, matching the 12 Cores MPO (Female) patch cord Multimode OM3/OM4 Type B. Make sure the jacket material and cable length.
By following these steps and carefully considering the specifications of your optical transceiver and network requirements, you can select the correct MPO patch cord that ensures optimal performance and reliability in your network setup. If in doubt, consult the transceiver's datasheet or UnitekFiber’s guidelines for precise recommendations at sales@unitekfiber.com.
