Nomenclature for fiber optic pigtails

Fiber optic pigtails are classified by connector type, fiber type, fiber count, and polish type, with each attribute reflected in their nomenclature.Connector TypeFiber optic pigtails are named accord...

Nomenclature for fiber optic pigtails

Fiber optic pigtails are classified by connector type, fiber type, fiber count, and polish type, with each attribute reflected in their nomenclature.

Connector Type

Fiber optic pigtails are named according to the connector installed on the factory-terminated end. Common connector types include LC, SC, ST, FC, and less commonly MTP/MPO for multi-fiber applications. Duplex connectors, which have two ferrules for transmitting and receiving fibers, are also used and are indicated in the nomenclature as “duplex” (e.g., LC duplex) .

Fiber Type

Pigtails are classified by the fiber mode:

  • Single-mode (SM, OS2): Typically yellow jacketed, used for long-distance transmission (up to 40 km), with wavelengths of 1310 nm or 1550 nm.
  • Multimode (MM, OM1/OM2/OM3/OM4): Usually orange (OM1/OM2) or aqua (OM3/OM4) jacketed, suitable for short-distance connections (up to 500 m), with wavelengths of 850 nm or 1300 nm .

Fiber Count

Pigtails are also categorized by the number of fibers:

  • Single-core: One fiber per pigtail.
  • Dual-core: Two fibers, often used in duplex applications.
  • Multi-core bundles: 4, 6, 12, or more fibers, sometimes color-coded for easy identification .

Connector Polish Type

The polish of the connector ferrule affects signal reflection and insertion loss. Common polish types include:

  • PC (Physical Contact): Standard convex ferrule end, low back reflection.
  • UPC (Ultra Physical Contact): Enhanced polish for lower insertion loss and higher return loss.
  • APC (Angled Physical Contact): Ferrule end angled at 8°, minimizing back reflection, often used in single-mode applications .

Additional Attributes

Other nomenclature elements may include:

  • Jacket type: Standard 900 µm buffered, armored, or waterproof.
  • Length: Typically 0.5 m to 2 m, sometimes specified in the part number.
  • Color coding: Used to indicate fiber type or core count for easier identification in ODFs or patch panels .

Example Nomenclature

A typical pigtail designation might be: LC-SM-UPC-1F-1m, which translates to:

  • LC connector
  • Single-mode fiber
  • UPC polish
  • 1 fiber
  • 1 meter length This structured nomenclature ensures clarity in procurement, installation, and network documentation, reducing errors and ensuring compatibility with optical distribution frames, patch panels, and transceivers .
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