What are the Parts of MPO Connector?
In the world of telecommunications, the MPO connector has become a standard component in optical fiber networks. It is well-known for its high-density and multiple fiber connections, making it highly reliable and efficient for use in data centers and telecommunication systems.
The MPO connector is not a complicated device, and it has only a few essential parts that contribute to its superior performance. This article will explore the various components that make up the MPO connector, and their respective functions.
The Ferrule
The ferrule is the most critical part of the MPO connector. It is the component that holds the fibers in place and aligns them with the opposing fibers in the mate connector. A ferrule is made of ceramic or metal, and it is usually cylindrical in shape, with a diameter ranging from 1.25 to 2.5 mm.
The ferrule has a precise dimension that must be adhered to ensure the proper alignment of the fibers. Each fiber is placed in a precisely drilled hole, with a diameter of 125 microns, which makes it challenging to assemble and disassemble the MPO connector.
Fiber
The MPO connector allows for multiple fiber connections in a small space, and for this reason, it uses ribbon fiber. The ribbon fiber consists of multiple fibers aligned in a ribbon formation, and it can hold up to 12 fibers.
Ribbon fiber is an excellent choice for MPO connectors because it facilitates easy installation and reconfiguration. It is also cost-effective since it requires less cabling to cover an equivalent distance.
Boot
The boot, also known as the strain relief boot, is the component that covers the fiber and connector. It provides a protective covering for the fibers while increasing the lifespan of the connector.
The boot is made of thermoplastic material and is available in various colors that represent different fiber types. The color-coding helps in the identification of different cables in a network. The boot also serves as a strain relief mechanism that reduces stress on the fiber and connector, preventing damage to the fibers.
Housing
The housing is the outermost part of the MPO connector, and it holds the ferrule, fiber, and boot in place. It is usually made of metal or plastic and is designed to provide mechanical stability to the connector.
The housing can come in different shapes, depending on the application and the number of fibers in use. It also plays a critical role in supporting different configurations of the connector to fit a network''s specific requirements.
Guide pins
The guide pins are small components located on either side of the MPO connector. They are designed to assist in the alignment of the fibers when mating two connectors.
The guide pins ensure that the two connectors are properly aligned, which prevents the fibers from misaligning, resulting in a poor signal. They are made of metal and have a diameter of about 1 mm.
Spring
The spring is a small component found inside the MPO connector, and its primary function is to provide a consistent pressure on the ferrule and fibers.
The spring ensures that the fibers are firmly in place and maintain proper alignment between the mating connectors. It also helps to prevent the fibers from dislodging, which can cause signal loss or interruptions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the MPO connector is a straightforward device with few critical components. Its design and construction make it a reliable component in fiber optic networks, and its use helps to simplify cabling and reduce installation costs significantly.
Understanding the critical components of the MPO connector is essential, and this knowledge can help in the proper installation and maintenance of fiber optic networks. It is crucial to ensure that the ferrule, fiber, and housing are properly cleaned and handled during installation or troubleshooting. Additionally, it is important to follow the recommended practices when making connections to minimize signal loss, increasing network efficiency, and reliability.