1.5 Fiber Connectors

Question 1

What does the SC connector stand for, and what is its locking mechanism?

Answer 1

SC stands for Subscriber Connector. It uses a push-pull locking mechanism that snaps in place and must be pulled to unlock.

Transcript: “To use an SC connector, it simply pushes into the connection and snaps in place with a lock.” (0:32–0:39)

Question 2

What is an LC connector and how does it differ from SC?

Answer 2

LC stands for Local Connector (also Lucent or Little Connector). It’s smaller than SC and uses a latch clip to secure in place.

Transcript: “Another common fiber connector is the LC, or Local Connector…” (1:11–1:16)

Question 3

What is the function of the clip on the LC connector?

Answer 3

The clip locks the connector in place. You must press the clip to release and remove it.

Transcript: “To remove it, you need to push down on the clip… easily remove it from the interface.” (1:28–1:33)

Question 4

What is the ST connector, and how does it secure in place?

Answer 4

ST stands for Straight Tip and uses a bayonet twist-lock mechanism to prevent accidental disconnection.

Transcript: “It uses a bayonet connector… twist and it is locked in place.” (1:57–2:04)

Question 5

Why are locking mechanisms important in fiber optic connectors?

Answer 5

They prevent accidental disconnection in high-density environments like racks.

Transcript: “It can be very easy to accidentally dislodge… That’s why we have all of these different locking mechanisms…” (2:15–2:23)

Question 6

What is the MPO connector, and what is its primary benefit?

Answer 6

MPO stands for Multi-fiber Push On, supporting up to 12 fibers in a compact connector—ideal for space efficiency.

Transcript: “Inside the MPO are 12 individual fibers… put more fiber into a smaller connection…” (2:59–3:05)

Question 7

What is MTP and how is it related to MPO?

Answer 7

MTP is a proprietary version of MPO developed by Corning, often referred to as MTP/MPO.

Transcript: “That name is provided by Corning, and they refer to this as an MTP MPO connector.” (3:19–3:21)

Question 8

How can you visually confirm fiber alignment in an MPO connector?

Answer 8

By shining light through it, you can see 12 individual fiber endpoints.

Transcript: “You can see that all 12 of those fibers are much easier to see on the MPO connector.” (3:41)

Question 9

Name the connector

Answer 9

SC - Subscriber Connector

Question 10

Name the connector

Answer 10

LC - Local Connector

Question 11

Name the connector

Answer 11

ST - Straight Tip

Question 12

Name the connector

Answer 12

MPO - Multi-fiber Push On