Fiber optic terminations, which are also commonly referred to as fiber optic joints, refer to the point at which fiber optic cabling is terminated. These terminations are usually made by either using connectors that bring two pieces of fiber optic cabling together or connect one piece of fiber optic cabling to a piece of equipment or by splicing two fiber optic cables to create a permanent joint in between them. Regardless of which fiber optic termination method is used, it must demonstrate high mechanical strength and good optical performance. A fiber optic termination should also be designed to work with whatever equipment is a part of the overall fiber optic network.

At this time, different fiber optic manufacturers have created more than 80 different connector styles that can be used as part of fiber optic terminations. There are also many different ways to install these terminations. Some of the most common fiber optic connectors are called ST, SC, FC, and LC. If you plan on installing a fiber optic network properly, it’s important to use the right fiber optic terminations. Here is some more information on each of these connectors:

ST: This fiber optic termination, which is an AT&T trademark, features a bayonet mount as well as a ceramic, metal, or plastic ferrule. It has become increasingly popular in multi-mode fiber optic cabling found in many buildings and on college campuses.

SC: This fiber optic termination features a snap-in connector, and it can be used in both single-mode and multi-mode fiber optic cabling networks. It can be connected easily with a push-pull motion since it snaps into and out of place to connect.

FC: This fiber optic termination has become one of the most popular connectors within fiber optic networks that rely on single-mode fiber optic cabling. It plugs into equipment and then screws on firmly, and it has a key that must be aligned within the slot on the equipment.

LC: This fiber optic termination is about half the size of the ST connector. It is a standard ferrule connector comprised of ceramic, and it is known to deliver good performance in single-mode and multi-mode fiber optic networks.

Because there are so many different fiber optic terminations out there, it can be confusing to know which one you would benefit from the most when it comes to your specific fiber optic network. Connected Fiber can help you get a better grasp of fiber optic terminations and show you which connectors would work well in your network. Reach out to us at 910-443-0532 today