Single-mode fiber optic patch cord PC

A single-mode fiber optic patch cord with PC connectors is a high-precision cable designed for low-loss, long-distance optical signal transmission using a single light path.

Overview

Single-mode fiber optic patch cords are designed to transmit light through a single path (mode) in the fiber core, typically 9 µm in diameter, surrounded by a 125 µm cladding. The PC (Physical Contact) connector features a slightly curved ferrule endface, ensuring minimal air gap, low insertion loss, and reduced back reflection, typically around 0.1 dB insertion loss and -50 dB return loss . These cables are ideal for telecommunications, data centers, laboratory experiments, and high-precision optical systems.

Key Features

• Connector Type: FC/PC, SC/PC, LC/PC, ST/PC; duplex or simplex configurations available .
• Wavelength Range: Commonly 405–1650 nm, depending on fiber type and application .
• Jacket Material: PVC, LSZH (Low Smoke Zero Halogen), or plenum-rated for fire safety .
• Cable Diameter: Typically 2.0–3.0 mm for standard connectors; smaller diameters (0.9 mm) are available for high-density or polarization-sensitive applications .
• Insertion Loss: Usually <0.3 dB for high-quality cables; ultra-low loss options <0.07 dB are available .
• Return Loss: >50 dB for PC connectors; APC variants offer >60 dB .
• Durability: Tested for repeated mating cycles (500+ cycles) with minimal performance degradation .
• Protective Caps: Included to prevent dust and contamination on ferrule ends .

Applications

• Telecommunications: Long-distance signal transmission with minimal dispersion.
• Data Centers: High-speed Ethernet and fiber channel connections.
• Laboratory & Research: Optical experiments requiring precise alignment and low back reflection.
• Wave Division Multiplexing (WDM): Supports multiple wavelengths for advanced optical networks .

Purchasing Considerations

• Length: Available in standard lengths (1 m, 2 m, 5 m, 10 m) or custom lengths .
• Fiber Type: OS1/OS2 single-mode fibers for long-distance, low-loss transmission.
• Connector Compatibility: Ensure the patch cord matches the existing system (e.g., FC/PC to FC/PC or hybrid FC/PC to FC/APC).
• Jacket Type: Choose based on environmental requirements (PVC for general use, LSZH for fire-sensitive areas). High-quality single-mode PC patch cords are available from suppliers like Thorlabs, Edmund Optics, Agiltron, Fiber Instrument Sales, and Amazon, offering a wide range of wavelengths, lengths, and connector types . Proper selection ensures low signal loss, high return loss, and reliable long-term performance.