In the optical fiber network system, the correct matching of optical modules and patch cord is very important, which is not only related to the stability of network connection, but also affects the efficiency and quality of data transmission. As a professional optical module manufacturer, ETU-LINK will introduce you to the comprehensive knowledge of optical module matching patch cords.

Analysis of key patch cords parameters

1. Interface type: Common patch cord interfaces include LC, SC, FC, ST, MPO/MTP, etc. The most widely used are LC, SC and MPO. LC has single fiber and dual fiber. MPO interface is often used in high-speed transmission scenarios, such as 40G and 100G networks, which can realize multi-core parallel transmission.

3. MPO cores: Common ones include 8-core, 12-core, 24-core, etc.; short-distance optical modules such as 40G QSFP+ and 100G QSFP28 are often paired with 8-core or 12-core MPO/MTP patch cord.

4. MPO polarity: MPO line sequence has three polarities, namely straight-through type (Type A), cross type (Type B) and paired cross type (Type C). MPO fiber optic patch cords with different polarities are suitable for different application scenarios.

5. MPO male and female: MPO interface patch cord are divided into male and female. Generally, the optical module interface adopts male type, and the patch cord connected to it is female. Following the principle of male-female matching ensures the accuracy and stability of the connection and realizes reliable optical signal transmission.

6. Mode and color: Patch cord modes are divided into single-mode and multi-mode. Multi-mode optical modules are not suitable for single-mode patch cords because of the large divergence angle of the optical signal and severe signal attenuation during long-distance transmission; conversely, the optical signal emitted by the single-mode optical module is difficult to effectively couple to the multi-mode patch cord, which will cause transmission problems.

7. Cable diameter: Cable diameter refers to the diameter of the outer sheath of the patch cord fiber. Common specifications include 2.0mm, 3.0mm, etc. Thinner cable diameters (such as 2.0mm) are softer and easier to wire, and have obvious advantages in environments with limited space; thicker cable diameters (such as 3.0mm) can provide better mechanical protection and are suitable for use in complex wiring scenarios that are susceptible to external interference. The selection should be determined based on the actual wiring environment and installation requirements.

8. Material: The material of the patch cord includes the optical fiber material and the outer sheath material. The optical fiber material is mainly glass fiber, and its purity and quality directly affect the optical signal transmission performance; the outer sheath material includes PVC (polyvinyl chloride), LSZH (low smoke zero halogen), etc. PVC has low cost, but it will produce toxic and harmful gases when burned; LSZH has the advantages of environmental protection, low smoke, and halogen-free. In places with high safety and environmental protection requirements, such as data centers and office buildings, patch cord with LSZH outer sheaths are often selected.

Matching Example

Take ETU-LINK 100G QSFP28 BIDI 80KM optical module as an example

1. Support rate of 103.125Gb/s, transmission distance of 80km with KP4-FEC;

2. Wavelength: 1273-1286/1295-1309nm;

3. Device type: LWDM EML transmitter and PIN with SOA receiver;

4. Power consumption: Commercial grade <5.5 W.

From the appearance, label and other information, we can know that the optical module interface is LC interface, so it needs to be matched with a simplex (single-fiber) LC interface patch cord; because it is a single-mode optical module, a single-mode yellow OS2 patch cord should be selected, and the line body is marked with 9/125μm; the end face type should be selected to support long-distance and high-speed U PC end face;

If the data center wiring space is relatively compact, you can choose a patch cord with a cable diameter of 2.0mm to facilitate bending wiring; if the wiring environment is relatively loose and the mechanical protection requirements for the patch cord are high, you can choose a patch cord with a cable diameter of 3.0mm.

In actual application scenarios, in order to meet fire safety and environmental protection requirements, patch cord with LSZH outer sheaths can be selected.

By properly matching patch cords, the performance advantages of optical modules can be fully utilized to ensure efficient and stable operation of network connections in data centers. In the actual construction of optical fiber networks, no matter what kind of optical module, it is necessary to consider all aspects of the patch cord based on its parameters and carefully select the appropriate patch cord to build a high-quality and reliable optical fiber communication system.