company news about How to identify high-quality fiber optic patch cords

Identifying high-quality fiber optic patch cords is crucial for ensuring reliable and efficient network performance. Here are key factors to consider:

1. Visual inspection is a basic step to ensure that the fiber optic patch cord is not bent or the outer packaging is not damaged. In order to protect the patch cord from damage during transportation, our package is like 1pc per plastic bag, then package with inner box, last with outer box

2. Choose the appropriate type based on your network requirements, Single-mode(SM) is for long-distance communication, while multimode is for shorter distances. For multimode(MM) fibers, higher categories (OM1, OM2, OM3, OM4, OM5) offer better performance and bandwidth.

3. Common types include LC, SC, ST, and MTP/MPO. Ensure the connectors match your equipment, it should have a high-quality polish (e.g., UPC or APC). APC (Angled Physical Contact) is preferred for single-mode applications to minimize back reflection, Look for connectors made from durable materials like ceramic ferrule, which ensures precise alignment and longevity.

4. High-quality patch cords typically have an insertion loss of less than 0.3 dB for single-mode and less than 0.5 dB for multimode, For single-mode, a return loss of ≥55 dB (UPC) or ≥65 dB (APC) is ideal. For multimode, ≥35 dB is acceptable.

5. Ensure the fiber core and cladding diameters match your network specifications (e.g., 9/125 µm for single-mode, 50/125 µm or 62.5/125 µm for multimode). Attenuation: High-quality fibers have low attenuation rates, typically ≤0.4 dB/km for single-mode and ≤3.0 dB/km for multimode at 850 nm.

6. Ensure the patch cords comply with industry standards such as ISO/IEC, TIA/EIA, and IEEE. Look for products that are certified by reputable organizations or have undergone rigorous testing.

7. Use a fiber microscope to inspect the connector end-faces for scratches, dirt, or defects, Use an Optical Time Domain Reflectometer (OTDR) or power meter to verify insertion loss and return loss.

8. Cost vs. Quality: While price shouldn’t be the sole determinant, extremely cheap patch cords may indicate inferior quality. Balance cost with the other factors listed above.

By carefully evaluating these factors, you can identify high-quality fiber optic patch cords that will provide reliable performance and longevity for your network infrastructure.