Fiber Optic Adapters, also known as couplers, are compact devices designed to connect or terminate fiber optic cables or connectors, facilitating the linkage between two fiber optic lines. They are engineered to join two optical cables and are available in various configurations to connect single fibers (simplex), dual fibers (duplex), or even four fibers (quad). These adapters can be fitted with different types of optical connectors at both ends, enabling the transition between interfaces such as FC, SC, ST, LC, MTRJ, MPO, and E2000. They are extensively used in optical fiber distribution frames (ODFs) and instruments, offering superior, stable, and reliable performance.
Features of Fiber Optic Adapters
Adapters are tailored for both multi-mode and single-mode fiber cables. Single-mode adapters provide more precise alignment of the connector tips (ferrules). It is permissible to use single-mode adapters for multi-mode cables, but it is not advisable to use multi-mode adapters for single-mode cables, as this can lead to misalignment of the smaller single-mode fibers and signal strength loss (attenuation).
Most adapters have female ends to connect two cables, enabling direct communication between two devices over a fiber optic line. Some feature male-female configurations, which typically plug into a port on a piece of equipment, allowing the port to accept a different connector than originally designed. However, this use is discouraged due to the risk of the adapter being bumped and broken, and the potential for misalignment and signal degradation if the cable and connector are not properly routed.
Functions of Fiber Optic Adapters
Fiber optic adapters typically connect cables with similar connectors (e.g., SC adapter to SC connector, LC adapter to LC connector, etc.). There are also “hybrid” adapters that accommodate different connector types (e.g., ST to SC, LC to SC, etc.). When connectors have varying ferrule sizes (1.25mm to 2.5mm), such as in LC to SC adapters, the adapters are considerably more expensive due to a more complex design and manufacturing process.
There are also adapters designed to attach a bare fiber-optic cable to a power adapter, allowing the cable to fit into a connection slot, whether into a mating sleeve or an electronic device. The fiber-optic cable can be fitted into an adapter compatible with any of the standard-shaped connectors.
Types of Fiber Optic Adapters
The diversity of connectors leads to a multitude of fiber optic adapter types. To ensure seamless fiber optic connections, the shape or type of the fiber optic adapter panel should correspond with the fiber optic connectors or cables.
Conclusion
Common shapes for adapters include square, rectangular, or round, featuring types such as FC, LC, ST, and SC. These simple types of adapters, often referred to as mating sleeves, facilitate the connection of two cables. Some of these common line-to-line connectors are also designed to connect three or four cables together.
