Hello, everyone!
Today, I want to continue to explain a new topic – ODN engineering and maintenance. Now, I will explain the main elements of the ODN network. Today, it is an optical connector.
Optical fibers can be interconnected in three ways:
fusion splicing,
mechanical splicing, and
optical connectors.
Which method to choose depends on the application. The most reliable connection is the fusion splice. This way of connecting at the same time has the least attenuation and no reflection. Fusion splicing is mainly used in outdoor applications. Mechanical splicing is also rarely used. It is used only in situations when we do not have a fusion splicer or when we need to quickly establish a connection, etc. It is generally not recommended, as this method is not reliable, has a greater attenuation than fusion splice, and reflection occurs. Over time, the parameters of the index match gel degrade, and the attenuation of the compound increases.
On the other hand, optical connectors are not as reliable a connection as fusion splices, have significantly higher attenuation (about 0.5 – 0.75 dB) and have a reflection. Optical connectors are present everywhere, especially in indoor applications. They are used wherever it is necessary to connect devices, check and measure, etc.
There are a number of different types of connectors. It again depends on the application. The most common optical connectors used in PON networks are SC (Standard Connector or Square Connector), LC (Lucent Connector) and E2000. SC or FC (Ferrule Core Connector) is most often used in optical measuring instruments. SC, LC, E2000, FC and MTP (Multi-fiber Termination Push-on) or MPO are used in headends/COs and data centers. In general, all optical connectors are used for both SM and MM optical fibers. But let's say MTP or MPO are exclusively for ribbon fiber optic cables with MM fiber optics. In addition to this type, MM optical fibers - simplex and zip cord are most often used LC and SC optical connectors.
The connector pair is the place of reflection. Reflection can lead to system problems and should therefore be reduced. Therefore, the surface of the connector (ferrule) is polished to reduce reflection:
PC, blue, ORL> 45dB,
APC, green, ORL> 55dB.
APC optical connectors are required in systems with CATV service.
Different variants of optical adapters are used to connect optical connectors. It depends on the optical connectors and application.
This is the end of this article. I will explain this topic in the next article >> ODN Engineering and Maintenance (6).
Thank you!
