Fiberkabelkontakt

Fiberkabelkontakt, or fiber optic connector, is a device that terminates an optical fiber and provides a mechanical and optical interface for joining two fibers or connecting a fiber to equipment. It aligns the fiber cores with a precision ferrule and an alignment sleeve to minimize insertion loss and ensure repeatable coupling of light. Connectors are used in telecommunications, data networks, and sensing systems, and come in various form factors and styles to fit different cables and environments.

Common families include FC, SC, ST, LC, and MU, with high-density variants such as MPO/MTP. The connectors differ in ferrule size, coupling mechanism, and whether the end faces are physical contact (PC) or angled physical contact (APC). PC connectors have nearly flat end faces; APC connectors are angled to reduce back reflections. Single-mode and multimode versions exist, distinguished by ferrule and core compatibility, with typical applications ranging from long-haul links to short-range data networks.

Performance characteristics include insertion loss, typically a fraction of a decibel for high-quality connectors, return loss or reflectance (UPC vs APC), mechanical endurance, and environmental sealing. Installation quality, including cleanliness of the fiber end, proper termination, and inspection with a fiber microscope, strongly influences performance.

Standards and specifications for connectors are set by organizations such as IEC and ITU-T, with common references including IEC 61754 for generic connector types and IEC 60794 for fiber optic cables and components. Fiberkabelkontakter are essential for modular, scalable optical networks and are chosen based on fiber type, connector family, and environmental requirements.