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Difference Between Male And Female Connectors In MPO Patch Cords

Time: 2023-12-07
        Most commonly used optical modules come with either LC or MPO interfaces. Optical modules with different interfaces must be used with corresponding patch cords.
        LC interfaces are found in optical modules across all rates, whereas MPO interfaces are typically used in high-speed optical modules.
        MPO patch cords are available in many varieties and can be categorized by fiber count, connector gender (male/female), polarity, and more.
        This article explains the difference between male and female connectors in MPO patch cords.
        An MPO patch cord is composed of optical fibers, outer sheath, coupling assembly, metal ring, guide pins, dust plug, and other parts.
        The guide pin structure is what distinguishes male and female types:
            • A male MPO connector is equipped with two guide pins.
            • A female MPO connector has no guide pins.
        Interconnection between MPO connectors depends on guide pins for precise physical alignment.
        For this reason, two mating MPO connectors must be one male and one female.
        The MPO interface on optical modules is usually designed as a male connector, so a female MPO patch cord is required for proper connection and tight mating.
        In addition, the fiber count of the MPO patch cord must match the number of transmission channels of the optical module and shall not be lower than the channel count of the module.
Figure 1 Schematic Diagram of Male and Female MPO Connectors
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