APC vs. UPC Connectors: Understanding the Differences | Educational
EXFO Tube
2 min, 16 sec
A detailed comparison between UPC and APC fiber optic connectors, including their physical differences, applications, and the importance of correct color coding.
Summary
- UPC connectors with a polished angle of zero degrees are usually blue and suitable for short-haul networks.
- APC connectors with an 8-degree polished angle are usually green and ideal for high-speed, long-haul networks due to lower back reflection.
- Mismatching UPC and APC connectors can cause signal loss and damage, leading to increased maintenance costs.
- Color coding helps with identification, but one should always ensure the correct connector types are matched, regardless of color.
Chapter 1
Introduction to the two types of fiber optic connectors, UPC and APC, and their color coding.
- Two types of connectors in fiber optic communication are UPC and APC.
- UPC stands for Ultra Polished Contact and is typically blue.
- APC stands for Angled Physical Contact and is typically green.
Chapter 2
Explanation of the physical differences between UPC and APC connectors based on the angle of polishing.
- The main physical difference between UPC and APC connectors is the angle of fiber face polish.
- UPC connectors are polished at a zero-degree angle.
- APC connectors are polished at an eight-degree angle.
Chapter 3
Detailing the optical performance differences between UPC and APC connectors and their suitable applications.
- APC connectors offer high optical performance, making them suitable for systems like analog video CATV and DWDM.
- They have lower back reflection and higher return loss than UPC connectors.
- UPC connectors are more suitable for applications that do not require high-speed data transmission, like Ethernet LAN and FTTH systems.
Chapter 4
The significance of color coding in fiber optic connectors and the consequences of mismatching APC and UPC connectors.
- Color coding, with UPC typically blue and APC typically green, helps in identifying connectors.
- Always connect the same types of connectors, regardless of color.
- Never connect an APC connector to a UPC connector to prevent signal loss and connector damage.
Chapter 5
The negative impacts of mismatching connectors, including signal loss and increased maintenance costs.
- Mismatching UPC and APC connectors can result in significant signal loss and connector damage.
- Such mistakes can decrease network performance and increase maintenance costs.