Fiber Optic Adapter: Features, Application & Its Types!

A fiber optic adapter is a device that converts one type of light-carrying medium, such as copper or optical fiber, into another kind of carrying medium and is used to connect two different types of cables. This device allows us to transmit information through light waves through the air, which can be difficult in some cases. It is also named fiber optic coupler.

An optical fiber network has two primary interface standards: SC and ST. The principal difference between these two interfaces is the fiber optic connector’s size and the adapter’s size. The SC interface has a smaller connector than ST, and hence this standard is preferred in high-density interconnect applications involving connections to many devices. This guide covers the Fiber Optic Adapter, its features, and many other things you need to know.

Fiber Optic Adapter: Features!

The fiber optic adapter connects fiber optic devices with different interface types. There are several features of this adapter that you need to know; the following are some:

Outer Connector

The outer connector is the part of the adapter in which we put the connector of the device we want to connect. The outer connectors can be found in various shapes and sizes, depending on their application.

Ferrule

Fiber optic connectors are used with optical fiber to facilitate communication between two or more devices. The ferrule is the part of a connector that makes up the tip of fiber optic cable. When fiber optic connectors are used with fiber optic cables, they come with the ferrule to make up a whole.

Color Coding

Fiber optic adapters come in different colors and maybe even with varying sizes of the connector, which helps us to identify them without much hassle. Usually, this information is found on the adapter itself, but if you have lost it, there are labels attached and on its packaging.

Fiber Optic Adapter: Types

Fiber optic adapters are available in a variety of types, and each one has different features as well as applications. Some of the most common adapter types are:

• Lucent Connectors (LC)
• Standard Connectors (SC)
• ST Connectors
• Ferrule Core (FC) Connectors
• Multi-Position Optical (MPO) Connectors
• MT-RJ Connectors
• Pre-Attached Fiber (PAF) Connectors
• Laser Connector (LC)

Fiber Optic Adapter: Applications

Fiber optic adapters are used in many applications; one of the most common uses is connecting two types of cables. It also comes in handy when we want to join or combine parts of our existing cable for various reasons. The following are the main applications of these adapters:

Local Area Network Or Internet:

This is used to install local area networks made up of patch cords. For example, when it comes to Ethernet networks, patch cords connect the devices by a fiber optic adapter or a patch panel. Many types are available in the market, and they have various combinations and varieties.

Fiber Optic Termination:

This is used to terminate the optical fiber and is commonly found in telecommunication, LAN, and CATV applications. These adapters are usually used to connect one end of the optical fiber to an adapter for terminating and another end of the type fibers to its ends. Similarly, the termination can be done manually or automatically, depending on your requirement and device.

Networking:

This is used in the installation of network systems. In this case, too, patch cords are used to connect computers on a network. The fiber optic adapter can be used with Fiber Optic Splice Tray as it protects them from damage. However, these adapters are attached at the end of each cord to ensure that it works properly and effectively.

Furthermore, when you install network cable, it is advisable to use tools like a cable stripper and crimper. With these tools, all the wires in the network system are cut, stripped, and connected correctly. Moreover, one should also ensure that copper-shielded cable (RG6) is used as they provide better signal quality and minimize interference from other devices.

Security System:

This is used in a security system with an alarm. This adapter is connected between the alarm and the receiver, making it possible for both devices to communicate through a wireless network connection. The security system always needs reliable data, so fiber optic adapters are best for this purpose.

Hope this information might help you understand Fiber Optic Connectors and related devices deeply and know their applications.