As data centers become more complex, the need for high-speed data transfer is crucial. One solution that is becoming increasingly popular is the MPO breakout cable. In this article, we will discuss what an MPO breakout cable is, how it works, and its benefits and uses.
What is an MPO Breakout Cable?
An MPO breakout cable, also known as a fan-out cable, is a fiber optic cable that is used to break out the signal from an MPO connector into individual fibers or connectors. MPO connectors are multi-fiber push-on/pull-off connectors that can hold up to 12 fibers in a single connector.
The MPO breakout cable has a single MPO connector on one end and several individual connectors on the other end. The individual connectors can be either LC, SC, or ST, and they can be either single-mode or multi-mode.
How Does an MPO Breakout Cable Work?
The MPO breakout cable works by taking the signal from the MPO connector and breaking it out into individual fibers or connectors. The MPO connector is plugged into the device, and the individual connectors are plugged into the receiving devices.
For example, if you have a 40G QSFP+ transceiver with an MPO connector, you can use an MPO breakout cable to connect it to four 10G SFP+ transceivers, each with an LC connector.
Benefits of Using an MPO Breakout Cable
There are several benefits of using an MPO breakout cable, including:
High-density: MPO connectors can hold up to 12 fibers in a single connector, allowing for high-density cabling.
Cost-effective: MPO breakout cables can be a cost-effective solution for connecting multiple devices.
Easy to install: MPO breakout cables are easy to install and require no special tools or expertise.
Flexible: MPO breakout cables can be customized to fit the specific needs of the network.
Scalable: MPO breakout cables can be used to scale up or down depending on the needs of the network.
Uses of an MPO Breakout Cable
MPO breakout cables can be used in a variety of applications, including:
Data centers: MPO breakout cables are commonly used in data centers to connect servers, switches, and other networking equipment.
Telecommunications: MPO breakout cables can be used in telecommunications to connect optical transceivers and other equipment.
Broadcasting: MPO breakout cables can be used in broadcasting to connect cameras and other equipment.
Types of MPO Breakout Cables
There are two types of MPO breakout cables: standard breakout cables and cassette breakout cables.
Standard breakout cables: Standard breakout cables have an MPO connector on one end and individual connectors on the other end. They are used to connect devices directly.
Cassette breakout cables: Cassette breakout cables have an MPO connector on one end and a cassette on the other end. The cassette contains multiple connectors and can be used to connect multiple devices.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an MPO Breakout Cable
When choosing an MPO breakout cable, there are several factors to consider to ensure that you select the right cable for your needs. These factors include:
Fiber count: The number of fibers required will depend on the devices being connected and the bandwidth needed. MPO breakout cables can have anywhere from 4 to 144 fibers.
Connector type: The type of connector needed will depend on the devices being connected. MPO breakout cables can have LC, SC, or ST connectors.
Cable type: The type of cable needed will depend on the distance between the devices being connected. Multi-mode cables are typically used for short distances, while single-mode cables are used for longer distances.
Polarity: Polarity is the arrangement of fibers within the connector. There are three types of polarity: Type A, Type B, and Type C. It's important to ensure that the polarity of the MPO breakout cable matches the devices being connected.
Gender: MPO connectors can be male or female, and it's important to ensure that the gender of the MPO connector matches the gender of the device being connected.
Jacket material: The jacket material of the cable can affect its durability and flexibility. PVC and LSZH are two common jacket materials used in MPO breakout cables.
Bend radius: The bend radius is the minimum radius that the cable can be bent without causing damage. It's important to ensure that the MPO breakout cable has a bend radius that is appropriate for the installation.
By considering these factors, you can select the right MPO breakout cable for your needs and ensure that your network operates efficiently and effectively.
Conclusion
In conclusion, selecting the right MPO breakout cable is crucial for ensuring the optimal performance of your network. There are several factors to consider when choosing an MPO breakout cable, including fiber count, connector type, cable type, polarity, gender, jacket material, and bend radius. By taking these factors into consideration and choosing a cable that meets your specific needs, you can ensure that your network operates efficiently and effectively. Remember to always choose a reliable and reputable vendor when purchasing your MPO breakout cable to ensure that you receive a high-quality product that meets industry standards.
