Optical fiber cables come with two types of fiber optic connectors. These connectors allow connections between the fiber cables and various wired networking devices. They come in multiple shapes and sizes, the two common ones being SC and LC optic connectors.
If you’ve been curious about the differences between SC and LC optic connectors, you’ve come to the right place. we’ll explore the differences between these two connectors and learn more about them. To buy SC and LC cables, visit focc-fiber.com
SC Fiber Optic Connector
So, before we jump right into the differences, let's look at the two connector types in detail. First up in SC connector, or Standard Connector. It first came out in 1991, making it one of the oldest fiber optic connectors.
Unlike LC connectors, SC fiber optic connectors have a push-pull system for locking. This ensures durable and lasting connections. This connector is commonly used in audio and video cables. Since it's extremely easy to use, it has dominated the market. The lock system makes it very easy to connect or disconnect it.
LC Fiber Optic Connector
LC connector or Lucent Connector is smaller than any fiber optic connector. It has a 1.25mm ferrule which is made from a ceramic material. Lucent is a Latin word that means light-bearing. The ferrule in this connector is a mechanical fixture or tiny tube which protects the cable's exposed or stripped fibers.
Once the LC connector is inserted into a device, the cable and device both use a light beam to transfer data. It's mostly used for singlemode fiber optic cables because they have a small core for transmitting only one light beam.
LC connector was first introduced to replace the SC connector. However, due to its latch-style system for locking, it wasn’t very effective. It’s ideal for densely populated panels and smaller spaces due to its smaller size.
Differences
● SC and LC optic connectors have different magnitudes. SC has a 2.5mm ferrule, while LC has a 1.25mm ferrule.
● The design is also different for SC and LC optic connectors. LC's demand is higher due to its innovative style, but SC ensures stronger connections because it's easy to use.
● The lifespan also differs for SC and LC optic connectors. LC connector might be relatively new, as it came out in the early 2000s, but it also provides similar insertion loss, speed, and connection capabilities as the SC connector.