MT Patch Cords MT-MT MT-FA Patch Cable

Overview

Designed for precision and performance, each multi-fiber push-on cable helps network administrators streamline cabling infrastructure. By consolidating 12 to 24 fibers into a single interface, these cords significantly reduce congestion in server racks and improve cooling airflow. Whether you are upgrading to 40G QSFP+ or deploying a 100G backbone, our MT-based assemblies deliver the low insertion loss and high return loss required for mission-critical fiber optic links.

Key Features

• Utilizes precision-molded MT ferrules for superior physical contact and signal alignment.
• High-density design supports 12, 24, or up to 72 fibers in a single connector footprint.
• Available in OM3, OM4, and OM5 multimode or OS2 single-mode fiber types.
• Factory terminated and tested to ensure consistent optical performance and reliability.
• Push-pull latching mechanism ensures secure connections in tight patching environments.
• Supports standard Polarity methods (Type A, Type B, Type C) for complex network architectures.

Applications

The primary use case for MT fiber patch cables is within high-density Data Center environments. They are essential for connecting high-speed switches, routers, and storage arrays, specifically those utilizing parallel optic transceivers like QSFP+ and QSFP28. These cables facilitate seamless migration from 10G to 40/100 Gigabit Ethernet without requiring a complete overhaul of the fiber plant.

Additionally, these assemblies are widely used in telecommunication central offices and colocation facilities. Their compact nature makes them ideal for structured cabling systems where rack space is at a premium. By deploying MPO/MTP technology, network engineers can create scalable, modular links that are easy to manage and expand as bandwidth requirements grow.

Specifications

Advantages

Investing in high-quality MT patch cords offers immediate operational benefits. The most significant advantage is scalability. As network speeds increase, the ability to utilize parallel optics becomes mandatory. Our cables are pre-engineered to handle these future bandwidth loads, ensuring your infrastructure remains relevant for years to come. Furthermore, the factory-terminated nature of these cables eliminates the time-consuming and error-prone process of field termination.

Another key benefit is the improvement in cable management. Traditional duplex cabling can create "spaghetti" mess in racks, blocking airflow and making maintenance difficult. In contrast, a single MPO trunk cable replaces up to 12 standard patch cords, creating a cleaner, more organized, and safer network environment. This efficiency reduces installation time and lowers the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) for high-performance data networks.

FAQ (Technical & Product Questions)

1. What is the difference between an MT patch cord and an MPO cable?

They are essentially the same. "MT" stands for Mechanical Transfer, which is the type of ferrule used inside the connector. MPO (Multi-fiber Push On) is the commercial name for the connector style that houses the MT ferrule. Therefore, an MT patch cord is a generic technical term for what is commonly sold as an MPO or MTP cable.

2. How do I know which polarity (Type A, B, or C) I need?

Polarity determines how signals travel from the transmitter to the receiver. Type B (Crossover) is the most common for connecting two 40G/100G transceivers directly. However, the correct polarity depends strictly on your specific network design and existing cabling. Always verify your equipment's requirements before ordering.

3. Can I use these MT cables for 40G QSFP+ modules?

Yes, absolutely. 40GBASE-SR4 transceivers utilize an MPO/MTP interface with 12 fibers (using 4 transmit and 4 receive). A 12-fiber OM4 MT patch cord is the standard cabling solution for connecting these high-speed modules.

4. What is the difference between Standard Loss and Low Loss MT connectors?

Low Loss connectors feature tighter manufacturing tolerances on the MT ferrule, resulting in lower insertion loss (typically ≤ 0.35dB). This is crucial for longer cable runs or networks with multiple connection points, where preserving the optical power budget is essential for maintaining 100G speeds.

5. Are these cables compatible with MTP connectors?

Yes. MTP is a high-performance brand of the MPO connector family manufactured by US Conec. Our MT patch cords are fully intermateable and compatible with MTP connectors, ensuring seamless integration into existing MTP-based infrastructure.

6. Do you offer plenum-rated (OFNP) jackets for these cables?

Yes, we supply fiber optic patch cables with various jacket ratings, including Plenum (OFNP) for air-handling spaces and LSZH (Low Smoke Zero Halogen) for areas requiring strict fire safety compliance.

7. Why are there holes or pins on the connector end?

These are alignment features. MT connectors are either "Male" (with pins) or "Female" (without pins). For a proper connection, you must always mate a male connector with a female connector to ensure the fiber cores align perfectly inside the adapter.

8. How do I clean an MT/MPO connector?

Cleaning is vital for high-density connectors. You should use a specialized push-type cleaner designed for MPO/MTP connectors. Never wipe the ferrule with a standard cloth, as the multiple fiber cores are sensitive to debris and scratching.