The FC/APC fiber optic terminator is specifically designed to eliminate back reflection from unused ports. It makes use of what is known as doped fiber technology and operates on wavelengths 1250 through to 1650 with a return loss of at least 55dB.
Fiber Optic Terminators stop the light reflection that occurs in open end systems. Unused fiber connection ports in fiber optic systems can be closed with a fiber optic terminator. Terminators for fiber optic cables are passive parts that block light from unterminated connector plugs. These terminators reduce optical power by converting it to heat inside the devices utilizing metal-ion doped fibers. FC fiber terminators have a great impact on fiber optic transmission reliability and performance of an application. Fiber optic terminators can lessen signal degradation in digital and analog systems by reducing the reflected power. These terminators are ideal for patch panels with couplers.
FC/APC Fiber Terminator Features
- Adapters ship with standard colored dust caps
- Fast and easy connection
- Reduced signal loss
- Return Loss: UPC: > 55dB, APC: > 65dB
- Back Reflection: UPC: < -55dB, APC: < -65dB
- Available in UPC and APC Finishes
- LC, FC and SC Connectors Available
- Environmentally Sealed for Protection
Fiber Optic Terminator Applications
- Telecommunications networks
- Local area networks
- Data processing networks
- Cable television
- Fiber to home
UPC vs. APC
UPC stands for Ultra Physical Contact. Even though it has a lower back reflection than the PC connector, it is not strong enough. APC stands for Angled Physical Connect. As a result of the ferrule end face radius being polished at an 8°angle, the back reflection is reduced. Only other angled-polished connections should be used to mate with APC connectors; otherwise, insertion loss would be extremely severe. APC is preferable because some applications are more sensitive to return loss. UPC can be used in applications where return loss is not a major concern.
