How to Order Fiber Optic Cables
Simplex and Duplex Cable Ordering
- Fiber TypeChoose the appropriate fiber glass based on distance, bandwidth, and application requirements.
- Connector SelectionSelect connector types for each end of the cable. Multiple connector styles and polish options are available.
- Cable EnvironmentSpecify whether the cable will be used indoors, outdoors, or in an indoor/outdoor transition environment.
- Furcation DiameterChoose the appropriate furcation size based on flexibility and routing requirements. Options include 1.2mm, 1.6mm, 1.8mm, 2.0mm, and 3.0mm.
- Length and QuantitySpecify custom cable lengths and required quantities. Lengths may be ordered in feet, meters, or inches.
Know What You're Plugging In
Side profiles. The silhouette alone tells you the ferrule size, coupling method, and what equipment it fits.
The LC/UPC connector is used for:
- SFP and SFP+ transceiver ports on switches and servers
- Direct-attach links under 40G
- General enterprise and data center patching
The LC/APC connector is used for:
- OLT and ONT connections in PON deployments
- FTTH and FTTx last-mile builds
- Long single-mode runs where back reflection matters
The SC/UPC connector is used for:
- Legacy switches and patch panels
- Equipment upgrades and retrofits
- Telecom gear built before LC became standard
The MTP/MPO connector is used for:
- 40G, 100G, and 400G breakout
- High-density trunks carrying 12 or 24 fibers
- Data center cross-connects between rows
The ST connector is used for:
- Older campus LAN backbones
- Security camera and CCTV runs
- Vibration-prone mounting points
The FC connector is used for:
- Test and lab instrumentation
- Older telco central office equipment
- High-vibration paths needing a threaded lock
The SC/APC connector is used for:
- CATV and RF-over-fiber links
- High-power laser connections
- SC-footprint equipment needing APC's low back reflection
The MDC connector is used for:
- Next-gen QSFP and SFP breakout panels
- Ultra-high-density patch panels
- Builds where panel space is the limiting factor
The Importance of Certifications
In fiber optics, performance is measured in microns. Certifications ensure that every assembly meets rigorous international standards for safety, material quality, and environmental compliance. Choosing certified products protects your network from downtime and ensures long-term reliability.
Multifiber Cable Ordering
Multifiber cables offer extensive configuration flexibility and are commonly used in high-density data center and telecom environments.
- Fiber CountAvailable in a wide range of fiber counts, from low-density builds to extremely high-density configurations.
- Connector and Interface OptionsMultifiber connectors, breakout assemblies, and hybrid configurations are available.
- Furcation and Breakout StylesSelect sizes and lengths to support routing, protection, and termination requirements.
- Cable ConstructionDesigns include tight buffer, loose tube, ribbon, armored, mini-armor, and flat drop.
- Application EnvironmentSpecify indoor, indoor/outdoor, or outdoor-rated constructions.
- Length and Packaging OptionsCustom lengths with optional spooling, pulling eyes, and labeling.
Cassette Ordering
Cassettes house the splice or connector transition inside a chassis. Getting the configuration right up front avoids a field swap later.
- Cassette TypeSplice cassette, MTP cassette, or 40G HD cassette, depending on whether the transition point is a fusion splice or a factory connector.
- Fiber / Port CountMatch the cassette's port count to the trunk or breakout it will terminate.
- Adapter and PolishFront-panel adapters are available in LC, SC, or MTP, in UPC or APC polish.
- Loading ConfigurationChoose factory pre-loaded and terminated, or unloaded for field termination.
- Chassis CompatibilityConfirm LGX footprint or rack unit sizing against the chassis it will slide into.
- Quantity and LabelingSpecify quantity and any port labeling or color-coding requirements.