SC/APC Series Connectors
The iFiber Optix SC/APC Series Fiber Optic Connectors combine the familiar push-pull SC interface with an angled 8° APC ferrule end-face — delivering ultra-low back reflection and superior signal integrity for high-precision fiber optic applications. Where standard SC/PC connectors are insufficient, SC/APC sets the performance standard.
Compliant with ANSI, IEC, TIA/EIA, and RoHS standards, SC/APC connectors achieve ≥ 65dB return loss and ≤ 0.15dB insertion loss for singlemode — making them the required connector type for CATV, DWDM, analog signal, FTTH, and any network where back reflection would cause measurable system degradation.
SC/APC Series Fiber Optic Connectors
The SC/APC connector retains the SC's convenient push-pull latch for fast, tool-free installation and removal — while adding an 8-degree angled ferrule end-face that redirects reflected light away from the fiber core. This geometry achieves ≥ 65dB return loss, far exceeding the ≥ 55dB of standard SC/PC connectors. Identified by their green color coding, SC/APC connectors are the required interface for CATV, DWDM, and analog optical signal environments, as well as FTTH passive optical network (PON) deployments.
Download Product DatasheetKey Features
- 8° APC Ferrule End-Face The angled 8-degree ferrule polish redirects reflected light away from the fiber core, achieving ≥ 65dB return loss — the critical performance advantage of APC over standard PC or UPC connectors in analog, CATV, and DWDM systems.
- Push-Pull Latching Mechanism The SC push-pull latch provides quick, positive insertion and single-motion removal without tools — eliminating the threading time of FC connectors while retaining a secure, positive lock that prevents accidental disconnection.
- Low Insertion Loss Insertion loss of ≤ 0.15dB typical for singlemode and ≤ 0.20dB typical for multimode, ensuring efficient signal transmission and maximum available link budget across both long-haul and short-reach fiber spans.
- High Durability & Reliability Durability rated at <0.1dB change over the full rated mating cycle count. Constructed with high-quality materials to withstand rigorous daily use, providing consistent long-term optical and mechanical performance.
- Wide Temperature Range Operates reliably from -40°C to +75°C — suitable for outdoor FTTH distribution points, industrial environments, and harsh-climate telecom infrastructure where thermal cycling is a constant factor.
- Industry Standards Compliance Fully compliant with ANSI, IEC, TIA/EIA, and RoHS standards — ensuring compatibility with existing APC infrastructure, safety in regulated environments, and acceptance across international deployments.
Technical Specifications
All iFiber Optix SC/APC Series connectors are manufactured and tested to meet or exceed the following performance specifications.
| Specification | Singlemode | Multimode |
|---|---|---|
| Insertion Loss | ≤ 0.15dB typical | ≤ 0.20dB typical |
| Return Loss | ≥ 65dB PC | — |
| Durability | < 0.1dB change over rated cycles | < 0.1dB change over rated cycles |
| Operating Temperature | -40°C to +75°C | -40°C to +75°C |
| APC Polish Angle | 8 degrees | — |
| Connector Type | SC (Subscriber Connector), push-pull latch, 2.5mm ceramic ferrule | |
| Color Code | Green (APC standard) | — |
| Standards | ANSI, IEC, TIA/EIA, RoHS | |
Example use case: OS2 singlemode SC/APC connector deployed on a FTTH PON distribution network — delivering ≥ 65dB return loss at each splice point to eliminate Rayleigh backscatter interference in the downstream analog video overlay signal.
Applications
SC/APC is the specified connector type wherever APC-grade return loss is required — from CATV and DWDM backbone to FTTH last mile and precision industrial systems.
Telecom Networks
Ideal for high-speed, long-distance singlemode data transmission in carrier networks — providing minimal signal loss and APC-grade back reflection performance across metro and long-haul fiber infrastructure.
Cable TV Networks
APC polish is mandatory for CATV hybrid fiber-coax (HFC) networks — even minor back reflection causes visible noise in analog video channels. SC/APC ensures clean signal delivery across broadcast distribution infrastructure.
FTTH & Passive Optical Networks
SC/APC is the dominant connector type in FTTH PON deployments — used at optical network terminals (ONT), splitter outputs, and distribution frames to maintain return loss performance across the entire passive optical network.
Local Area Networks
Provides reliable, low-reflection singlemode connectivity for enterprise LAN backbone and inter-building links — particularly in facilities where CATV or analog signals share the same fiber plant as data traffic.
Industrial & Medical
Suitable for environments requiring precise, dependable fiber optic connections — including industrial automation systems, medical imaging equipment, and laboratory instrumentation where signal integrity is non-negotiable.
DWDM Systems
APC polish is required in DWDM systems where closely spaced wavelength channels cannot tolerate back-reflection noise. SC/APC maintains the ≥ 65dB return loss that coherent DWDM amplifiers and receivers demand.
How to Choose the Right SC/APC Connector
SC/APC is a precision connector for specific applications. Use this guide to confirm it is the right choice — and to avoid the most common installation mistakes.
Confirm APC Is Required
SC/APC is required for CATV, DWDM, analog optical signal, and FTTH PON networks. For standard digital-only data links where SC/PC or SC/UPC performance is sufficient, APC may not be necessary — but it will never degrade performance if used throughout.
Never Mix APC with PC or UPC
SC/APC connectors (green) must only be mated with other SC/APC connectors and SC/APC adapters. Mating APC with SC/PC or SC/UPC physically damages the angled ferrule and destroys the return loss performance of both connectors. Verify every component in the link.
Look for Green Color Coding
APC connectors and adapters are color-coded green across all manufacturers. If a connector, adapter, or patch panel port is not green, it is not APC. Always verify color coding before mating — especially in mixed-connector environments or when extending legacy infrastructure.
Customization & Special Builds
For non-standard lengths, plenum or LSZH jacket materials, armored cable, or specialized polarity configurations, iFiber Optix manufactures SC/APC assemblies to your exact project requirements — contact our team for custom specifications.
Why Choose iFiber Optix for SC/APC Connectors?
- Verified APC Return Loss Every SC/APC connector is tested to confirm ≥ 65dB return loss before shipment — verified by precision optical measurement, not assumed from manufacturing process alone. Critical for CATV and DWDM deployments where return loss is a system specification.
- Rigorous Quality Standards Manufactured to meet ANSI, IEC, TIA/EIA, and RoHS standards and tested for <0.1dB durability change over the full rated mating cycle count — ensuring consistent optical and mechanical performance throughout the product lifecycle.
- Broad Application Versatility Suitable for telecom networks, CATV, FTTH PON, LANs, DWDM systems, and industrial/medical applications — a single connector platform that covers the full range of APC-required fiber optic deployments.
- Custom Configurations Available Custom cable lengths, jacket materials (PVC, plenum, LSZH, armored), and connector configurations available — manufactured to your exact specifications for seamless integration into any new or existing SC/APC infrastructure.