All You Need To Know About Fiber Array

Fiber arrays are used in fiber optic cables, so you might ask why you should bother learning about them. Well, you’ll understand that fiber optic cables are just not practical without them. They’re like a ladder or a frame in a cable and they literally hold the fibers together. Read the article to know more about what fiber arrays are.

Fiber Arrays:

A fiber array is a special type of fiber optic connection that lets you place several fiber optic cables together in a single fiber connector.  The fiber count of a fiber ribbon can vary from 2 to 24 fibers. Each fiber has its own coating and Kevlar reinforcing member which helps in maintaining the strength of the fiber..

Fiber arrays come in two different types: the MPO and the MTP. Both are typically used with multi-fiber cables, such as ribbon cables or tight buffer trunks.

What’s an MPO?

The MPO stands for “Multi-Fiber Push On,” and it’s also known as an MTP-type connector. This type of connector doesn’t let you see the individual fibers unless you disassemble it. It can hold anywhere from four to twelve fibers, depending on the alignment of the ferrule holes.

What’s an MTP?

The MTP stands for “Multi-Fiber Termination Push On.” Unlike the MPO, this type of connector does let you see all the individual fibers once you’ve assembled it. You can get an MTP in any number of fibers except for twelve.

The benefit of using these connectors is that they give you a single, compact connection with many times more data capacity than a traditional single-fiber connector like an SC or LC connector. Instead of trying to connect each fiber individually, all your fibers go into the same place and support each other.