The differences and advantages and disadvantages of MPO connector and MTP connector

MPO and MTP are both types of multi-fiber connectors used in optical communication networks for high-density fiber optic connections. While both connectors look very similar, they have some differences in terms of performance, design, and cost. In this article, we will compare MPO and MTP connectors, discussing their advantages, disadvantages, and differences.

Design and Construction:

MTP connectors are designed and manufactured by US Conec, while MPO connectors can be made by various manufacturers. Both connectors are designed with a rectangular shape, but the MTP connector has a protruding latch that makes it easy to insert and remove. MTP connectors are also built with a floating ferrule design, which enables precise alignment and low insertion loss, while MPO connectors have a fixed ferrule design.

Advantages of MTP Connector:

High Performance: MTP connectors offer better performance than MPO connectors, with lower insertion loss, higher return loss, and higher bandwidth capabilities. This is because of the precision of their floating ferrule design, which enables better alignment and lower loss.

Easy to Install: MTP connectors are easy to install due to their push-pull latching mechanism that ensures a secure connection with a single click. They are also color-coded, so they are easy to identify and match with the corresponding adapter.

High-Density: MTP connectors are available in a range of configurations, from 4 to 72 fibers, allowing for high-density connectivity with minimum space requirements.

Versatility: MTP connectors are compatible with both single-mode and multimode fibers, making them an ideal choice for various applications.

Disadvantages of MTP Connector:

Cost: MTP connectors are more expensive than MPO connectors, mainly due to the precision of their manufacturing and design.

Fragility: The floating ferrule design of MTP connectors can make them more fragile and susceptible to damage if not handled with care.

Advantages of MPO Connector:

Lower Cost: MPO connectors are more cost-effective than MTP connectors, making them a popular choice for many applications.

Rugged Design: The fixed ferrule design of MPO connectors makes them more rugged and durable than MTP connectors, making them a better choice for harsh environments.

Easy to Maintain: MPO connectors are easy to maintain and clean, and their fixed design ensures they remain in place even in high vibration environments.

Disadvantages of MPO Connector:

Limited Performance: MPO connectors have a fixed ferrule design, which can result in higher insertion and return losses, making them less efficient than MTP connectors.

Limited Capacity: MPO connectors are available in a limited range of configurations, with a maximum of 12 fibers, making them less suitable for high-density applications.

Conclusion:

MTP and MPO connectors are both used in high-density optical communication applications. The main differences between the two connectors are their design, cost, and performance. While MTP connectors offer better performance and higher density, they are more expensive and fragile. MPO connectors, on the other hand, are more rugged and cost-effective but offer limited performance and capacity. The choice between the two connectors depends on the specific requirements of the application and the available budget.