The polarity in the MTP/MPO system

The MTP/MPO system is a standardized fiber optic connector commonly used in high-speed data transmission applications. One of the key features of this connector is its polarity, which plays a critical role in ensuring proper signal transmission. In this article, we will discuss the polarity in the MTP/MPO system, including what it is, why it is important, and how it is achieved.

What is polarity in the MTP/MPO system?

In fiber optic communications, polarity refers to the way in which fibers are connected between different components in a network. Specifically, it refers to the orientation of the fibers relative to each other, which determines the path that the signal will take through the network. In the MTP/MPO system, polarity is achieved by using different types of connectors and adapters that align the fibers in a specific way.

The MTP/MPO connector is a multi-fiber push-on/pull-off (MPO) connector that allows for the connection of multiple fibers in a single plug. The connector has a row of pins on one side and a row of holes on the other side, with each pin and hole corresponding to a specific fiber. The connector is designed to be used with a variety of adapters that provide different types of alignment, depending on the desired polarity.

There are three basic types of polarity in the MTP/MPO system: Type A, Type B, and Type C. Each type of polarity corresponds to a different way of aligning the fibers in the connector, which determines the path that the signal will take through the network.

Why is polarity important?

Polarity is critical in fiber optic communications because it determines the path that the signal will take through the network. If the polarity is incorrect, the signal will be lost or distorted, resulting in poor network performance. This is particularly important in high-speed data transmission applications, where even minor signal losses can have a significant impact on performance.

In addition to ensuring proper signal transmission, polarity is also important for network maintenance and troubleshooting. By using standardized polarity schemes, network administrators can easily identify and correct polarity issues in the network, which can help to minimize downtime and improve overall network performance.

How is polarity achieved in the MTP/MPO system?

As mentioned earlier, there are three basic types of polarity in the MTP/MPO system: Type A, Type B, and Type C. Each type of polarity corresponds to a different way of aligning the fibers in the connector, which determines the path that the signal will take through the network. Let's take a closer look at each type of polarity.

Type A polarity: In Type A polarity, the fibers are aligned such that fiber 1 at one end is connected to fiber 1 at the other end, fiber 2 is connected to fiber 2, and so on. This is achieved by using a key-up to key-down adapter, which flips the connector over and maintains the same fiber-to-fiber alignment.

Type B polarity: In Type B polarity, the fibers are aligned such that fiber 1 at one end is connected to fiber 12 at the other end, fiber 2 is connected to fiber 11, and so on. This is achieved by using a key-up to key-up adapter, which swaps the positions of the pins and holes in the connector.

Type C polarity: In Type C polarity, the fibers are aligned such that fiber 1 at one end is connected to fiber 2 at the other end, fiber 2 is connected to fiber 1, fiber 3 is connected to fiber 4, and so on. This is achieved by using a key-up to key-up adapter, which flips the connector over and swaps the positions of the pins and holes in the connector.