Ferrule Types

PC (Physical Contact) ferrule refers to a specific type of fiber optic connector ferrule end-face configuration. The PC ferrule features a slight curvature on the end-face, which ensures physical contact between mating connectors, resulting in reduced back reflection and improved signal performance. PC ferrules are commonly used in fiber optic connectors such as SC, FC, and LC, providing reliable and low-loss fiber optic connections in various applications, including telecommunications, data centers, and networking.

APC (Angled Physical Contact) ferrule is a type of fiber optic connector ferrule end-face configuration. Unlike the flat end-face of a PC ferrule, the APC ferrule has a polished angled surface, typically at an angle of 8 degrees. This angled surface helps to minimize back reflection or return loss, resulting in improved signal performance and lower insertion loss compared to PC connectors. APC ferrules are commonly used in applications where low back reflection is critical, such as in long-haul communications, fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) networks, and high-speed data transmission. They are often found in connectors like SC-APC, FC-APC, and LC-APC.

UPC (Ultra Physical Contact) ferrule is a type of fiber optic connector ferrule end-face configuration. UPC ferrules feature a polished end-face with a slight curvature, similar to PC ferrules. However, UPC ferrules have a higher level of precision in the polishing process, resulting in even better physical contact between mating connectors. This improved contact reduces back reflection and insertion loss, making UPC ferrules suitable for applications where reliable signal performance is crucial, such as in telecommunications, data centers, and high-speed networks. UPC ferrules are commonly used in connectors like SC-UPC, FC-UPC, and LC-UPC.

 

PC APC UPC Ferrule

APC Ferrule

PC Ferrule

UPC Ferrule