LC/UPC to LC/UPC Single Mode Simplex (SM SX) patch cord

The LC/UPC Advantage: Small Size, Big Performance

The “LC” connector changed the game by utilizing a 1.25mm ceramic ferrule—exactly half the size of older SC or FC connectors. This allows engineers to pack 144 fibers into a single 1U rack space.

But it’s not just about size. The UPC (Ultra Physical Contact) polish, recognized by its Blue housing, ensures that the fiber end-faces meet with enough precision to keep back-reflection minimal, making it the ideal choice for high-speed digital data transmission.

Description

Technical Specs That Move Data

For the network architect, the numbers tell the story. Here is the 2026 performance profile for a premium LC/UPC Simplex jumper:

Metric Specification Engineering Value
Connector Type LC/UPC to LC/UPC High-density “Snap-in” latching
Fiber Core Single Mode (OS2) 9/125μm Optimized for 1310nm & 1550nm
Insertion Loss $\leq 0.2 \text{ dB}$ Industry-leading low power loss
Return Loss $\geq 50 \text{ dB}$ Crystal clear digital signal
Jacket Material LSZH (Yellow) Fire-safe, low-smoke, zero halogen
Bend Radius 10mm – 30mm Flexible for tight cable management

Why This Cable is a Network Essential

1. High-Density Ready

The “Small Form Factor” (SFF) design is the biggest selling point. You can stack these side-by-side in high-density ODFs (Optical Distribution Frames) without the “cable spaghetti” associated with larger connectors.

2. The “Click” of Confidence

The LC connector uses a familiar RJ45-style latching mechanism. You don’t need to guess if the connection is secure; that audible “click” tells you your light path is locked in.

3. Future-Proofed OS2 Fiber

While you might be running 1Gbps today, the Single Mode OS2 core inside this cable is rated for 10G, 40G, and even 100G+ speeds over long distances. It’s a “buy once, upgrade never” infrastructure investment.

4. Simplex Efficiency

Simplex (SX) cables are the lean choice for BiDi (Bi-directional) setups. By using a single strand for both TX and RX, you halve your cabling footprint and simplify your inventory.


Field Guide: Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use this Blue (UPC) cable in a Green (APC) port?

A: Definitely not. A UPC connector has a flat end-face, while an APC port is angled at 8 degrees. If you force them together, you’ll get an air gap that results in massive signal loss and potential physical damage to your equipment. Blue stays with Blue.

Q: Is there a difference between the yellow and aqua cables?

A: Yes! Yellow is the universal code for Single Mode (SM), which is what this LC/UPC-SM-SX cable uses. Aqua is typically used for Multimode (OM3/OM4). You cannot mix the two fiber types.

Q: Does the “Simplex” design limit my speed?

A: Not at all. The speed is determined by your transceivers (SFPs). A single fiber strand can carry massive amounts of data; “Simplex” just means you only have one physical lane of glass.

Q: How often should I clean the LC tips?

A: Every single time you plug it in. Because the LC ferrule is so small (1.25mm), even a microscopic speck of dust can block the entire 9-micron fiber core. Use a “One-Click” cleaner for the best results.

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