(... Back to Fiber Optics Knowledge Base)
What is the difference between fiber optic Patchcords / cables and fiber pigtails?
While the two assemblies may appear similar, their practical applications differ significantly. Fiber optic cables are characterized by having connectors on both ends, which can be of the same or different types, such as LC, SC, FC, ST etc.
These cables come in various configurations, including simplex (one fiber), duplex (two fibers), or multi-fiber options like MTP / MPO cables. In contrast, fiber pigtails have a connector on one end and a broken end of the fiber core on the other. Fiber cables can be modified to function as a pigtail by cutting off the connector.
Fiber pigtails are typically shorter and are used for short-distance connections between fiber optic devices, such as fiber distribution frames and terminal boxes. The bare ends of the connector-less pigtail, is often fused with the optical cable, which is a process to ensure accurate alignment of the optical fiber.
Applications
Fiber optic cables are primarily used for connecting optical cable terminals to devices, facilitating connections between switches, and are essential in fiber optic communication systems, access networks, and local area networks.
Optosun have a wide range of Fiber pigtail products and Fiber Optic Patchcord / cables