Future-Proofing Your Network with MTP®/MPO Fiber Cables

With the widespread adoption of 5G communication and the continuous development of data centers, cloud computing, and related fields, the market prospects for 400G/800G are extensive. In the future, as technology continues to advance and costs continue to decrease, the adoption of MTP®/MPO cabling solutions will continue to expand. Let's delve into the significance of MTP®/MPO fiber cables in high-speed networks.

Importance of MTP®/MPO Fibers in High-Speed Networks

High-Density Connectivity and Simplified Installation

MTP®/MPO fiber cables offer various specifications, such as 8, 12, 16 or 24 fibers per connector, enabling high-density connectivity. For example, only up to 144 LC fibers can be managed in one FHD® 1U Rack Mount Enclosure, but for MTP®/MPO fiber, there can be up to 1,152 fibers (MTP®-24). This greatly increases fiber density in rack cabling and is excellent for data centers limited by serious space or the need to manage massive amounts of fibers. On the other hand, compared to traditional LC fibers, technicians can just spend less time installing MTP®/MPO fiber since its unique connector includes multiple fibers inside. This high-density capability allows for efficient space utilization and easier cable management.

High Bandwidth Support

MTP®/MPO fiber optic cables have the advantage of high bandwidth support in high-speed networks， especially MTP®/MPO OM5 fiber optic cable. MTP® OM5 offers higher capacity per fiber, allowing for longer reach and fewer fibers required in SWDM applications. The extended reach in 100G and 400G applications with an SWDM is 50% farther than OM4 in 400G, plus it uses 50% less fibers. For further insights into MTP® OM5 cables, it is recommended to explore the article Demystifying MTP® OM5 Cables: Everything You Need to Know.

Reduced Transmission Loss

MTP®/MPO fiber optic cables offer excellent optical properties, including low insertion loss (0.35dB Max /0.15dB Typ.) and high return loss (Multimode fiber≥20dB/Single-mode fiber≥60dB). These advantages help improve the transmission quality of optical signals and reduce losses in transmission, thereby ensuring the reliability and stability of high-speed networks.

MTP®/MPO Cables in High-Speed Network Applications

400G Connection with MTP®/MPO-16 Cable

In the 400G direct connection solution, 400G SR8 QSFP-DD optical modules are used at both ends, and an MTP®-16 cable is used in the middle. The term "SR8" - "SR" stands for a distance of 100 meters using multimode fiber, and "8" implies there exist 8 optical channels with each operating at 50Gbps. The MTP®-16 cable has 100% fiber utilization in this direct connection.

400G to 4×100G Connection with MTP®/MPO-8 Breakout Cable

The figure below shows a breakout cabling based on MTP®/MPO-8 cables. This solution offers connectivity from four 100G QSFP28-DR to a 400G QSFP-DD transceiver. It uses MTP®/MPO-8 breakout cables to transmit the signal across a Base-8 MTP®/MPO cabling.

Implementing MTP®/MPO Fiber Cables: Key Considerations

• Compatibility: Verify that your network equipment supports MTP®/MPO connectors and that the fiber type and polarity align with your requirements.

• Installation and Maintenance: Plan for proper cable management and labeling to facilitate troubleshooting, maintenance, and future modifications.

• Environmental Factors: Evaluate the environmental conditions for deploying MTP®/MPO fiber cables. Consider factors such as temperature, humidity, and exposure to chemicals or harsh elements. Ensuring that the installation environment is suitable will help maintain the optimal performance and longevity of the cables.

Conclusion

MTP®/MPO cabling solutions are gaining increasing popularity in high-speed networks due to their high-density connectivity, streamlined cable management, ability to support high bandwidth, and reduced transmission loss. By implementing MTP®/MPO cabling, you can future-proof your network infrastructure and fully unleash the potential of your data transmission capabilities.