UPC (Ultra Physical Contact): The ferrule end face is polished for a flat finish, minimizing back reflections.
APC (Angled Physical Contact): The ferrule is polished at an angle, which reduces return loss and is used for high-precision applications.
The ferrule is a small cylindrical component within the connector that holds and aligns the optical fiber. It ensures precise alignment for efficient light transmission.
They work by aligning the core of two fibers precisely to allow light to pass through with minimal loss. The connector has a ferrule that holds the fiber in place while joining it to another fiber or a device.
Return loss measures the amount of light reflected back toward the source. Higher return loss values indicate better connector performance, as less signal is reflected.
Yes, fiber optic connectors can generally be reused, but their performance can degrade over time, especially if they are not properly maintained or cleaned. Connectors may need to be replaced if they show signs of wear or increased signal loss.