MTP vs MPO connector: What is the difference?

The need for high-density cabling systems in data centers is increasing daily. With the advent of high-speed applications like 40G, 100G, and 400G Ethernet, data centers need to be equipped with the latest and most efficient cabling systems. MPO and MTP connectors are the two most popular options for high-density cabling systems. However, choosing a suitable connector can be difficult, especially if you are unfamiliar with their fundamental differences.

This article will help you understand the differences between MPO vs MTP fiber connectors. And help to make informed decisions about choosing the suitable connector for their cabling needs.

Table of Contents

What is MPO connector?
What is MTP connector?
MTP vs MTP connector
FAQs
Final words

But first, what is an MPO connector?

MPO stands for ‘Multi-Fiber Push On’. It is a multi-fiber connector (a single connector that houses multiple fiber counts) defined by IEC-61754-7 and TIA-604-5-D. NTT Group originally designed the connector concept. Compared with the traditional SC or LC fiber connector, the MPO connector provides much higher fiber density and reduces space. Therefore, it is a high-density fiber optic connector used in modern data center cabling systems.

The MPO features a rectangular plastic housing that holds up to 12, 16, or 24 fibers arranged in a row, two guide pins or holes in the connector, and a push-pull mechanism that allows quick installation and removal.

What is an MTP connector?

MTP stands for ‘Multi-fiber Termination Push-on’. It is a specific variant of the MPO connector produced by US Conec. The MTP connector is engineered with improved mechanical and optical performance. It is compatible with the MPO connector and can replace it.

In the above section, we have briefly introduced MPO and MTP connectors. Now, let us compare their differences.

Further Reading

Fiber Connector Types: A Complete Guide

MTP vs MPO connector: what is the difference?

1. Pin Clamp

MPO connectors typically have plastic pin clamps, which can easily break pins with constant cable mating, whereas MTP connectors have a metal pin clamp to ensure a tight clasp on the pins and reduce any unintended breakage when mating connectors. The oval spring is utilized in the MTP connector to increase the distance between the fiber ribbon and the spring, which can prevent the fiber ribbon from damage during insertion. The MTP cable design, incorporating a recessed pin clamp and oval spring, ensures a tight spring seat and wider clearance between the spring and the ribbon cable, reducing the possibility of MTP cable breakage.

2. Removable Outer Housing

The second significant difference is the connector housing. MTP uses the removable connector housing, while the generic MPO does not guarantee a removable housing. The removable housing provides some advantages:

Rework and repolish the MT ferrule
Easilly Change the gender after the assembly or even in the field
After assembly, use an interferometric scanner to scan the ferrule

3. Guide Pins

MTP and MPO connectors use different guide Pins. The MPO uses chamfer-shaped guide pins, while the MTP uses an elliptical stainless steel guide pins. Compared to MPO, these MTP elliptical-shaped pins can ensure better guidance. The decreased amount of debris on the end surface of the pupil or the wrap so that the MTP optical fiber connector is more long-lasting to maintain high-performance transmission.

MTP vs MPO connector guide pin — *Figure 2: MTP vs MPO guide pin*

4. Floating Ferrule

The fourth difference between MTP and MPO is the Floating Ferrule. MPO connectors usually use MT Ferrule, while MTP connectors upgrade it to floating ferrule.

The Floating Ferrule is a unique feature of MTP connectors that offers significant advantages over traditional connectors. The floating ferrule is used to improve mechanical performance in an MTP cable. The ferrule can float within to maintain physical contact across a mated pair under applied load. That allows two mated ferrules to maintain physical contact under an applied load, resulting in reduced insertion loss and improved alignment.

Moreover, the floating ferrule feature also helps to prevent dust and other debris from accumulating on the end surface of the ferrule, which could otherwise cause damage or reduce the connector’s performance. Overall, the floating ferrule feature is one of the critical advantages of MTP connectors, making them the preferred choice for high-density cabling systems in data centers.

5. Insertion-loss

As previously discussed, the differences between MPO and MTP connectors lead to different insertion loss levels. MTP connectors tend to have lower insertion loss than MPO connectors. For instance, the MTP multimode connector provides 0.6dB max insertion loss, while the MPO provides 0.75dB max insertion loss.

It’s essential to note that while the difference in insertion loss between the MTP and MPO connectors may seem small, it can make a significant difference in high-speed and long-distance applications. The lower the insertion loss, the less signal degradation, and the better the overall system performance.

FAQs about MTP vs MPO

Q: What is an MTP Elite?

A: The MTP® Elite version has reduced insertion loss than the standard MTP® connector. The maximum insertion loss for the multimode fiber cables is 0.35dB, while the standard type is 0.6 dB. The maximum insertion loss for the singlemode fiber cables is 0.35dB, while the standard type is 0.75 dB.

Q: What is an MTP PRO Connector?

The MTP® PRO connector is the latest plus version of the US Conec MTP®. Unlike the standard MTP connector, this connector provides the best field flexibility, convenience, and enhanced performance. MTP PRO connector allows quick and straightforward polarity change without removing connector housing in the field. Besides that, it also provides Field-friendly pin configuration while maintaining product integrity.

Q: Is the MTP connector also an MPO connector?

A: Yes. The MTP® connector is a high-performance MPO connector with improved mechanical and optical performance. It should be noted that all MTP®s are MPOs, but not all MPOs are MTP®s. An MTP connector is 100% interchangeable with its generic MPO-style product. However, in high-performance applications, an MPO connector is not operationally equal to an MTP.

Q: Since MTP cable performance is better, should I always choose it?

A: Only sometimes necessary. When selecting between them, it’s essential to consider your specific application requirements and budget. For instance, the MPO cable may be a more cost-effective option if you’re working with a limited budget. Additionally, suppose your application doesn’t require high-speed or long-distance transmission. In that case, the difference in insertion loss between the two connectors may not be significant enough to warrant the extra cost of the MTP cable. However, the MTP cable would be the better choice if you’re working on a high-speed and long-distance transmission application that requires low insertion loss. So consider all your specific application requirements, budget, and performance needs before deciding.

Final Words

To summarize, the MTP connector performs better than the MPO connector due to its superior design, including the removeable housing, floating ferrule and elliptical-shaped guide holes. However, when deciding between the two connectors, it’s essential to consider your specific application requirements and budget. Understanding the differences between these connectors can significantly improve your system’s performance and ensure that you get the most value for your investment.

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Network Cabling, Optical Networking