Trunk fiber optic patch cords and breakout fiber optic patch cords are common types of fiber optic cables used in network systems to connect backbone and branch components or distribute signals. Below are their definitions and main differences:
1. Trunk Fiber Optic Patch Cord
A trunk fiber optic patch cord is a high-density, multi-fiber cable used to transmit large amounts of data traffic in backbone networks, often in data centers or the core parts of a network.
- Characteristics:
- Multi-fiber: Typically includes 12, 24, 48, or more fibers.
- High-density connections: Usually equipped with MPO/MTP connectors, supporting multiple fibers in a single connection.
- Purpose: Used for connecting optical distribution frames (ODFs) or switches in backbone networks.
- Performance: Ideal for high-bandwidth environments, such as 40G, 100G, or higher-speed networks.
- Typical Use Case:
High-density cabling in data centers, connecting distribution panels or high-speed devices.
2. Breakout Fiber Optic Patch Cord
A breakout fiber optic patch cord is designed to split multi-fiber cables into individual or multiple fibers, enabling connection to specific device ports or distributing signals to multiple devices.
- Characteristics:
- Branching design: One end is multi-fiber, while the other end branches into multiple individual fibers, each with its own connector.
- Connector types: One end typically has an MPO/MTP connector, while the other end has single-fiber connectors (e.g., SC, LC).
- Purpose: Distributes signals from a trunk cable to specific device interfaces.
- Flexibility: Directly connects to endpoint devices, making it ideal for distributed connections.
- Typical Use Case:
Connecting trunk networks to switches, servers, or transceivers, allowing signal distribution to multiple devices.
3. Key Differences
| Comparison | Trunk Fiber Patch Cord | Breakout Fiber Patch Cord |
|---|---|---|
| Design Structure | Multi-fiber cable without branching | Multi-fiber cable split into branches |
| Connector Type | Both ends use high-density connectors (e.g., MPO/MTP) | One end uses MPO/MTP, other end uses single-fiber connectors (e.g., LC/SC) |
| Application | High-density connections in backbone networks | Signal distribution to endpoint devices |
| Main Purpose | Large-scale, high-speed data transmission | Distributing signals to devices or ports |
| Flexibility | Fixed high-density connections | More flexible, directly connects to devices |
Summary
- Trunk fiber optic patch cords are designed for large-scale, high-density transmission in backbone networks.
- Breakout fiber optic patch cords focus on distributing signals from a trunk to individual devices, making them ideal for endpoint connectivity.
Both are often used together to create efficient and flexible optical communication networks.
