MPO interface: an efficient solution for fiber optic communication

MPO Interface Technology: Empowering High-Speed Optical Communication

With the rapid progress of information technology, the demand for high-speed data transmission continues to grow. Among the many transmission media, optical fiber stands out for its exceptional bandwidth, speed, and immunity to electromagnetic interference, making it a key component of modern communication systems. In particular, the MPO (Multi-fiber Push On) interface has emerged as a widely adopted solution in high-density optical networks.

1. Introduction to the MPO Interface

The MPO (Multi-fiber Push-On/Pull-Off) connector is a standardized optical interface designed to support high-density fiber terminations. It allows multiple fibers—typically 12 cores arranged in a row—to be connected simultaneously through a single interface. Depending on the number of fiber rows within the connector, it may support 12-core single-row or 24-core multi-row configurations, and complies with the IEC 61754-7 standard.

MPO connectors are classified based on several parameters: fiber count, gender (male/female), polarity (Keying position), and end-face polish (PC or APC). Connection rules must be followed: matching core counts (e.g., 12-to-12 or 24-to-24), one male connector mated with one female, and identical polish types (e.g., PC-to-PC or APC-to-APC) must be used to ensure compatibility and performance.

The polarity of an MPO connector is controlled by the Key position, with two keying options: Key Up and Key Down. MPO adapters are used to align connectors properly, typically categorized into Type A (Key Up–Key Down) and Type B (Key Up–Key Up). For single-mode APC connectors, which have an 8° angled end face, only Type A adapters are suitable to ensure correct physical and optical alignment.

2. MPO Connector Variants

There are two primary types of MPO connectors: Standard MPO and Mini-MPO. Furthermore, MPO interfaces are available in various forms, including adapters, backplane sockets, and PCB-mounted receptacles. Mini-MPOs are typically used for 1, 2, or 4-core connections and are frequently found in 40G, 100G, and 200G optical modules. Standard MPOs support up to 24 or more fibers and are widely used in 400G and 800G transceivers, making them suitable for high-throughput applications.

This classification allows the MPO interface to scale according to different deployment needs, ranging from compact optical connections to extensive backbone infrastructure.

3. Dimension Comparison: Mini-MPO vs. Standard MPO

The physical dimensions of MPO connectors vary based on their type. Mini-MPO connectors are sized at 4.4 mm x 2.45 mm, making them ideal for space-constrained installations or smaller fiber counts. In contrast, Standard MPO connectors measure 6.4 mm x 2.45 mm, accommodating larger fiber arrays and supporting more robust transmission requirements.

4. Practical Applications of MPO Interfaces

MPO connectors offer multiple advantages, including low insertion loss, high return loss, and excellent durability, making them an optimal choice for 40G and 100G network environments. MPO patch cords come in both straight-through and fan-out types. Fan-out variants can convert MPO connections to 2–24 fiber branches, using either 0.9 mm or 2.0 mm cables, with connector types like LC, SC, ST, or FC.

MPO interfaces are highly versatile and are used in a wide array of environments:

• Inter-building LAN cabling within enterprise campuses

• Fiber interconnects between active network devices

• Wiring for telecom base stations and distribution cabinets

• Fiber connections in data rooms for residential, industrial, or commercial buildings

• High-density wiring in smart building systems

• Cable television (CATV) infrastructures

• Telecommunications networks

• LANs, WANs, and FTTx systems

Their wide applicability and performance benefits make MPO connectors a cornerstone of future-proof fiber optic communication systems.