FC vs. SC
Comparing 2 standards across 9 specifications. 7 key differences identified.
The FC connector (Ferrule Connector / Fiber Channel, TIA-604-4 / FOCIS-4) is a heavy-duty optical connector designed by NTT. Utilizing a 2.5 mm ceramic ferrule inside a threaded round nickel-plated metal coupling nut, it provides extreme mechanical retention in high-vibration environments and optical test instrumentation.
The SC connector (Subscriber Connector / Standard Connector, TIA-604-3 / FOCIS-3) is a push-pull optical fiber connector developed by NTT. Utilizing a 2.5 mm ceramic ferrule and a square molded plastic body, it is a primary standard in telecommunications and FTTH GPON/EPON installations.
Specification Comparison Table
9 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
Standard / FOCIS
|
TIA-604-4-B (FOCIS-4) / IEC 61754-13 | TIA-604-3-B (FOCIS-3) / IEC 61754-4 |
|
Ferrule Diameter
|
2.5 mm | 2.5 mm |
|
Ferrule Material
|
Zirconia ceramic | Zirconia ceramic |
|
Latching Mechanism
|
Threaded screw-on metal coupling nut | Push-pull snap-in rectangular housing |
|
Fiber Modes Supported
|
Single-Mode (OS2) and Multi-Mode | Single-Mode (OS2) and Multi-Mode (OM1–OM4) |
|
Typical Insertion Loss
|
0.15–0.30 dB | 0.20–0.30 dB |
|
Polish Types Available
|
UPC (Flat metal body) and APC (Step-keyed / cone body) | UPC (Blue), APC (Green–standard for FTTH PON) |
|
Keying Mechanism
|
Adjustable / fixed alignment key | — |
|
Standard Duplex Pitch
|
— | 12.7 mm |