MPO / MTP vs. SC
Comparing 2 standards across 12 specifications. 12 key differences identified.
The MPO connector (Multi-fiber Push On, TIA-604-5 / FOCIS-5; US Conec MTP) is a high-density parallel optical connector utilizing a precision molded rectangular MT ferrule that houses 8, 12, 16, 24, 32, or 72 optical fibers in a single push-pull housing, standard for 40G, 100G, 400G, and 800G multi-lane transceivers.
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
12 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
Standard / FOCIS
|
TIA-604-5-D (FOCIS-5) / IEC 61754-7 | TIA-604-3-B (FOCIS-3) / IEC 61754-4 |
|
Latching Mechanism
|
Push-pull sliding sleeve | Push-pull snap-in rectangular housing |
|
Polish Types Available
|
Flat (Multi-Mode UPC) and 8-degree Angled (Single-Mode APC) | UPC (Blue), APC (Green–standard for FTTH PON) |
|
Typical Insertion Loss
|
0.15–0.35 dB | 0.20–0.30 dB |
|
Ferrule Type
|
Rectangular MT (Mechanically Transferable) polymer | — |
|
Standard Fiber Counts
|
8, 12, 16, 24, 32, or 72 fibers | — |
|
Alignment Mechanism
|
Stainless guide pins (Male) / guide holes (Female) | — |
|
Polarity Methods (TIA-568.3)
|
Method A (Straight), Method B (Cross), Method C (Pair-flipped) | — |
|
Ferrule Diameter
|
— | 2.5 mm |
|
Ferrule Material
|
— | Zirconia ceramic |
|
Fiber Modes Supported
|
— | Single-Mode (OS2) and Multi-Mode (OM1–OM4) |
|
Standard Duplex Pitch
|
— | 12.7 mm |