Ever wondered how your devices connect to the internet or share data with each other? The answer lies in crucial components known as patch cords. These seemingly simple cables play a crucial role in establishing communication between various devices, forming the backbone of countless networks. But what exactly are patch cords, and how do they work?

What are Patch Cords

Patch cords, also known as patch cables or patch leads, are short, flexible cables used to connect electronic devices for signal routing. They typically have connectors on both ends that plug into the corresponding ports on the devices they are connecting, allowing them to communicate and exchange information.

Types of Patch cords

Patch cords come in various forms, each catering to specific needs:

SC/APC to SC/APC Single-mode Patch Cord

The single-mode patch cord ULTIMODE PC-522S2 is a 3-meter long fibre optic cable with SC/APC connectors on both ends, which are widely used due to their simple push-pull coupling, rectangular cross-section, and plastic construction. The ferrule of the SC/APC connector is polished at an 8-degree angle.

ULTIMODE patch cords are known for their high quality, low attenuation, and back reflection. They use the highest quality ferrules and each patchcord undergoes individual quality control which includes the inspection of surfaces and measurement of transmission parameters. The cable is reinforced with aramid fibres (Kevlar) and covered with a PVC sheath.

The G.657.A2 fibre used in the patch cord is compatible with existing single-mode fibre-optic networks and suitable for high-quality splicing. This single-mode fibre is one of the most advanced and popular fibres on the market and can be formed into tight coils with reduced attenuation.

At 1310 nm, the attenuation rate of the G.657.A2 fibre is less than 0.35 dB/km, and at 1550 nm, the attenuation rate is less than 0.20 dB/km. Another unique feature of this fibre is that it has reduced attenuation of coils, for example, less than 0.03 dB for 10 turns with a radius of 15 mm and less than 0.5 dB for 1 turn with a radius of 7.5 mm at 1550 nm.

Fibre Patch Cord Multi Mode ST-ST

The Fibre Patch Cord Multi Mode ST/ST conforms to the IEC 874-7 industry standards and is designed to offer a cost-effective solution that delivers higher bandwidth and transmission rates. It's specifically made for the utilization of narrower aperture components and is therefore fully compatible with multi-mode (OM2) applications.

This cable's moulding process ensures that each connection has greater durability and can resist pulls, strains and impacts from cabling installers. Additionally, before being received by the customer, each cable undergoes a 100% optical inspection and testing for insertion loss.

The Fibre Patch Cord Multi Mode ST/ST features ST Duplex Male connectors on both ends. Available configurations include Fibre Patch Cord Multi Mode ST/ST -1m and Fibre Patch Cord Multi Mode ST/ST -2m.

Applications of patch cords

Patch cords are widely used in both single-mode and multi-mode networks to achieve fast and reliable data transmission. They can be utilized in a wide range of applications including:

Local Area Network (LAN)

Patch cords are crucial to connect devices in LANs, such as computers, switches, and servers. They provide a direct connection between the devices to ensure fast and reliable data transmission. In addition, patch cords for LANs can be made in custom lengths, which is very useful for optimising cable management. In a data center, patch cords make up the horizontal cabling that connects switches to servers, for example.

Telecommunication

Patch cords are used to connect telephone lines in telecommunication networks. They are essential for voice transmission and signaling across the network.

Data centers

In a data center, patch cords connect switches, routers, servers, and storage devices. A data center patch cord typically has a higher density than other environments because of the high volume of hardware they interconnect. In a datacenter, a typical patch cord is LC/LC or LC to MTP/MPO.

Cable Television Systems

Cable Television systems use patch cords to connect different components of the network. For example, patch cords can be used to connect remote cable nodes to the network headend.

Medical applications

Patch cords are used in imaging and diagnostic devices in the medical industry. The devices use optical fibres to transmit images and other data over a short distance.

Military and Aerospace

The military and aerospace industry use patch cords in harsh environments such as battlefields and aeroplanes. Patch cords used in military and aerospace applications are specifically designed to cope with high-stress environments, including vibration, extreme temperatures, and humidity.

Benefits of Patch Cords

Patch cords offer a multitude of benefits that contribute to efficient and reliable network connectivity:

Flexibility

Patch cords are available in various lengths, which makes it easy to create custom configurations for specific applications. They can be used to connect devices that cannot be mounted close to each other, providing deployment flexibility. They are also easy to install and can quickly be removed and replaced to troubleshoot faulty connections.

High Bandwidth

Patch cords can support high bandwidth demands, making them suitable for applications in which high-speed data and fast transmission rates are required.

Enhanced Connectivity

Connectivity is an integral part of any network; patch cords enable improved connectivity and reduce packet loss. The use of a high quality patch cord reduces the chances of network downtime, which is particularly essential in data centers.

Reduced Interference

Patch cords are isolated from external electromagnetic fields, reducing interference and lowering the risk of data loss.

Standards Compliance

Patch cords come in different standards complying with different applications. For example, patch cords for multi-mode and single-mode fibres comply with different standards, and each meets the demands of its required applications.

Easy to Troubleshoot

If a network has a faulty connection, patch cords can be used for point-to-point testing to identify the source of the problem.

Cost-Effective

Patch cords provide a cost-effective solution to expand existing networks, change network designs or implement upgrades. They are affordable, which significantly reduces the overall cost of network deployment and maintenance.