Exploring MTP®/MPO-12 Cabling in 10G/40G/100G Networks
Updated at Mar 19th 20241 min read
MTP®/MPO-12 is a globally recognized standard interface for both multimode and single-mode applications. MTP®/MPO-12 has been in existence for several decades and is widely used as a multi-core cable connector for different applications. It is one of the most commonly used fiber core counts for high-density interconnect systems. In this article, we will explore the characteristics and advantages of MTP®-12 fiber cables, with a focus on its applications.
What Is MPO / MTP®-12 Fiber Cable？
MPO/MTP® fiber optic cables find extensive application in high-density data center cabling solutions owing to their compact size, high core count, and exceptional transmission rates. They are available in various configurations, including 8 cores, 12 cores, 16 cores, 24 cores, 48 cores, and more, catering to diverse connectivity needs.
MTP®/MPO 12 fiber cable refers to a type of optical fiber cable that utilizes MPO/MTP® connectors with 12 fibers. MTP®/MPO 12 cables include various components such as trunk cables, harnesses, PRO trunk cables, and convention cables. The selection of these products depends on different application scenarios for connectivity purposes. If you find it challenging to choose MPO/MTP® cables with different fiber counts, you can refer to our article MTP®/MPO 8 and MTP®/MPO 12 Cabling System, Which to Choose? for guidance.
The MPO-12 fiber connector was the first MPO connector that had enough repeatable performance and was widely accepted in data centers. By utilizing a base-12 MPO/MTP® connector for backbone construction, you essentially have the flexibility to accommodate any type of connection at the endpoints (such as LC, MTRJ, SC, etc). Therefore, adopting MTP®/MPO-12 cabling allows for adjustments over time, which is referred to as "future-proofing" or "migration." Many modern data centers are constructed using MPO 12 cable in the backbone, with MPO/MTP®-LC harnesses connecting the equipment, such as switches and servers.
Features of 12 Fibers MPO/MTP® Cable
Compact size, minimizing the required cabling space to the maximum extent.
Plug-and-play functionality, insensitive to bending, providing convenience and flexibility in usage.
Suitable for 10G, 40G, 100G, and 200G applications, catering to different configuration requirements.
Excellent performance with low insertion loss.
Fire-resistant and low-smoke properties, minimizing potential damage.
Application of MPO/MTP®-12 Fiber Cables
Solution 1: 40G Parallel Patching
The primary purpose of utilizing MTP®/MPO 12-strand fiber cables is for 40G parallel patching. By utilizing a base-12 fiber cable, you can establish a direct connection between two 40G optical modules at each end.
NO. | FS PN | Product |
① | MTP®-12 to MTP®-12 OM4 Multimode Elite Trunk Cable | |
② | QSFP+ 40GBASE-SR4 850nm 150m DOM Optical Transceiver Module | |
③ | Bare Metal Switch, 48-Port Ethernet L3 Data Center, 48 x 10Gb SFP+, with 6 x 40Gb QSFP+ Uplinks |
Solution 2: 100G Parallel to Parallel
The 100G Parallel to Parallel solution is specifically designed for scenarios where the two connections are slightly farther apart. In this solution, the core zone and access zone are interconnected using MTP®-12 cables. At both ends of the MPO 12 fiber cable, it is connected to base-12 MTP® fiber adapter panels. These adapter panels are then linked to the 12 fiber MTP® trunk cable, which ultimately connects to the 100G optical module.
NO. | FS PN | Product |
① | MTP®-12 to MTP®-12 OM4 Multimode Elite Trunk Cable | |
② | Fiber Adapter Panel, OM3/OM4, MTP®-8/12/24 Key Up to Key Up Adapter | |
③ | MTP®-12 to MTP®-12 OM4 Multimode Elite Trunk Cable | |
④ | QSFP28 100GBASE-ESR4 850nm 300m OM4 DOM Optical Transceiver Module |
Solution 3: 40G to 4x10G Interconnect
The 40G to 4x10G connection in the core zone employs a similar approach to Solution 2 but with a difference in the access zone. The 40G to 4x10G interconnect solution uses a base-12 breakout fiber cable to support four 10G links in the access zone. MTP®-12 trunk cables are used to connect the MTP®-12 fiber adapter panel located between the two areas.
NO. | FS PN | Product |
①⑤ | MTP®-12 to MTP®-12 OM4 Multimode Elite Trunk Cable | |
② | Fiber Adapter Panel MTP®-8/12/24 Key Up to Key Up Adapter | |
③ | MTP® Female to 4 LC UPC Duplex 8 Fibers OM4 50/125 Elite Breakout Cable | |
④ | SFP+ 10GBASE-SR 850nm 300m DOM Duplex Optical Transceiver Module | |
⑥ | QSFP+ 40GBASE-SR4 850nm 150m DOM Optical Transceiver Module |
Solution 4: 10G Trunk Cabling
The 10G trunk cabling solution utilizes a 12 strand fiber connection with an MPO/MTP®-12 connector at each end. This cable is then connected to a base-12 pre-terminated cassette. The cassette features 6 duplex LC connectors on its front, with each supporting 6 dual-core LC fiber optic cables. To ensure proper management and protection of the fiber optic cables, the cassette can be installed in a high-density rack mount enclosure. The 1U high-density rack mount enclosure can support up to 4 cassettes, accommodating a total of 144 LC fibers.
NO. | FS PN | Product |
① | MTP®-12 to MTP®-12 OM4 Multimode Elite Trunk Cable | |
② | FHD® MTP®-12 Cassette, 12 Fibers OM4 Multimode MTP® to 6 x LC Duplex | |
③ | LC UPC to LC UPC Duplex OM4 Multimode Fiber Optic Patch Cable | |
④ | SFP+ 10GBASE-S DOM Duplex LC/UPC MMF Optical Transceiver Module |
Conclusion
MTP®/MPO-12 fiber cables have emerged as a widely adopted standard for high-density data center cabling solutions. With their compact size, high core count, and exceptional performance, MTP®/MPO-12 cables enable efficient connectivity and future-proofing. Whether for 40G parallel patching, 100G parallel to parallel connections, or 10G trunk cabling, MTP®/MPO-12 cables offer versatile and reliable solutions for various network requirements.