The Difference Between Fiber Pigtails and Fiber Optic Cables

While both fiber pigtails and fiber optic cables play important roles in optical networks, they have distinct characteristics and applications. In this article, we will discuss the differences between fiber pigtails and fiber optic cables and provide insights into splicing methods. Can a patch cord be used as a fiber optic pigtail by cutting it in the middle of the cable? Let's find out.

What is Fiber Pigtail?

A fiber optic pigtail is a type of optical fiber cable that has a pre-attached connector on one end, with the opposite end left without termination. This design enables the connector end to be conveniently linked to devices, while the unterminated end can be spliced with additional optical fiber cables. Fiber optic pigtails are typically devoid of a jacket, so they can be spliced and subsequently safeguarded in a fiber splice tray using a mechanical or thermal splice joint protector. Click our article Fiber Optic Pigtail: What Is It and How to Splice It? to get more information.

What is Fiber Optic Cable?

Fiber optic cable, also known as fiber patch cords, is a type of high-speed transmission medium used for transmitting data over long distances. It consists of one or more strands of optically pure glass fibers, surrounded by protective layers. Fiber optic cables can be equipped with connectors of the same type at both ends or different types. For instance, they can have LC connectors on both ends or an LC connector on one end and an SC connector on the other end. Fiber cables are available in various configurations, including simplex (1 fiber), duplex (2 fibers), or with multiple fiber counts like MTP®/MPO cables (8/12/16/24/48/72 fibers).

What Are the Differences in Their Applications?

Fiber pigtails are typically of shorter length, ranging from a few meters to tens of meters. Therefore, they are typically used for short-distance connections between fiber optic devices, such as optical distribution frames (ODFs), fiber terminal boxes, and distribution boxes. They are used for quick and convenient equipment connections, providing reliable fiber optic connectivity.

Compared to pigtails, patch cords typically consist of fixed-length optical fibers used to connect modules on fiber distribution frames, as well as connections between equipment or fiber distribution frames. Patch cords are widely used to connect fiber optic terminations and patch panels in the following areas:

Fiber optic communication systems

Access networks

Data transmission

Local area networks

How to Splice Pigtails and Test Connection?

Prepare the fibers: Strip the protective coating from the end of the pigtail and the cable, exposing the bare fiber. Use fiber stripping tools to carefully remove the coating, ensuring the fiber.

Clean the fibers: Clean both the pigtail and the cable fibers using lint-free wipes and a suitable cleaning solution. This step is crucial to remove any contaminants that could affect the splice quality.

Fusion splicing: If using fusion splicing, align the prepared pigtail fiber and cable fiber together. The fusion splicer will typically have alignment guides or V-grooves to assist in aligning the fibers accurately. Once aligned, let the fusion splicer automatically fuse the fibers using heat, creating a permanent and low-loss splice.

Mechanical splicing: If using mechanical splicing, insert the prepared pigtail patch cord and fiber cable into the splice connector, following the instructions. Secure the fibers in place using screws or other mechanisms provided by the splice connector.

Verify and test the splice: After completing the splice, use a fiber optic power meter or an OTDR (Optical Time Domain Reflectometer) to measure the splice loss and ensure it falls within acceptable limits. This step helps verify the quality of the splice and troubleshoot any issues if necessary.

Summary

In simple terms, fiber patch cord = fiber optic connector + fiber optic cable + fiber optic connector. In contrast, fiber pigtail = fiber optic connector + fiber optic cable. By understanding the differences between fiber optic cables and fiber pigtails, you can make informed decisions. At FS, we provide a wide selection of pigtail products to cater to your specific needs. Register today to discover the ideal pigtail patch cord solution that perfectly aligns with your network infrastructure.