Multi-fiber connectors contain “keys” which maintain defined fiber polarity when the connectors are mated together. MPO / MTP® adapters contain an asymmetrical housing including an inverted key to achieve the appropriate fiber polarity.
On Type A adapters, the keys are inverted to ensure that the fiber at position 1 is connected to position 1 in the MPO / MTP® cable connector at the opposing end (in case of 12 fiber connectors).
On Type B adapters both keys are oriented facing up in order that both MPO / MTP® cable connectors are mated “key up” wise. The fiber at position 1 is connected to position 12 in the MPO / MTP® connector at the opposing end.
MPO connector
The MPO is an MT-ferrule based multi-fiber connector defined by the International Electro technical Commission (IEC 61754-7) and Telecommunications Industry Association & Electronic Industries Alliance (TIA / EIA 604-5). A male / female ferrule system ensures appropriate fiber alignment and low return loss values.
MTP® Connector
The registered trademark MTP® is an improved fiber optic connector from the company US Conec based on a generic MPO design. MTP® connectors are fully intermateable with con- ventional MPO connectors due to similar dimensi- ons from the MT-ferrule.
