The difference between MPO cable and dual-core LC

　　There are significant differences between MPO cables and dual-core LCs in several ways. Here is a detailed comparison of the two:

　　First, design and structure

　　MPO cable

　　Appearance: The MPO cable features a flat, rectangular design that integrates multiple fiber optic cores in a single connector. Common versions are 12-core and 24-core.

　　Size: Usually much larger than LC connectors.

　　Connection mechaniSM: Using the push-pull locking mechanism, there is no need to rotate to unlock or lock the connector. It can be connected with a single push, and it can be easily unplugged with another pull.

　　Dual core LC

　　Appearance: The LC connector appears as a small circular or nearly rectangular shape, significantly smaller in size than the MPO connector.

　　Number of optical fibers: typically contains only one or more than two optical fibers (i.e. two in a dual-core LC).

　　Connection mechanism: Although it is also push-pull, the LC connector requires a slight rotating motion to release or activate the locking device when inserted or removed.

　　Application scenarios and functions

　　MPO cable

　　Application scenarios: Widely used in data centers and high-density cabling environments, especially where a large number of fiber optic connections are required, such as between switches, routers, and storage devices.

　　Features: The ability to connect multiple fibers in a small space is characterized by high density, fast connection and easy installation. MPO cables can accommodate up to 12 to 144 fibers in a small size, which greatly saves space and simplifies the deployment of large-scale optical networks.

　　Dual core LC

　　Application scenarios: More suitable for conventional point-to-point fiber optic connections, such as inside buildings or in optical networks over short distances.

　　Functional features: Compact and easy to install, often used to connect dual fiber modules, such as 1.25G Gigabit dual fiber modules, 10G Gigabit dual fiber modules, etc.

　　III. Compatibility and flexibility

　　MPO cable

　　Compatibility: Compatible with MPO connectors and adapters for easy connection with other MPO cables and devices, simplifying network deployment and management.

　　Flexibility: Provides a variety of length and configuration options, which can be selected according to specific application requirements to meet the wiring requirements in different scenarios.

　　Dual core LC

　　Compatibility: The LC connector has a standard tail sleeve, which is suitable for fiber optic cables with a diameter of 0.9mm, and can be used on single-core, double-core (double-core clip) products.

　　Flexibility: Although not as flexible as MPO cables, they perform well in specific application scenarios, such as point-to-point connections.

　　IV. Summary

　　To sum up, there are significant differences between MPO cables and dual-core LC in terms of design and structure, application scenarios and functions, compatibility and flexibility. MPO cables perform well in high-density cabling environments due to their high density, fast connection and easy installation, while dual-core LC occupies a place in conventional fiber optic connection scenarios due to its small and easy installation and suitability for point-to-point connections. When choosing, trade-offs and choices should be made according to specific application scenarios and needs.