Definition:

An optical fiber connector terminates the end of an optical fiber, and enables quicker connection and disconnection than splicing. The connectors mechanically couple and align the cores of fibers so light can pass. Better connectors lose very little light due to reflection or misalignment of the fibers. In all, about 100 fiber optic connectors have been introduced to the market. Lucent Connector A miniaturized version of the fiber-optic SC connector. It looks somewhat like the SC, but is half the size with a 1.25mm ferrule instead of 2.5mm.

What Does LC Mean in Fiber Optics? 

Given the variety of splice options available to fiber network planners today identifying the best connector for FTTH can be overwhelming. Consequently often not much thought is given to connector selection with choice driven by cost, availability or what’s been used before. However each connector has its own unique design and therefore, pros and cons. Over time or depending on project size this can have a dramatic impact on deployment speeds and costs.

A connector is an intervening device used to fasten or join. In fiber optics, connectors provide impermanent links between two optical cables, or a fiber optic cable and another optical component. Connectors must also maintain good optical contact between fibers at the connector interfaces.

The LC connector holds a single fiber in a 1.25 mm ceramic ferrule, half the size of the standard SC ferrule. LC connectors are examples of small form factor connectors. The connector body is made of moulded plastic, and features a square front profile. An RJ-style latch (like that on a phone jack) on the top of the connector provides easy, repeatable connections. Two LC connectors may be clipped together to form a duplex LC. The small size and push-in connections of LC connectors make them an excellent choice for high-density fiber applications, or for cross connects. See more LC Connectors.

Conclusion:

The LC connector is a small form factor fiber optic connector. The LC connector resembles a small SC connector. Lucent Technologies first developed the LC connector for TelCo environment uses. Hence, LC stands for Lucent Connectors.

The LC connector has been standardized as FOCIS 10 (Fiber Optic Connector Intermateability Standards) in EIA/TIA-604-10. The LC connector uses a 1.25 mm ferrule, half the dimension of the ST ferrule or a regular ceramic ferrule connector. The LC gives excellent performance and is greatly preferred for single mode transmission.