Installation guide
Parts of the fiber optic cable
FTTH Application Guide
109
UPC connectors are used for connecting to the MXK GPON line card.
UPC connectors have a -.55dB reflectance value.
• APC (Angled Physical Contact) connector
APC connectors are used for connecting to zNIDs. APC connectors have
an industry standard 8 degree angle on the end face of ferrule and have a
-.65db reflectance value.
Do not use APC and UPC except where they belong because the mismatch of
the UPC end (slightly spherical end) and the APC (angled end) could result in
an air gap between the two connectors, creating back reflection or other
optical loss conditions.
APC and UPC connectors use a coding standard:
• Blue: UPC
• Green: APC
Note: Older APC connectors may not use the industry standard 8
degree angle and the difference between the standardized end face
and a non-standard angled end face could result in an air gap
condition.
Zhone uses SC connectors only, not FC connectors.
Fiber handling best practices
You should never look into the end of a fiber connector or opening with the
naked eye. You should always use a scope.
• Do not handle pieces of optical fiber with fingers. Use tweezers or
adhesive tape to lift and discard any loose optical fiber ends.
Grasp only the connector housing when plugging or unplugging
connectors. Do not touch the fiber ends with bare fingers. If you
accidentally touch the end face of the fiber, inspect and clean the fiber end
face. If there is the possibility of fiber clippings wash your hands
immediately as the small bits of glass may not be visible and can cause
eye damage.
• You should wear rubber gloves when cleaning optical connections. The
gloves prevent contamination of the ferrule from skin oils. The gloves
also protect your hands from the isopropryl alcohol.
• You should use caution when handling optical fibers. Fiber clippings
should be put in a plastic container used solely for that purpose. Put the
optical fibers in a safe location during installation.
• Keep all optical ports and connectors securely covered with a connector
cap or a clean dust cap.