An SC single-core single-mode pigtail fiber is a short optical fiber with a single-mode core, pre-terminated with an SC connector on one end and a bare fiber on the other, used for fusion splicing and high-speed, long-distance optical transmission.

Definition and Structure

An SC single-core single-mode pigtail fiber consists of a short length of optical fiber with a single-mode core (typically 9/125 µm core/cladding) and a pre-terminated SC connector on one end, while the other end remains bare for splicing . The SC (Subscriber Connector) features a push-pull coupling mechanism, and the connector can be polished as UPC (Ultra Physical Contact) or APC (Angled Physical Contact). APC connectors have an 8° angled ferrule to minimize back reflection, making them ideal for sensitive optical networks .

Function and Applications

The primary purpose of a pigtail fiber is to connect bare distribution fibers to pre-terminated fiber-optic components while maintaining low insertion loss and high signal integrity . The bare end is typically fusion-spliced to a fiber in a distribution cable or network panel, and the connectorized end plugs into adapters, patch panels, or active equipment. SC single-core single-mode pigtails are widely used in:

• FTTH (Fiber to the Home) and GPON networks
• Telecommunications backbone links
• Data centers and enterprise LANs
• CATV and high-precision optical systems

Key Specifications

• Fiber Type: Single-mode (OS2)
• Core/Cladding Diameter: 9/125 µm
• Connector Type: SC (UPC or APC)
• Insertion Loss: Typically ≤0.2 dB for SC/APC pigtails
• Jacket: Often LSZH (Low Smoke Zero Halogen) for indoor safety

Advantages

• Low back reflection with APC connectors (< -60 dB)
• High-speed, long-distance transmission capability
• Ease of installation via fusion splicing
• Compatibility with standard SC adapters and panels In summary, an SC single-core single-mode pigtail fiber is a critical component in optical networks, providing a reliable interface between bare fibers and connectorized equipment, ensuring minimal signal loss and high-quality transmission over long distances .