UPC vs. APC Connectors. Which one?

APC (Angled Physical Contact) Connectors

  • Endface: Features an 8-degree angled polish.
  • Color: Green
  • Performance: Provides lower back reflection (high return loss), as the angled surface sends reflected light into the cladding.
  • Best For: High-precision applications like long-distance fiber runs, high-speed networks, and systems that are sensitive to signal reflection
  • Incompatibility: Incompatible with UPC connectors

UPC (Ultra Physical Contact) Connectors

  • Endface: Slight curved or domed polished surface.
  • Color: Blue or Black
  • Performance: Offers good performance, though with higher back reflection compared to APC.
  • Best For: General purpose applications such as short to medium distance connections (i.e. LANs).
  • Incompatibility: Incompatible with APC connectors
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