Network Connectors - N10-008 CompTIA Network+ : 1.3

Summary

The video script discusses various fiber optic and copper connectors used in networking. It covers LC, ST, SC, and MT-RJ fiber connectors, emphasizing their locking mechanisms and space efficiency. The script also explains return loss and the difference between UPC and APC connectors. Additionally, it introduces copper connectors like RJ11 for voice communication and RJ45 for Ethernet, highlighting their construction and common applications. Lastly, it mentions F-connectors used in coaxial cables for cable modems.

Takeaways

• 🌐 The LC connector is popular for its small size and dual fiber capability, fitting many into a small space on routers and switches.
• 🔐 The ST connector uses a bayonet locking mechanism, requiring a twist to lock and untwist to release.
• 🔲 SC connectors, also known as square connectors, have a unique spring-loaded locking mechanism.
• 🔗 The MT-RJ connector is very small and ideal for high-density fiber applications, with a similar locking mechanism to the LC.
• 💡 Return loss is a critical statistic in fiber optics, affecting the efficiency of light transmission.
• 📉 UPC connectors have a high return loss due to their 0-degree connection angle.
• 📈 APC connectors have a lower return loss because of their 8-degree angled connection, reducing light reflection back to the source.
• 📞 RJ11 connectors are commonly used for voice communication, with six positions but only two conductors in use.
• 🌐 RJ45 connectors are used for Ethernet and have eight positions with all conductors in use, differing in size from RJ11.
• 📡 Coaxial cables typically use F-connectors, commonly found on cable modems and following DOCSIS standards.

Q & A

What is an LC connector and why is it popular?

An LC connector, also known as a local connector, is a small fiber optic connector that typically houses two different fibers for send and receive. It is popular because of its compact size, allowing many connectors to fit into a relatively small space, which is ideal for recent routers and switches.

How do you remove an LC connector from an interface?

To remove an LC connector from an interface, you need to push down on the locking mechanism at the top of the connector to disengage the lock, and then you can pull it out.

What is an ST connector and how does its locking mechanism work?

An ST connector, or straight tip connector, is a slightly larger connector that has been around for a longer time. It uses a bayonet locking mechanism, which means you plug it in and slightly twist it to lock it in place. To remove it, you untwist and then pull.

Can you describe the SC connector and how it locks into place?

The SC connector, or subscriber connector, is a square connector that may be connected individually or simultaneously. It locks into place with a unique mechanism that secures it once pushed in. To release it, you pull back on the spring-loaded connector around the fiber.

What is the MT-RJ connector and why might a manufacturer choose to use it?

The MT-RJ connector, or mechanical transfer registered jack, is a very small connector with two tiny fiber connectors at the end. It is chosen by manufacturers looking to fit the maximum number of fiber connectors into the smallest available space due to its minimal real estate requirement on a switch or router.

How does the UPC connector contribute to high return loss?

The UPC connector, or ultra-polished connector, has a high return loss because the ferrules connect at a 0-degree angle, facing each other directly. This causes light to reflect back to the source, creating inefficiency.

What is the difference between APC and UPC connectors in terms of return loss?

The APC connector, or angled polished connector, has a lower return loss compared to the UPC connector because it has a slight 8-degree angle between the connector types, which reflects light back at an angle away from the source, reducing return loss.

What is an RJ11 connector and what is it commonly used for?

An RJ11 connector is a sixth-position connector typically used for voice communication, such as DSL connections or analog telephone connections. It is often referred to as 6P2C because only two of the six positions have conductors inside.

How does an RJ45 connector differ from an RJ11 connector?

An RJ45 connector is slightly larger than an RJ11 and is used for Ethernet connections. It has eight positions, and all eight conductors are used, unlike the RJ11 which is a sixth-position connector with only two conductors in use.

What is the purpose of an F-connector in a cable modem?

An F-connector is used on a coaxial cable for cable modems and follows the DOCSIS standards. It is commonly threaded to ensure a secure connection that cannot easily be removed from the cable modem.

Why might someone encounter issues when plugging an RJ11 cable into an RJ45 connector?

People might plug an RJ11 cable into an RJ45 connector by mistake, which will not work properly because the connectors are different sizes. This can cause troubleshooting issues as the RJ11 is smaller and not all pins are used.