What is an SC/APC Fiber Patch Cable?
An SC/APC fiber patch cable is a fiber optic jumper that uses SC (Subscriber Connector) connectors with APC (Angled Physical Contact) polish on both ends. The 8-degree angled end-face reduces back reflection to below -60dB, making it the preferred choice for CATV networks, FTTH deployments, and long-haul telecom applications where signal integrity is critical.
Unlike UPC (Ultra Physical Contact) connectors which have a flat polish, APC's angled design directs reflected light into the cladding rather than back into the source. This is why SC/APC is the standard for RF video overlay in GPON networks and high-precision measurement equipment.
Key Specifications of SC/APC to SC/APC OS2 Patch Cables
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Connector Type | SC/APC to SC/APC |
| Fiber Mode | OS2 Single Mode 9/125µm |
| Insertion Loss | ≤0.3dB |
| Return Loss | ≥60dB (APC) |
| Fiber Grade | G.657.A1 (Compatible with G.652.D) |
| Cable Jacket | PVC / LSZH (Low Smoke Zero Halogen) |
| Min. Bend Radius | 10mm (fiber core) / 10/5D Dynamic/Static |
| Wavelength | 1310/1550nm |
| Attenuation | 0.36 dB/km @ 1310nm, 0.22 dB/km @ 1550nm |
| Available Lengths | 1m, 2m, 3m, 5m, 10m, 15m, 20m (3ft to 66ft) |
Why SC/APC is the Standard for CATV Networks
In CATV (Cable Television) networks, RF video signals are transmitted alongside data on the same fiber. Any back reflection in the connector creates visible interference on TV channels -- ghosting, static, or signal dropout. The APC polish with ≥60dB return loss eliminates this problem entirely.
For FTTH (Fiber to the Home) deployments using GPON technology, the downstream RF video overlay (1550nm) requires APC connectors at every termination point. This is why most telecom standards worldwide mandate SC/APC for outside plant connections.
Armored vs Standard: Which Do You Need?
Our SC/APC patch cables come in both standard PVC and armored versions. Armored cables have a stainless steel interlocking jacket that protects against:
- Rodent damage in underground conduits
- Crushing in cable trays and patch panels
- Harsh industrial environments with oil and moisture
- Repeated flexing in mobile/field deployment scenarios
For data center use, standard PVC or LSZH jackets are sufficient. For outside plant, industrial, or field deployment, choose the armored version.
Price Comparison: Langzhi vs FS.com
| Product | FS.com Price | Langzhi Price | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| SC/APC-SC/APC 1m Simplex OS2 | $3.10 | $0.74 | 76% off |
| SC/APC-SC/APC 3m Simplex OS2 | $3.30 | $0.89 | 73% off |
| SC/APC-SC/APC 10m Simplex OS2 | $4.20 | $1.40 | 67% off |
Applications
- CATV Networks: RF video overlay transmission in HFC architectures
- FTTH Deployments: Last-mile fiber connections with GPON/EPON OLT to ONT
- Telecom Central Offices: Patching between ODF panels and network equipment
- Data Centers: High-density fiber patching requiring APC polish for analog optics
- Industrial Networks: Armored version for harsh manufacturing environments
- Test & Measurement: Reference cables for OTDR and insertion loss testing
Why Buy from Langzhi?
Langzhi manufactures SC/APC patch cables directly in our factory in Shenzhen, China. Every cable is 100% tested for insertion loss and end-face geometry before shipping. With 6,000+ units sold and 13 reviews averaging 5 stars, our customers trust the quality.
We ship worldwide via DHL, FedEx, and UPS with tracking. Orders over $50 ship free. Need custom lengths or connector combinations? Contact us for OEM/ODM bulk pricing.
