What is the difference between LC and SC fiber optic connectors?

Optical connectors are used to connect between data center network equipment and to connect fiber optics to customer premises equipment (such as FTTH). Among various types of fiber optic connectors, SC and LC are the two most commonly used connectors.

LC Fiber Optic Connectors

The LC is a small connector that uses a 1.25mm ferrule and is half the size of the SC. It is a standard ceramic ferrule connector that can be easily terminated with any adhesive. Good performance, very favored by single-mode. The LC uses a latch instead of the SC locking tab, which is called a miniature connector. Because it combines small size and latching functionality, making it ideal for densely installed racks/panels. Its steady growth in FTTH is likely to continue with the introduction of LC-compatible transceivers and active network components.

SC Fiber Connector

Introduced in 1991, the SC or standard connector is one of the oldest fiber optic connectors. Unlike LC connectors, it has a push-pull lock system that ensures a durable connection.

SC stands for Subscriber Connector and is a standard duplex fiber optic connector with a square molded plastic body and a push-pull locking feature. SC connectors are commonly used in datacom, CATV and telephony environments. SC is a snap-in connector that also has a 2.5mm ferrule and is widely used for its excellent performance, it is a snap-in connector that locks with a simple push-pull action

Magnitude

This is one of the basic differences between these two connectors. The ferrule size of the SC connector is 2.5mm, while the ferrule size of the LC is 1.25mm, which is exactly half the size of the SC connector. Due to their smaller size, LCs are more commonly used in offices and data centers, where there is more wiring, limited space for connections, and less space for LCs.

Design

SC is a true “push-pull-connector” and LC is a “latched connector”, although there are very innovative, real “push-pull-LCs” available which have the same handling capabilities like SC.

Lifespan

As mentioned earlier, LC connectors are relatively new. SC connectors are widely used around the world, but LC is also catching up. Both fiber optic connectors have the same insertion loss (loss of signal or packet) and return loss (measurement of the amount of light reflected back to the source) capability. Both connectors are designed to provide extremely fast and long-lasting connections.

Cost

Compared to SC, the cost of LC connectors is much higher. As LC designs are more complex and detailed, their manufacturing costs go up. In contrast, SC connectors are less expensive to manufacture.

Which one do you need?

If you need to use connectors for data centers or any other use where too many connectors are connected, then you definitely need LC connectors. Their compact and modern design will allow you to connect any number of connectors.

On the other hand, for general use like connecting fiber optic cables to computers, Wi-Fi routers, game consoles, etc., you need SC connectors. It offers reliable connectivity at a more affordable price.