Patch Cord: Functions, Uses, and Benefits for Your Network

A patch cord, also known as a patch cable, is a fiber optic cable made from glass fiber. It comes pre-fitted with connectors on each end and is commonly used by global data center providers to link devices to telecommunications networks. Patch cords offer fast, stable data transmission and are resistant to electrical interference. Primarily for indoor use, patch cords come in various types, including 1-core (simplex), 2-core (duplex), single mode, and multimode.
Functions of Patch Cord
Patch cords, often made of UTP fiber, function to connect passive and active devices, such as linking a patch panel to a switch or router, a faceplate to a computer, wall plate, or between patch and wall plates. These fiber optic cables, which transmit light signals, are made from smooth plastic or glass. Though thin as a strand of hair, they are capable of transmitting light signals from one location to another.
Uses of Patch Cord
Patch cords serve various purposes, one of the most notable being as a backbone for telecommunications networks. They can connect not only buildings or branch offices but also link across regions. Patch cords are essential for transmitting large volumes of data between buildings, offices, cities, and even regions.
Patch cables can connect a desktop or laptop to other end-point devices or power sources. They are also used to link servers to structured cabling systems or switch ports. Patch cables offer speeds comparable to Cat5e, Cat6, and fiber optic UTP solid cables. Typically, patch cords are priced higher than UTP solid cables.
Types of Patch Cord Connectors
Patch cords usually come with GG45, RJ45, or TERA connectors on both ends. Hybrid versions with various connector types also exist and are known as fiber jumpers, which come in both standard and conditioning modes. Some common patch cord connector types include:
- Subscriber Connector (SC): Used globally as a single-mode fiber optic connector, SC connectors feature a plug-and-play system, making them easy to install. Known for high accuracy and easy availability, SC connectors are affordable and widely accessible.
- Straight Tip (ST): This connector, similar to the BNC connector, is commonly used for both single and multimode fiber cables and is relatively easy to install.
- Biconic: One of the earliest fiber optic connectors, biconic connectors are now rarely used but still connect older devices within data centers or servers.
- Fiber Connector (FC): Designed for single-mode fiber optics and network backbones, FC connectors offer high accuracy when linked with transmitters or receivers. They are threaded to hold a stable position and maintain alignment when connected.
- LC: A widely used fiber optic connector, LC connectors link switches using SFPs. LC connectors typically come with two separate branches, RX/TX, and are compatible with both single and multimode fiber optics.