# item.guide
Side-by-Side Comparison Fiber Connectors

MPO / MTP vs. SC

Comparing 2 standards across 12 specifications. 12 key differences identified.

Comparing:
MPO / MTP
SC

The MPO connector (Multi-fiber Push On, TIA-604-5 / FOCIS-5; US Conec MTP) is a high-density parallel optical connector utilizing a precision molded rectangular MT ferrule that houses 8, 12, 16, 24, 32, or 72 optical fibers in a single push-pull housing, standard for 40G, 100G, 400G, and 800G multi-lane transceivers.

View full MPO / MTP spec sheet →

The SC connector (Subscriber Connector / Standard Connector, TIA-604-3 / FOCIS-3) is a push-pull optical fiber connector developed by NTT. Utilizing a 2.5 mm ceramic ferrule and a square molded plastic body, it is a primary standard in telecommunications and FTTH GPON/EPON installations.

View full SC spec sheet →

Specification Comparison Table

12 Parameters
Parameter / Spec
Standard / FOCIS
TIA-604-5-D (FOCIS-5) / IEC 61754-7 TIA-604-3-B (FOCIS-3) / IEC 61754-4
Latching Mechanism
Push-pull sliding sleeve Push-pull snap-in rectangular housing
Polish Types Available
Flat (Multi-Mode UPC) and 8-degree Angled (Single-Mode APC) UPC (Blue), APC (Green–standard for FTTH PON)
Typical Insertion Loss
0.15–0.35 dB 0.20–0.30 dB
Ferrule Type
Rectangular MT (Mechanically Transferable) polymer —
Standard Fiber Counts
8, 12, 16, 24, 32, or 72 fibers —
Alignment Mechanism
Stainless guide pins (Male) / guide holes (Female) —
Polarity Methods (TIA-568.3)
Method A (Straight), Method B (Cross), Method C (Pair-flipped) —
Ferrule Diameter
— 2.5 mm
Ferrule Material
— Zirconia ceramic
Fiber Modes Supported
— Single-Mode (OS2) and Multi-Mode (OM1–OM4)
Standard Duplex Pitch
— 12.7 mm