As data centers and telecom networks evolve, so does the need for compact, high-density fiber optic solutions. If you're wrestling with crowded racks or planning for 800G upgrades, you know every port counts.
Enter the MMC/APC OS2 16-Fiber Patch Cable, a next-generation patch cable designed with cutting-edge engineering and scalability in mind. Whether you're pulling structured cabling through a facility or hooking up the latest transceivers, this cable provides the low-loss, high-bandwidth connectivity that modern networks demand.
What is the MMC 16-Fiber Patch Cable?
The MMC 16-fiber patch cable features the revolutionary US Conec MMC connector, a very small form factor (VSFF) multi-fiber interface. It uses a new MT-style ferrule (the TMT™ ferrule) that dramatically increases fiber density without compromising performance.
Engineered for current and future applications (think 400G, 800G, and beyond), the MMC 16-fiber cable delivers ultra-low insertion loss and high return loss. It also simplifies traditionally tricky areas like polarity and gender management, reducing the complexity often seen with older MPO/MTP cabling.
Key Specifications
- Connector Type: MMC/APC connectors on both ends (angled physical contact for superior return loss)
- Fiber Count: 16 fibers per connector (single-row)
- Fiber Mode: OS2 Singlemode 9/125 µm (Corning® G.657.A1 bend-insensitive fiber)
- Insertion Loss: Typical ~0.25 dB, maximum ≤ 0.50 dB (elite low-loss ferrules)
- Return Loss: ≥ 60 dB (excellent reflectance performance due to APC polish)
- Jacket Rating: OFNP Plenum-rated (yellow jacket), suitable for in-building plenum pathways
- Wavelengths: Optimized for 1310 nm and 1550 nm operation (standard singlemode wavelengths)
- Operating Temperature: 0°C to 70°C (tested for stable performance in typical data center environments)
Browse and shop this MMC 16-fiber cable now!
Designed for Today’s Data-Centric World
The MMC 16-fiber patch cable isn’t just another fiber jumper – it’s purpose-built for the high-density, high-speed world of modern data centers and telecom. Here’s how it shines:
- High-Density Footprint: Fibers are tightly spaced at just 0.25 mm apart, achieving 3× the port density of traditional MPO/MTP connectors. Perfect for space-constrained racks and crowded patch panels.
- Low Insertion Loss Performance: The advanced TMT Elite™ ferrule ensures exceptionally low loss per connection, supporting longer distances and higher data rates.
- Interoperability & Simplicity: Works with standard fiber optic tools (cleaning pens, interferometers, polishers). The DirectConec™ push-pull boot makes insertion and removal simple, even in densely populated panels.
Applications
Because of its blend of density, performance, and ease of use, the MMC 16-fiber patch cable excels in a range of demanding environments. Some ideal applications include:
- 800G DR8/FR8 links (8×100G) – High-capacity data center switch links using 16 fibers (8 transmit + 8 receive) for 800 Gigabit Ethernet
- FTTx and Hardened Networks – Fiber-to-the-x deployments and outdoor/harsh environments that need robust, compact multi-fiber connectivity
- Structured Cabling & Rack Interconnects – High-density trunk cables and patching in enterprise and hyperscale data center infrastructure
- On-Board Optics & Modular Transceivers – Next-gen optical transceiver modules and co-packaged optics that require smaller multi-fiber connectors for internal wiring
- General Data Center & Telecom – Any infrastructure looking to save space while preparing for 400G/800G and beyond, from cloud providers to government data centers
Product Advantages: Features & Benefits
Every aspect of the MMC 16-fiber cable is engineered for advantage. Here are some standout features and the benefits they bring:
- High Fiber Count: 16 fibers in one connector reduces cable bulk and improves airflow.
- Simplified Polarity Management: Integrated polarity/gender design reduces errors during installation.
- Pre-Angled Ferrule: Built-in APC polish saves assembly time and ensures optimal performance.
- 0.55 mm Guide Pins: Ultra-precise alignment pins ensure consistent signal integrity.
Performance Metrics
One of the big advantages of using OS2 singlemode fiber is its ability to support long distances, which is critical in telecom and large campus environments. Here’s what you can typically expect in terms of reach for singlemode links using this cable:
|
Wavelength |
1 Gb/s Links |
10 Gb/s Links |
Extended Capabilities |
|
1310 nm |
> 25 km |
10 km (up to 25 km with special optics) |
Ideal for in-building & campus links |
|
1550 nm |
> 40 km |
40 km (longer with amplification) |
Common in long-haul telecom |
Need more fiber solutions? Be sure to explore our full fiber optics collection for cables, connectors, and more.
Why Choose MMC Over MPO?
You might be wondering, why adopt MMC connectors when MPO/MTP has been the standard for years? Here are a few clear reasons why MMC is gaining ground as a best practice for new high-density deployments:
- Size Matters: MMC connectors are about one-third the size of MPO while carrying more fibers. That’s 3× the port density on patch panels.
- Improved Ergonomics: The push-pull boot makes insertion and removal fast and simple, even in tight spaces. No more fumbling with extraction tools.
- Simplified Design: Better integrated polarity and gender management means quicker deployments and fewer troubleshooting calls.
Upgrade Your Network with MMC 16-Fiber Patch Cables
In a world where data throughput, density, and speed define success, the MMC 16-Fiber Patch Cable stands out as a solution that truly scales. It combines high fiber counts, low loss, and installer-friendly design in one compact connector footprint.
Whether you’re supporting cutting-edge AI clusters, hyperscale cloud infrastructure, or secure government networks, this cable delivers the bandwidth and reliability you need, without compromise.
Shop our MMC 16-fiber patch cables now or call 804-716-9007 to get personalized help from the Cables Plus USA team.