Description
The PDLC to LC Duplex Waterproof Fiber Optic Patch Cord is a robust, IP67-rated patch cord designed for reliable data transmission in extreme outdoor conditions. Featuring a standard duplex LC connector and compatibility with FTTA/FTTH networks, this patch cord meets the demands of wireless base stations, industrial installations, and military communication. With a reinforced, corrosion-resistant housing, it’s engineered to perform in challenging environments while maintaining low insertion and return loss.
Engineering Suitability & Selection Boundaries
When This Product Is the Right Choice
• Typically selected for FTTA and RRH deployments where PDLC interfaces are used on radio equipment and must transition to standard LC-based optical ports.
• Commonly applied in outdoor base station environments where connectors are exposed to rain, dust, vibration, and temperature fluctuation, requiring IP67-sealed interfaces.
• Suitable for projects where duplex fiber links are sufficient for point-to-point transmission between antenna units and baseband or aggregation equipment.
• Used when field installation simplicity is important and plug-and-play connectivity reduces on-site termination and commissioning work.
• Appropriate in deployments where bend-insensitive single-mode fiber supports constrained routing near towers, cabinets, or mounting frames.
When This Product May NOT Be Suitable
• May not be appropriate for fully indoor networks where standard LC–LC patch cords already meet mechanical and environmental requirements.
• Less suitable for systems that do not use PDLC interface standards, as the rugged connector adds cost and interface complexity without functional benefit.
• Not typically selected for high-density fiber aggregation, where MPO/MTP-based solutions are more efficient.
• May be unsuitable in installations requiring frequent re-patching or port changes, due to outdoor connector handling characteristics.
Common Selection Mistakes to Avoid
• Treating a PDLC–LC outdoor assembly as a generic LC duplex patch cord, without considering its role as a sealed outdoor interconnect.
• Selecting cable structure or diameter without evaluating mechanical routing constraints such as vertical drops or shared cable trays.
• Assuming IP67 protection is required along the entire link, rather than identifying which connection points are actually exposed.
• Overlooking PDLC keying and mating compatibility with specific radio equipment, leading to installation delays or rework.
- Reliable IP67 Protection: Designed to withstand water and dust, providing reliable performance in extreme environments.
- Compatible with Various Applications: Connects seamlessly to 4G/5G wireless base stations, outdoor antennas, and temporary communication systems.
- Low Signal Loss: Offers consistent data transmission with low insertion loss (<0.3dB) and high Return Loss: SM UPC >50 dB, SM APC >60 dB; MM PC >35 dB.
- Armored and Non-Armored Options: Available in 7.0mm cable diameters for both armored and non-armored configurations, suited to different network needs.
- Easy Assembly: No special tools required, simplifying installation in the field.
| Product Name | FTTA CPRI PDLC to LC Waterproof Patch Cord |
|---|---|
| Connector | Side A: PDLC, Side B: Duplex LC or SC; Other connector options (SC, etc.) are available upon request. |
| Fiber Type | Single-mode G.657.A2; Other fiber types (G.652.D, OM3/OM4, etc.) are available upon request. |
| Fiber Count | 2 core |
| Cable Diameter | Outdoor FTTA flat cable 4.8mm / 7.0mm |
| Cable Jacket | LSZH, TPU, PE |
| Insertion Loss | <0.3dB |
| Return Loss | SM: UPC >50dB, APC >60dB; MM: PC >35dB |
| Operating Temperature | -40°C to +80°C |
| Application | Compatible with ZTE or HUAWEI equipment (PDLC interface standard / keying / mating structure) |
- FTTA and FTTH Outdoor Installations: Designed for fiber-to-the-antenna and fiber-to-the-home applications, with reliable performance in outdoor conditions.
- Wireless Base Stations: Ensures stable connections in LTE/5G base stations and RRH applications.
- Industrial and Defense Applications: Suited for rugged environments, such as oil exploration, mining, and temporary military communication setups.
FAQ
Q1. What is a PDLC to LC waterproof patch cord used for?
It connects outdoor fiber equipment such as RRUs, BBUs, and 5G antennas with reliable IP67 protection against dust and water.
Q2. What makes this patch cord suitable for outdoor use?It features a corrosion-resistant, IP67-sealed housing and TPU or PE jacket that withstands harsh weather and UV exposure.
Q3. Can it be used in both FTTA and FTTH projects?
Yes. It’s ideal for FTTA deployments and also compatible with FTTH or indoor-outdoor hybrid networks.
Q4. Is special tooling required for installation?
No tools are required — the connector supports simple plug-and-play installation in the field.
Q5. What is the optical performance of this cord?
Low insertion loss (< 0.35 dB) and high return loss (> 50 dB SM) ensure strong, stable signal transmission.
Q6. What connector options are available?
Side A: PDLC male/female; Side B: LC or SC duplex — customizable by project requirements.
Q7. Is armored cable available?
Yes. Both armored and non-armored 7.0 mm versions are available for enhanced mechanical protection.
Q8. Which brands’ systems is it compatible with?
Compatible with PDLC interface systems using standard keying and mating structures used in telecom base station deployments.
Q9: Can a PDLC–LC patch cord be connected to any LC-based radio or baseband equipment?
The LC end follows standard LC geometry, but the PDLC end must match the specific PDLC keying and mating structure used by the radio equipment. Compatibility should be confirmed at the RRH or radio port before deployment.
