What are MTP/MPO Cables?

Meet the Cable: MTP/MPO Cables

MTP and MPO cables are critical components in telecommunication networks and high-speed computing environments such as data centers. These optical cables deliver the higher transmission speeds and larger capacity requirements of cloud computing in the era of big data. MTP and MPO cables have similar appearances, but there are several key differences between these cable products.

MPO (Multi-Fiber Push On) cable was developed by Nexans (formerly known as Alcatel) in the late 1980s and early 1990s to address the growing demand for high-density, multi-fiber optical connections in telecom and data center networks. This standard contains 8, 12, 16, 24, etc., fibers terminated onto a single connector, male or female, on both sides of the cable. They are available in single mode (OS3) and multimode (OM3, OM4, OM5) formats.

MTP (Multi-Fiber Termination Push-on) cable was invented by US Conec in the early 2000s. An evolution of the original MPO standard, this cable product delivers better performance and reliability. The patented design allows for more alignment options and higher-density configurations. MTP connectors offer reduced insertion loss and robust locking mechanisms compared to regular MPO connectors. MTP cables also come in different configurations, including custom lengths and fiber counts, thereby allowing flexibility in meeting specific network requirements.

Both MTP and MPO cable types play important roles in fiber optic networks. However, MTP wires are preferred for use in high-performance applications since these products have advanced functionalities.

TE Connectivity MPO/MTP cable assemblies

Design Notes 

Standardization

MPO (Multi-Fiber Push-On) connectors are standardized by the TIA (Telecommunications Industry Association) under TIA-568 and TIA-604-5 (commonly known as the FOCIS-5 standard). MPO is the earlier version, widely used in fiber-optic networks, especially in telecom and data centers.

MTP (Multi-Fiber Termination Push-on) cables are a more advanced version of the MPO. They are not governed by a separate standard but rather comply with the same broad standards as MPO cables in terms of fiber-optic systems.

Configuration

MPO/MTP cables are typically configured in 12-fiber or 24-fiber setups, with 12 fibers typically used for single-row connections and 24 fibers for higher-density, multi-row configurations. When planning configurations, it’s important to understand polarity (A, B, or C) to ensure proper fiber alignment and signal integrity.

Cable management

Proper cable management is critical in high-density environments to minimize signal loss and improve performance. Effective cable management for MPO/MTP cables ensures proper fiber routing, reduces physical stress, and prevents signal degradation. Organized trays, racks, and guides help maintain airflow and make future upgrades or troubleshooting easier.

Material specifications

Optical fibers are the main components of MTP cables, which transmit data as light signals. They can be single-mode or multi-mode; single mode is used for long-distance communication, while multi-mode works best over short distances.

Connector housings in MTP/MPO assemblies are designed for ease of use and to resist environmental stresses. These connectors use high-tech alignment systems such as guide pins to reduce insertion loss and increase signal quality.

Protection sleeves protect the cables from environmental elements such as moisture and dust. An outer cable jacket made of PVC or LSZH (Low Smoke Zero Halogen) provides additional shielding for internal components.

Strength members such as aramid yarn or fiberglass rods provide support within the structure of a cable reinforcement system during installation/operation.

Molex’s LumaLink MPO cable

Markets and Applications 

Datacom and telecom

Suppliers 

MTP/MPO connectors and cables are available in many variations from many suppliers, including Molex, Samtec, and TE Connectivity

Related products 

MPO connectors 

Like this article? Check out our other Meet the Connector and Connector Basics articles, our Datacom/Telecom Market Page, and our 2024 and 2025 Article Archives. 

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