Most small form factor connectors use what ferrule diameter?

Small form factor connectors are designed to accommodate compact space requirements while maintaining high performance in fiber optic connections. The most commonly used ferrule diameter for these connectors is 1.25 mm. This smaller diameter allows for more miniature connectors, which are essential in applications where space is limited, such as in data centers and telecommunications.

The 1.25 mm ferrule is typically associated with connectors like LC (Lucent Connector) and MU (Miniature Unit), which are prevalent in modern network applications. This size permits the use of duplex configurations to minimize real estate while enabling high-density connections.

Ferrules of larger diameters, such as 2.0 mm, 2.5 mm, and 3.0 mm, are often used in traditional connectors like SC (Subscriber Connector) and LC connectors, but they do not fit into the small form factor category designed to optimize space effectively. Therefore, understanding the specific application and connector type is crucial for proper installation and network design in fiber optic systems.