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- sales@andcorp.com.au
RapidConnect MTP Breakout Cable assemblies provide a factory-terminated transition from one genuine US Conec MTP® connector to individual LC, SC, ST or FC connectors.
Available with 8, 12 or 24 fibres, each assembly can be custom manufactured in singlemode or multimode fibre. Furthermore, customers can specify the MTP® gender, key orientation, fibre mapping, cable length and breakout-leg length to suit their network.
RapidConnect MTP Breakout Cable assemblies provide a factory-terminated transition from one high-density US Conec MTP® connector to individual LC, SC, ST or FC connectors. As a result, they connect multifibre cabling directly to switches, servers, storage systems, patch panels and other equipment with single-fibre ports.
Every assembly is custom-built to suit the network design. Therefore, customers can specify the fibre type, fibre count, MTP® connector gender, key orientation, breakout connector type, fibre mapping, cable length and breakout-leg length.
RapidConnect MTP Breakout Cables are available with 8, 12 or 24 fibres. Furthermore, customers can select singlemode or multimode fibre and an LSZH cable jacket. Each assembly is factory terminated and tested before supply, which supports predictable optical performance and faster on-site installation.
An MTP Breakout Cable is a pre-terminated fibre optic assembly with one multifibre MTP® connector at one end and multiple individual connectors at the other. For example, a 12-fibre assembly may have one 12-fibre MTP® connector at the multifibre end and 12 individual LC connectors at the breakout end.
The MTP® connector consolidates multiple fibres into one compact connection. Meanwhile, the breakout legs separate those fibres so that technicians can connect them to individual equipment ports.
Consequently, an MTP Breakout Cable performs two related functions:
This arrangement is also known as an MTP harness cable, MTP fan-out cable or MTP-to-LC harness when LC connectors are fitted. However, “MTP Breakout Cable” provides the clearest description across the complete range of available breakout connector types.
| Specification | Available configuration |
|---|---|
| Product type | Factory-terminated MTP® breakout cable |
| Multifibre connector | Genuine US Conec MTP® connector |
| Breakout connectors | LC, SC, ST or FC |
| Fibre count | 8, 12 or 24 fibres |
| Fibre type | Singlemode or multimode |
| Cable jacket | LSZH |
| MTP® insertion loss | ≤0.35 dB |
| LC, SC, ST or FC insertion loss | ≤0.30 dB |
| Singlemode return loss | ≥60 dB |
| Multimode return loss | ≥30 dB |
| Operating temperature | 0°C to +70°C |
| Assembly length | Custom manufactured |
| Breakout-leg length | Custom manufactured |
| Fibre mapping | Specified to suit the application |
| Testing | Factory terminated and tested |
Because every network is different, the final configuration must be confirmed before manufacture. In particular, fibre count, fibre type, connector gender and fibre mapping must match the equipment and cabling system.
MTP® is a registered trademark of US Conec. Although an MTP® connector conforms to the MPO connector format, it incorporates US Conec’s engineered connector technology.
This distinction matters because a multifibre connection must align several fibre cores simultaneously. Therefore, ferrule geometry, guide-pin precision, spring force and connector condition can all affect optical performance.
US Conec MTP® connector designs include features such as a floating ferrule and precision guide-pin alignment. Together, these features help maintain physical contact between mating ferrules and support dependable multifibre connections.
RapidConnect MTP Breakout Cables are intended for customers who specifically require genuine MTP® connectivity. By contrast, the separate RapidConnect MPO Breakout Cable range addresses projects that specify standards-compatible Low Loss MPO connectors.
An MTP® connector contains multiple fibres within a single rectangular ferrule. Depending on the selected configuration, the connector can carry 8, 12 or 24 fibres.
At the breakout end, each fibre continues into an individual leg. A separate LC, SC, ST or FC connector then terminates each leg.
For example, an MTP-to-LC breakout cable may connect:
However, the cable will only function correctly when the fibre mapping matches the network architecture. Therefore, the ordering process must establish the required connector orientation and channel sequence before manufacture.
MTP breakout cables and MTP trunk cables both use multifibre connectors. Nevertheless, they perform different roles within a structured cabling system.
| Feature | MTP Breakout Cable | MTP Trunk Cable |
|---|---|---|
| Connector arrangement | MTP® to individual connectors | MTP® to MTP® |
| Primary function | Connects multifibre cabling to individual ports | Connects high-density cabling zones |
| Equipment connection | Direct connection to LC, SC, ST or FC ports | Usually connects panels, cassettes or enclosures |
| Breakout legs | Yes | No |
| Typical location | Equipment distribution area or rack | Backbone or inter-enclosure pathway |
| Main design issue | Fibre mapping to individual ports | End-to-end polarity through the link |
Choose an MTP Breakout Cable when the link must transition from an MTP® interface to individual equipment connectors. Conversely, choose an MTP Trunk Cable when both ends of the link require multifibre MTP® connectivity.
This distinction prevents unnecessary adaptors and cassettes. Moreover, it helps designers select the correct assembly for each part of the optical channel.
MTP® and MPO connectors share the same general multifibre interface format. However, the terms do not describe identical products.
MPO is the generic name for the standards-based multifibre push-on connector format. MTP®, on the other hand, identifies US Conec’s proprietary MPO connector system.
The RapidConnect MTP Breakout Cable range uses genuine US Conec MTP® connectors. Therefore, it suits projects that nominate MTP® connectivity, premium connector construction or consistency with an existing MTP® cabling platform.
The separate RapidConnect MPO Breakout Cable range will provide a cost-effective Low Loss MPO option. Consequently, customers will be able to select the connector platform that best matches their performance requirements, project specification and budget.
LC is the most frequently requested breakout connector for high-density network equipment. Its compact body makes it well suited to switches, servers, storage systems and patch panels where port density matters.
An MTP-to-LC breakout cable can provide individual LC connections for every active fibre in the MTP® interface. For instance, an eight-fibre configuration may support four transmit-and-receive pairs when the equipment uses duplex optical channels.
However, LC connector grouping must match the equipment layout. Therefore, the assembly may require simplex LC connectors, paired LC connectors, numbered legs or another defined arrangement.
Customers should specify:
Once these details are confirmed, factory manufacture establishes the required channel mapping within the finished assembly.
SC connectors provide a familiar push-pull interface and remain common in telecommunications, enterprise and optical distribution systems. Therefore, an MTP-to-SC breakout cable can provide a practical transition between high-density MTP® cabling and equipment or panels fitted with SC adaptors.
SC connectors require more panel space than LC connectors. Nevertheless, their larger body can make handling easier in lower-density environments.
SC configurations may use UPC or APC polishing where applicable. However, the connector polish must match the receiving adaptor and equipment interface. A green SC/APC connector must never mate with a blue SC/UPC interface.
For that reason, the required polish should always appear in the project specification and purchase order.
ST and FC connectors remain in service across many established telecommunications, industrial, instrumentation and test networks. Consequently, replacing the connected equipment may not be practical or necessary.
A custom MTP-to-ST or MTP-to-FC breakout cable allows a modern multifibre pathway to connect with these existing interfaces. As a result, designers can introduce MTP® connectivity into part of a network while retaining compatible equipment elsewhere.
Because these applications often involve existing infrastructure, accurate documentation becomes especially important. Connector polish, fibre type, transmit-and-receive allocation and leg identification must all be verified before manufacture.
RapidConnect MTP Breakout Cables are available in 8-, 12- and 24-fibre configurations. However, the appropriate count depends on the connector interface, equipment architecture and number of required optical channels.
An 8-fibre configuration commonly supports parallel-optics applications that use four transmit fibres and four receive fibres. Therefore, it may suit equipment based on an eight-fibre optical interface.
Although some eight-fibre systems use a 12-position ferrule, the centre positions may remain unused. Consequently, the physical connector format alone does not confirm the active fibre count.
A 12-fibre MTP Breakout Cable provides access to 12 individual fibres. As a result, it can support six duplex channels when fibres are arranged into transmit-and-receive pairs.
Twelve-fibre systems are widely used in structured cabling. Nevertheless, the final mapping must match the equipment, cassette or backbone at the MTP® end.
A 24-fibre assembly provides higher density through one multifibre connector. Therefore, it can reduce the number of separate connectors required at the high-density end of the link.
However, greater fibre density also increases the importance of clear labelling and accurate channel documentation. Every breakout leg should be readily identifiable during installation, testing and future maintenance.
Singlemode fibre supports long-distance transmission and high-bandwidth optical systems. Therefore, singlemode MTP Breakout Cables are suitable for telecommunications, data centre interconnection, enterprise backbones and other applications that use singlemode transceivers.
The RapidConnect specification provides singlemode return loss of at least 60 dB. However, the complete channel budget must also include every connector pair, adaptor, splice and cable section within the link.
Singlemode assemblies must use the correct connector polish. In particular, APC and UPC interfaces are not interchangeable. Therefore, the receiving ports and adaptors should be checked before the cable configuration is approved.
Multimode MTP Breakout Cables support short-reach optical transmission within data centres, equipment rooms and enterprise networks. Depending on the project, the assembly can be manufactured using the specified multimode fibre type.
Fibre compatibility remains essential. For example, the breakout assembly should match the multimode grade used by the backbone and connected equipment. Mixing fibre grades can complicate documentation and may affect the intended channel performance.
The RapidConnect specification provides multimode return loss of at least 30 dB. Nevertheless, designers must assess the full channel against the requirements of the relevant transceivers and application.
RapidConnect MTP Breakout Cables use Corning bend-insensitive fibre. This fibre helps limit bend-related attenuation where cables must route through crowded racks, vertical managers and high-density enclosures.
However, bend-insensitive fibre does not remove the need for correct handling. Installers must still observe the specified bend radius and avoid crushing, twisting or pulling the assembly by its connectors.
Careful routing remains particularly important near the breakout transition. Therefore, the transition point should sit in a protected location with enough space for the individual legs to reach their ports without tension.
MTP® connectors can be pinned or unpinned. These configurations are often described as male and female:
A mated connection requires one pinned connector and one unpinned connector. Therefore, two pinned connectors cannot mate correctly, while two unpinned connectors do not provide the required guide-pin alignment.
The correct selection depends on the adjoining adaptor, trunk, cassette or equipment interface. Consequently, gender must be confirmed from the complete link design rather than selected in isolation.
An MTP® adaptor aligns the connector bodies but does not change connector gender. For this reason, an adaptor cannot correct an incorrectly specified pinned or unpinned interface.
The key on an MTP® connector controls its orientation within the mating interface. Meanwhile, fibre mapping determines how the fibre positions at the MTP® end correspond with the individual breakout legs.
These are related design considerations, but they are not the same thing. A connector may physically mate while the transmit and receive paths remain incorrectly mapped.
Therefore, every MTP Breakout Cable order should define:
Network documentation may refer to polarity methods or fibre mapping arrangements. However, a breakout cable must ultimately match the actual equipment ports at the single-fibre end.
Accordingly, Anderson Corporation can manufacture the assembly to the nominated configuration once the required mapping has been confirmed.
The breakout legs must reach their destination ports without excessive slack or tension. Therefore, their length should reflect the physical equipment layout.
Short legs may create tension at the connector or breakout transition. Conversely, excessively long legs can increase congestion and complicate cable management.
When selecting the leg length, consider:
Where equipment ports cover more than one row or module, staggered leg lengths may improve routing. However, the required pattern must be documented before manufacture.
RapidConnect MTP Breakout Cables are made to the required overall length. As a result, the assembly can suit the actual pathway instead of relying on excessive coiled slack.
The measured route should follow the intended cable-management path rather than a direct line between connection points. Moreover, the calculation should include vertical transitions, rack entry points and an appropriate service allowance.
An assembly that is too short can place stress on the connector and cable. On the other hand, an unnecessarily long assembly occupies valuable rack space and can obstruct airflow or maintenance access.
Therefore, careful route measurement supports a cleaner and more manageable installation.
RapidConnect MTP Breakout Cables use a low-smoke zero-halogen cable jacket. LSZH materials limit the emission of dense smoke and halogenated gases during combustion compared with some traditional jacket materials.
Consequently, LSZH construction is commonly specified for communications rooms, data centres and other enclosed environments. However, the cable must still suit the relevant building requirements and installation pathway.
Project designers remain responsible for confirming the required fire-performance classification for the installation.
Multifibre connector termination requires controlled processes and specialised equipment. Therefore, RapidConnect MTP Breakout Cables are terminated and tested before delivery.
Factory manufacture provides several practical benefits:
Nevertheless, factory testing does not replace installation verification. The completed link should still be inspected, cleaned and tested after installation because contamination, handling or an incorrect connection can affect field performance.
The RapidConnect MTP Breakout Cable specification provides an MTP® connector insertion loss of no more than 0.35 dB. In addition, the individual LC, SC, ST or FC connectors have an insertion loss of no more than 0.30 dB.
Return-loss specifications are:
These figures describe the specified assembly components. However, the total link loss will also depend on the number of mated connections, fibre attenuation, splices and other passive components in the optical path.
Therefore, the network designer should calculate an end-to-end optical loss budget. Furthermore, an operating margin should remain after all planned losses have been included.
Data centres require high port density, controlled installation and accurate channel management. Therefore, MTP Breakout Cables can provide an efficient transition between multifibre infrastructure and individual equipment interfaces.
Common applications include:
Because the assemblies arrive pre-terminated, installation teams can reduce on-site termination work. Moreover, numbered breakout legs make individual channels easier to identify when the labelling scheme matches the network records.
Telecommunications networks often combine high fibre counts with several connector formats. As a result, an MTP Breakout Cable can provide a controlled transition between a multifibre distribution pathway and individual optical interfaces.
Custom connector selection allows the breakout end to match LC, SC, ST or FC equipment. Furthermore, singlemode construction supports the longer transmission distances commonly required within telecommunications infrastructure.
However, the cable should remain within its specified operating environment. External pathways, harsh industrial areas or uncontrolled spaces may require another cable construction or additional protection.
Enterprise networks can use MTP Breakout Cables between high-density backbone infrastructure and individual equipment ports. Consequently, they suit communications rooms, campus distribution areas and centralised equipment installations.
Pre-terminated assemblies can also simplify planned upgrades. For example, an organisation may install a multifibre backbone and then use an MTP-to-LC breakout cable to connect the required channels to active equipment.
Because the breakout cable is removable, future changes may be completed without reterminating the permanent backbone. Therefore, the architecture can provide both flexibility and easier maintenance.
An MTP Breakout Cable may connect the multifibre side of a cabling system directly to equipment with individual optical ports. This approach can remove the need for a separate breakout cassette in suitable designs.
Fewer components may reduce connection points and simplify the optical path. However, direct connection also places greater importance on correct leg length, port sequence and fibre mapping.
Before selecting this architecture, confirm:
If these details remain uncertain, a cassette-based design may offer greater flexibility.
Although the assembly is pre-terminated, careful installation remains essential.
First, inspect the route and confirm that the cable length and breakout-leg arrangement match the equipment layout. Next, protect all connector ends until they are ready for inspection and connection.
During installation:
After installation, verify the channel mapping and complete the required optical tests. Finally, update the network records with the installed cable identification and port allocation.
Contamination can affect every fibre within an MTP® connector. Therefore, a small amount of dust or oil can disrupt more than one optical channel.
A dust cap protects the connector during transport and storage, but it does not guarantee a clean end face. Consequently, technicians should inspect the connector after removing the cap and before every connection.
The correct process is:
The same principle applies to the LC, SC, ST or FC connectors at the breakout end.
For routine connector maintenance, use a cleaner designed for the multifibre interface, such as the RapidConnect MTP/MPO One-Click Cleaner.
The breakout transition is where the main cable separates into individual legs. Therefore, this section should remain supported and protected within the rack or enclosure.
Do not position the transition where doors, trays or removable equipment can crush it. Similarly, do not leave the individual legs hanging from the connected ports.
Instead, use suitable horizontal or vertical cable management to support the assembly. Velcro-style cable ties can hold the cable without applying excessive pressure. However, technicians should avoid overtightening any restraint.
Good cable management also preserves access to each connector. As a result, future inspection, cleaning and equipment replacement become easier.
Each assembly is manufactured to the customer’s nominated configuration. Therefore, complete ordering information helps prevent delays and incompatible connections.
Please specify:
Where possible, provide a link diagram or port schedule. This information allows the fibre mapping and connector arrangement to be checked before manufacture.
The correct cable cannot be selected from fibre count alone. Instead, the assembly must match the complete optical system.
Begin with the equipment interfaces at both ends. Then confirm the installed or proposed multifibre cabling arrangement. Finally, establish the required transmit-and-receive mapping.
For equipment with individual LC ports, determine whether the ports operate as simplex channels or paired transmit-and-receive connections. Likewise, confirm whether the MTP® interface uses eight, 12 or 24 active fibres.
If the cable will connect through an adaptor, enclosure or existing trunk, include those components in the polarity review. Otherwise, an individually correct component may still produce an incorrect end-to-end channel.
RapidConnect MTP Breakout Cables provide a customised connection between genuine MTP® multifibre interfaces and individual equipment ports.
Key benefits include:
Most importantly, the assembly is manufactured around the actual network design. Therefore, customers receive a cable configured for the intended equipment, pathway and channel mapping.
An MTP Breakout Cable is a factory-terminated fibre optic assembly with one multifibre MTP® connector at one end and several individual connectors at the other. Therefore, it provides a direct transition from high-density multifibre cabling to individual equipment ports.
RapidConnect MTP Breakout Cables can be manufactured with LC, SC, ST or FC connectors. However, the selected connector must match the adaptors, transceivers or equipment ports within the network.
RapidConnect MTP Breakout Cables are available with 8, 12 or 24 fibres. While eight fibres often support parallel-optics applications, 12- and 24-fibre configurations can provide a greater number of individual breakout connections.
No. Although MTP® connectors use the MPO interface format, MTP® is a proprietary connector system manufactured by US Conec. This Authority Hub specifically covers breakout cables made with genuine MTP® connectors, whereas the separate MPO Breakout Cable range uses Low Loss generic MPO connectors.
An MTP Breakout Cable has an MTP® connector at one end and individual LC, SC, ST or FC connectors at the other. Conversely, an MTP Trunk Cable has an MTP® connector at both ends and usually connects high-density panels, cassettes or enclosures.
Yes. Each assembly can be manufactured to the required fibre count, fibre type, connector arrangement, fibre mapping, overall length and breakout-leg length. Therefore, customers should provide complete network and equipment details when requesting a quotation.
Yes. MTP-to-LC is a common configuration for connecting multifibre infrastructure to switches, servers, storage equipment and patch panels with LC ports. However, the required LC presentation, leg sequence and transmit-and-receive mapping must be confirmed before manufacture.
Yes. RapidConnect MTP Breakout Cables are available with singlemode or multimode fibre. Nevertheless, the selected fibre must match the backbone, connected equipment and optical transceivers.
The specified insertion loss is no more than 0.35 dB for the MTP® connector and no more than 0.30 dB for the individual LC, SC, ST or FC connectors. However, designers must calculate the total loss across the complete optical channel rather than assessing the breakout cable alone.
A male MTP® connector contains alignment guide pins, whereas a female MTP® connector does not. A connection normally requires one pinned connector and one unpinned connector. Therefore, the adjoining trunk, cassette, adaptor or equipment interface must be checked before selecting the MTP® gender.
No. An MTP® adaptor aligns and holds two compatible connectors, but it does not add or remove guide pins. Consequently, the connectors on either side must already have the correct pinned and unpinned relationship.
Fibre mapping determines which MTP® fibre position connects to each individual breakout leg. If the mapping is incorrect, transmit and receive channels may not align even though the connectors physically mate. Therefore, the required port sequence must be confirmed before manufacture.
Yes. Anderson Corporation can supply custom breakout-leg lengths to suit the equipment layout and cable-management route. Furthermore, staggered leg lengths may be specified where the connectors must reach different port rows or equipment modules.
Yes. RapidConnect MTP Breakout Cables use an LSZH cable jacket. As a result, they suit many controlled indoor communications environments where low-smoke zero-halogen construction is specified.
Yes. Each assembly is factory terminated and tested before supply. Nevertheless, installers should inspect, clean and test the connections after installation because contamination or handling can affect field performance.
A new connector should always be inspected before connection because a dust cap does not guarantee a clean end face. If contamination is present, clean the connector with a suitable tool, such as the RapidConnect MTP/MPO One-Click Cleaner, and then inspect it again before mating.
Please specify the fibre count, fibre type, MTP® gender, key orientation, breakout connector, connector polish, fibre mapping, overall cable length and breakout-leg length. In addition, a port schedule or link diagram can help confirm the correct configuration.
MTP Breakout Cables are commonly used in data centres, telecommunications facilities and enterprise networks. In particular, they suit installations that must connect high-density MTP® infrastructure directly to individual optical equipment ports.
The MTP Breakout Cable Knowledge Centre will provide focused guidance on genuine MTP® breakout assemblies. As the Knowledge Centre expands, each section will help customers specify, install, test and maintain these cables without duplicating the broader subjects covered by the MTP Trunk Cable or MPO Breakout Cable Authority Hubs.
First, this section will explain how an MTP Breakout Cable transitions multiple fibres into individual equipment connections. It will also examine common terms such as harness cable, fan-out cable and MTP-to-LC cable.
Articles coming soon.
Next, this section will explain pinned and unpinned MTP® connectors, key orientation and mating requirements. Consequently, designers will be able to identify the correct connector configuration before ordering.
Articles coming soon.
This section will focus on the relationship between MTP® fibre positions and individual breakout legs. In particular, it will explain transmit-and-receive mapping, port sequencing and direct equipment connections.
Articles coming soon.
Because LC is the most common breakout interface, this section will examine simplex presentation, paired LC channels, leg numbering and equipment-port layouts.
Articles coming soon.
This section will compare 8-, 12- and 24-fibre breakout configurations. Furthermore, it will explain how the active fibre count relates to duplex and parallel-optics applications.
Articles coming soon.
This section will cover route planning, bend radius, breakout-transition protection and rack cable management. It will also explain how to prevent tension at individual equipment ports.
Articles coming soon.
Finally, this section will address multifibre end-face inspection, connector cleaning, channel verification and post-installation testing.
Articles coming soon.
Download the RapidConnect MTP Breakout Cable datasheet for the principal product specifications and available configurations.
Because each assembly is custom-built, the datasheet should be read together with the confirmed project configuration.
For fibre optic product information, practical guidance and demonstrations, visit the Anderson Fibre Products YouTube channel.
A correctly configured MTP Breakout Cable provides a compact and dependable transition from multifibre infrastructure to individual equipment ports. However, connector gender, key orientation, fibre mapping and leg configuration must all match the optical system.
Contact Anderson Corporation with your fibre count, fibre type, connector requirements, cable length and port-mapping information. We can then configure a RapidConnect MTP Breakout Cable for your data centre, telecommunications or enterprise network.
Choose RapidConnect when your project requires genuine US Conec MTP® connectivity, factory-tested optical performance and a breakout assembly built around the actual installation.
Check out the official Anderson Corporation YouTube Channel for more Fibre Optic Information!
