What is a CS Connector Fiber Optic Cable?

As a new generation of small high-density fiber optic connection solutions, CS connector fiber optic cables have become an essential choice in 200G, 400G, and even 800G network deployments due to their excellent performance and compact design. So, what exactly are CS optical connector fiber optic patch cords? What are its characteristics and applications? How to choose a suitable CS fiber optic connector cable? This article will provide you with a detailed analysis.

        

What is a CS Fiber Connector?

           

As the demand for network bandwidth grows, data centers widely adopt 100G backbone networks and upgrade to higher-speed 200G, 400G and even 800G backbone networks for hyperscale data centers. To adapt to the demand for higher-speed transmission, fiber optic patch cords are also constantly being upgraded. To meet this demand, the standard organization led by SENKO has developed a new CS fiber connector specification, providing high-density CS fiber optic connector.

               

The CS optical connector is a new generation of high-density, very small form factor (VSFF) connectors that are 40% smaller and more space-efficient than duplex LC connectors. It features a push-pull mechanism for easy handling and stable connections and is typically available in a duplex. It provides single-mode and multimode versions. Some optical transceivers that use CS cables include 200G QSFP-DD transceivers, 400G OSFP transceivers, and 800G QSFP-DD transceivers.

            

              

CS fiber optic cables are generally available in two options: CS to CS cables and LC to CS cables. CS to CS single-mode fiber optic patch cords are terminated with CS fiber connectors on both ends and are suitable for 200/400G QSFP-DD and OSFP transceivers with CS optical connectors. LC to CS single-mode fiber patch cables are terminated with Senko CS connectors on one end and LC connectors on the other end, allowing connection to typical LC connector-based patch panels and cabling systems.

              

CS fiber connector cables are designed to meet the needs of future networks for high bandwidth and low latency, especially in high-speed connections. Its compact structure and excellent performance make it an ideal choice for the next generation of optical fiber communication systems.

          

Characteristics of CS Optical Connectors 

           

First, the push-pull design makes the installation and removal process faster and easier while ensuring the connection's stability. Second, the CS fiber connector is about 40% smaller than the LC connector, which allows for more ports in limited rack space and increases the data center's fiber cabling density. In addition, CS optical connectors usually have lower insertion loss and higher return loss, which can ensure the efficiency and stability of signal transmission.

            

Applications of CS Cables

         

Data Centers

      

Data centers are increasingly demanding high-density cabling and high-speed data transmission. With their compact design and high reliability, CS cables are an important choice for modern data center network upgrades. They can support optical communications at 200G, 400G, and 800G rates.

         

Telecommunications

       

CS connector cables are widely used in telecommunications infrastructure in optical transport networks (OTN), metropolitan area networks (MAN), and backbone networks. Its miniaturized design helps reduce the space occupied by computer rooms while improving the management efficiency of fiber ports.

       

High-Performance Computing (HPC)

         

The HPC field requires ultra-high-speed, low-latency network connections to support complex computing tasks and data analysis. CS connectors' high-density fiber solution can meet HPC's stringent requirements for high-bandwidth and low-latency communications.

           

CS Duplex Connector vs. LC Duplex Connector vs. SN Duplex Connector, What is the Difference?

          

CS Connector vs. LC Connector

         

CS optical connectors and LC connectors are two common choices in fiber optic connector selection, but they differ significantly in performance, design and usage scenarios. CS cables are emerging as the preferred choice in modern high-speed network environments due to their unique design and performance advantages.

              

Firstly, a significant advantage of the CS optical connector is its compact size. Compared with the LC connector, the CS fiber connector is smaller. In the data center, rack space is very valuable. The CS optical connector can accommodate more ports in the same space, thereby maximizing the use of limited resources. This high-density design not only improves space utilization, but also indirectly improves the heat dissipation effect of the equipment. Since the CS optical connector is smaller in size, the airflow between the equipment is smoother, reducing the accumulation of heat and reducing the burden on the cooling system, thereby saving energy consumption.

             

Secondly, CS connectors are also superior to LC connectors in terms of signal transmission performance. CS fiber patch cord has lower insertion loss and higher return loss. These features make CS cables particularly good in high-speed networks, meeting the high bandwidth and low latency requirements of modern data centres.

  

In addition, CS fiber connectors have a push-pull design, whereas LC connectors have a more traditional design. In contrast, CS optical connectors allow for easier wiring operations and improved work efficiency.

      

CS Connector vs. SN Connector

        

SN connectors are developed by SENKO, they offer high data rates and small form factors for dense installations. They deliver next-generation data rates and allow network operators to encrypt existing legacy infrastructure while providing an upgrade path to 400G and beyond. They are VSFF (very small form factor) connectors with three times the fiber cabling density of duplex LC.

    

The SN connector is an enhanced version of the CS connector, offering twice the density and a more compact design.

        

How to Choose CS Optical Fiber Cable Connectors for 200G/400G/800G Connections?

         

When selecting CS connector fiber optic cables for 200G/400G/800G connections, several key factors need to be considered to ensure stable optical communication performance. Firstly, you should ensure that the optical module you are using is compatible with the CS fiber cables. Secondly, you need to choose the right fiber type.  Multimode or singlemode? Usually single mode fiber cables can support high speed and long distance transmission. In addition, attention needs to be paid to the impact of the end-face grinding method (UPC or APC) on insertion and return loss, as well as the plug durability and compatibility of the fiber connectors to ensure long-term stable operation. Finally, choosing a reliable supplier and high-quality CS optical connector cables can effectively reduce network maintenance costs and improve overall connectivity performance.

          

Conclusion

         

CS connector fiber optic cables perform well in 200G, 400G and 800G networks due to their compact design and high performance. Compared with LC connectors, CS connectors have advantages in space utilization, signal transmission performance and installation convenience. When choosing, you need to pay attention to compatibility, fiber type and end face polishing method. With the advancement of network technology, CS fiber connectors will play a greater role in high-bandwidth, low-latency network environments.