N10-009 Question 103
Single answerA network administrator is upgrading a data center link between two 40GbE switches. The new transceivers use parallel optics and require a single connector that can carry multiple fiber strands in one plug. The administrator also wants to avoid using several separate duplex fiber patch cables. Which connector type should the administrator select?
- A
LC
- B
SC
- C
ST
- D
MPO
- E
RJ45
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: D
Explanation
The correct answer is MPO. In real-world data center deployments, 40GbE and some 100GbE implementations commonly use parallel optics that transmit and receive over multiple fiber strands simultaneously. MPO connectors support this by packaging multiple fibers into a single high-density connector, reducing cable bulk compared with using multiple separate duplex assemblies. By contrast, LC, SC, and ST are fiber connector types intended for one or two fibers per connectorized link, with LC being especially common for duplex optics. RJ45 is used for copper Ethernet, not fiber. This aligns with common structured cabling and transceiver practices documented by cabling manufacturers and Ethernet physical media standards used in data centers.
- A. Incorrect.
LC is incorrect. LC is a small form-factor fiber connector commonly used for duplex fiber links, especially with SFP/SFP+ optics. While very common in enterprise networks, it is designed for one fiber pair per connector assembly rather than a single multi-fiber connector for parallel optics used in many 40GbE deployments.
- B. Incorrect.
SC is incorrect. SC is a square, push-pull fiber connector often found in older enterprise fiber installations. It can support high-speed fiber links, but it does not provide the multi-fiber array format typically used for parallel-optics 40GbE connections.
- C. Incorrect.
ST is incorrect. ST is a bayonet-style fiber connector more commonly associated with older fiber installations. It is not the standard choice for modern high-density parallel-optics 40GbE switch uplinks that require multiple fibers in a single connector.
- D. Correct.
MPO is correct. MPO (Multi-fiber Push On) is designed to terminate multiple fiber strands in one connector and is widely used in high-density data center environments. It is commonly associated with parallel-optics applications such as 40GbE and 100GbE, where multiple transmit and receive fibers are bundled into a single connector.
- E. Incorrect.
RJ45 is incorrect. RJ45 is an 8P8C modular connector used for twisted-pair Ethernet cabling such as Cat 5e, Cat 6, and Cat 6A. It is not a fiber connector and cannot be used with fiber transceivers that require parallel optical connections.