About MTP Trunk Cables
An MTP trunk cable is a factory-terminated fiber assembly with multi-fiber MTP connectors on both ends. One 12-fiber connector replaces six duplex LC patch cords. This means a single trunk can carry an entire rack's worth of links through a crowded pathway.
Data centers use them as the permanent backbone between patch panels, cassettes, and switch rows. Our collection includes MTP-12 Elite assemblies in OM4 multimode and OS2 single-mode, offered in Type A and Type B polarity.
Each fiber optic trunk uses a plenum (OFNP) jacket for air-handling spaces. Because MTP connectors are fully intermateable with MPO hardware, these cables also work wherever an MPO trunk cable is specified.
| Criteria |
Details |
| Connector |
MTP-12 Elite (MPO compatible) |
| Fiber Count |
12 fibers per connector |
| Fiber Types |
OM4 multimode (50/125 µm), OS2 single-mode (9/125 µm) |
| Polarity |
Type A and Type B |
| Insertion Loss |
Elite low loss, 0.35 dB max per mated pair |
| Jacket Rating |
Plenum (OFNP) |
| Jacket Color |
Aqua (OM4), yellow (OS2) |
| Supported Speeds |
40G/100G SR4 (OM4), 100G/400G DR4 (OS2) |
| Standards |
IEC 61754-7 and TIA-604-5 (MPO interface) |
Elite Low-Loss Connectors
High-speed links leave very little room in the loss budget. A standard MPO connection can add around 0.6 dB, while Elite MTP connectors stay at 0.35 dB or less. That margin lets you run more cassette hops on 100G and 400G links without bit errors or random resets.
Factory Termination and Testing
Every MTP cable is terminated and polished. We also test it before shipping it. You don't have to splice or polish anything on site. Installation becomes a pull and a click. This cuts labor time and removes the most common field mistakes.
Polarity Options That Match Your Design
Type B trunks, such as our MTP-12 OM4 Elite Type B trunk, flip the fiber positions end to end. That makes them the go-to choice for parallel optics such as 40G and 100G SR4. Type A trunks, like the MTP-12 OS2 Elite Type A trunk, keep a straight one-to-one map and pair well with cassette-based systems. Stick with one method across the whole channel, and the transmit and receive fibers line up the way they should.
Plenum-Rated Jackets
OFNP jackets meet the strictest fire rating for indoor fiber. You can run these trunks above drop ceilings or under raised floors. They are also easy to install through other air-handling spaces without extra conduit.
Data Center Backbones
Trunks connect the main distribution area to rows of server cabinets. A few compact MTP cables replace hundreds of individual patch cords and keep cable trays tidy.
Spine-Leaf Networks
Modern fabrics link every leaf switch to every spine switch. Pre-built trunks make that dense mesh fast to install and easy to trace.
40G and 100G Upgrades
QSFP transceivers with MTP ports plug straight into Type B trunks. The OS2 Elite Type B trunk handles single-mode upgrades such as 100G and 400G DR4. The upgrade from 10G to 40G or 100G can be achieved without rebuilding the cabling plant.
Pre-Terminated Structured Cabling
The trunk connects standard duplex ports at each rack when used in conjunction with MTP-to-LC cassettes. Changes and moves occur at the patch panel while the trunk remains stationary.
What is the difference between MTP and MPO?
MPO is the standard for multi-fiber connectors in general. MTP is a higher-performance MPO brand from US Conec, with tighter tolerances and lower loss. Both connectors connect to each other.
What is the best polarity to use for my trunk?
Type B is the typical choice for parallel optics such as 40G and 100G SR4. Cassette-based duplex systems are often well suited to Type A. Match the polarity of the hardware that you already have.
Are MTP trunks pinched or not pinched?
Trunks are usually unpinned (female) on both ends. They attach to the male (pinned) ports of cassettes and transceivers, ensuring guide pins remain aligned and avoiding damage.
What is the length of the longest OM4 trunk?
OM4 carries 100G SR4 up to about 100 meters and 40G SR4 up to about 150 meters. Use OS2 single-mode for longer runs or 400G DR4.
What is the best way to clean MTP connectors?
Clean with a one-click MTP/MPO cleaner prior to each connection. Dust on just one of the twelve fibers can cause high loss or a failed link.
Can trunks be ordered in custom lengths?
Contact our team for lengths beyond those listed. Measuring each run first helps avoid extra slack in trays and cabinets.
