Abstract: We compare the return loss of flat and angled MPO connectors with multimode fibers. We use numerical modelling and experimental data to determine the improvement in return loss due to an angled polish. We also conduct transmission testing and measure BER with links containing either flat or angled MPO connectors to quantify the system performance of 400G-SR8 transceivers.
We demonstrate that flat MPO connectors introduce no BER penalty when physical contact is maintained, but high reflection from air gaps can introduce a penalty. The use of angled MPO connectors can mitigate the risk of poor system performance.
