A network technician is requesting a fiber patch cord with a connector that is round and twists to install. Which of the following is the proper name…

The ST (Straight Tip) connector is a fiber-optic connector that uses a bayonet-style coupling mechanism. It is characterized by its round shape and requires a twist-and-lock motion for installation, which perfectly matches the technician's description of a connector that is "round and twists to install." This design was popular in earlier networking environments for its secure and robust connection.

B. BNC: This connector is used for coaxial cables, not fiber optic patch cords, although it does use a similar bayonet (twist-on) mechanism.

C. SC: The SC (Subscriber Connector) is a square-shaped fiber optic connector that uses a push-pull mechanism for mating; it does not twist.

D. LC: The LC (Lucent Connector) is a small form-factor, square-shaped fiber optic connector that uses a retaining tab (latch) mechanism, not a twist-on design.

---

1. U.S. Department of Transportation

Federal Aviation Administration. (2018). SPECIFICATION - FIBER OPTIC CABLES (Report No. FAA-E-2989a). Section 3.2.5.1

"ST Connectors

" states

"The ST connector shall have a bayonet type coupling..." Section 3.2.5.2

"SC Connectors

" describes them as having a "push-pull coupling mechanism." Section 3.2.5.3

"LC Connectors

" describes their latching mechanism.

2. University of Florida IT. (2019). UF Standard for Telecommunications Cabling. Section 3.1.3.2

"Fiber Optic Connectors

" specifies the use of LC and SC type connectors for new installations

implicitly distinguishing them from older types like ST. The document references TIA standards that define these connector types.

3. Goff

J. (2010). Introduction to Telecommunications

5th Edition. Cengage Learning. Chapter 5

"Transmission Media

" describes various fiber-optic connectors. The text identifies the ST connector by its "bayonet-style" locking system and distinguishes it from the "push-on" SC connector and the smaller LC connector. (Specific descriptions are typically found in the section on fiber-optic cabling and connectors).