Hubbell FHPLCE1MMZ LC Multimode OM3 10GbE Fiber Optic Pigtail

Overview

The Hubbell FHPLCE1MMZ is a 1-meter LC multimode fiber optic pigtail built for 10GbE structured cabling terminations. Pigtails are the correct tool when field-terminating a multimode trunk or distribution cable: you fusion-splice the pigtail's factory-polished fiber end to the field fiber, giving you a factory-quality LC connector without a field-termination kit. The result is lower insertion loss and more predictable performance than most field-polish connectors can deliver in a busy installation environment.

The LSZH (Low Smoke Zero Halogen) jacket on the FHPLCE1MMZ satisfies code requirements in plenum-adjacent or enclosed spaces — data centers, equipment rooms, and commercial riser pathways where smoke toxicity is a life-safety concern. In those environments LSZH is not optional; it is the specification. Verify your local code before substituting a standard PVC-jacketed pigtail.

Key Features

• OM3 50/125µm Multimode Fiber: OM3 supports 10GbE up to 300 meters on laser-optimized multimode — more than enough for in-building backbone and data center inter-rack runs. If your link budget calls for distances beyond 300m at 10GbE, you need OM4 or single-mode, not this pigtail.
• LC Connector: LC is the dominant small-form-factor connector in modern data center and enterprise structured cabling. It mates directly with SFP+ transceivers, patch panels, and LC-terminated trunk cables — no adapter required in most deployments.
• 1-Meter Pigtail Length: One meter gives enough slack for a clean splice in a splice enclosure or tray without excess fiber management burden. For longer slack loops or deep-wall-box applications, verify a longer variant is available in the fiber optic cable and assemblies category.
• LSZH Jacket: Satisfies IEC 60332 and similar low-smoke standards for enclosed-space installation — mandatory in many European-code and data-center fire-safety specifications. Do not use PVC-jacketed alternatives in spaces governed by LSZH requirements.
• 10GbE-Rated: Specifying the pigtail to the bandwidth of the link means you are not introducing a weak-link downgrade. Pair it with OM3-rated patch panels and transceivers throughout to maintain the full 10GbE channel compliance.

Integration & Compatibility

The FHPLCE1MMZ integrates into any LC-compatible structured cabling infrastructure. It is a passive component — no active configuration. Confirm the mating connector type (LC UPC vs. LC APC) on your patch panel or transceiver before ordering; LC APC (angled) is uncommon in multimode OM3 deployments but does exist. This pigtail is designed for the structured cabling ecosystem and pairs naturally with LC splice-on connectors, fiber splice trays, and OM3-compatible SFP+ modules. For a full view of the Hubbell connectivity line, browse the Hubbell catalog.

If you are designing a PoE or IP camera backbone that feeds into a fiber uplink, see the network switches section for SFP+-equipped switches that terminate the OM3 link at the IDF or MDF. For structured cabling design guidance, the fiber and cabling planning guide covers link-budget basics and OM3 reach tables.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the difference between a fiber pigtail and a fiber patch cable?

A: A pigtail has a factory-polished connector on one end only — the other end is bare fiber meant to be fusion-spliced to a field cable. A patch cable has connectors on both ends and is used for equipment-to-panel connections. Use the FHPLCE1MMZ when terminating a trunk or distribution cable at a splice tray.

Q: Is OM3 sufficient for 10GbE in a data center environment?

A: Yes — OM3 multimode supports 10GbE (10GBASE-SR) up to 300 meters per IEEE 802.3ae. For most in-building backbone and data center inter-rack distances this is well within range. Runs beyond 300m at 10GbE require OM4 (400m) or single-mode fiber.

Q: Why does the FHPLCE1MMZ use an LSZH jacket instead of PVC?

A: LSZH (Low Smoke Zero Halogen) jackets release minimal toxic fumes when exposed to fire — a requirement in enclosed, poorly-ventilated spaces such as data halls, transit infrastructure, and buildings under European or NFPA 262-equivalent codes. If your installation space mandates LSZH, you cannot substitute a standard PVC-jacketed pigtail.

Q: Can this pigtail be used for 1GbE links instead of 10GbE?

A: Yes. OM3 is backward-compatible with 1GbE (1000BASE-SX). The FHPLCE1MMZ will perform correctly on slower links — you are simply not using the full bandwidth headroom of the fiber.

Q: Does the LC connector on the FHPLCE1MMZ use UPC or APC polish?

A: Multimode OM3 pigtails of this type are virtually always UPC (Ultra Physical Contact) polish. LC APC (angled) is a single-mode convention and is uncommon in multimode deployments. Confirm with the Hubbell product datasheet or your distributor if your application has a specific polish requirement.