A Guide to FSC 6020: Fiber Optic Cable Assemblies and Harnesses

A valuable resource for easily procuring parts for a wide range of projects and industries is the Federal Supply Class (FSC) system, which categorizes items based on their function or application. Among the many classifications, FSC 6020 is one that is essential to understand for professionals who work with and procure components that facilitate efficient data transmission, this group being specifically dedicated to fiber optic cable assemblies and harnesses. In this blog, we will explore the significance of this classification and the scope of items found within it.

Why Do These Components Have a Dedicated FSC?

FSC 6020 designates pre-assembled fiber optic cables intended for communication and data transmission, excluding unassembled variants or other items meant for illumination and image transmission. Unlike standard electrical cables, these assemblies utilize light to transmit data. The existence of this FSC underscores the unique requirements and specifications of such components, ensuring that they are procured and managed in accordance with stringent government and industry standards.

Applications and Industries

Fiber optic cable assemblies and fiber optic harnesses find extensive use in telecommunications, aerospace, military, and data centers, all of which rely on high-speed, secure data transmission. In telecommunications, for instance, these assemblies form the base of internet and telephone networks. Moreover, aerospace and military applications utilize them for communication systems and conveying sensor data.

Notable Types within FSC 6020

Simplex Fiber Optic Cables

Simplex fiber optic cable assemblies are designed for one-way data transmission, those organized under this class consisting of a single fiber optic conductor that is processed at one or both ends or terminated with specialized fittings. These assemblies are critical for applications requiring dedicated signal paths, such as high-speed data links and point-to-point communication systems. Their construction can differ based on their intended purposes, with variations including:

• Single-Mode Simplex Cables: These cables have a narrow core that is typically around 9 micrometers in diameter, allowing only one mode of light to propagate. This design minimizes signal attenuation and dispersion, making them ideal for long-distance transmissions. The core is usually made of high-quality glass and is reinforced with materials like aramid yarns for tensile strength, while common termination options include ceramic ferrule-based connectors such as SC, LC, or FC types.
• Multi-Mode Simplex Cables: Featuring a core around 50 or 62.5 micrometers in size, these cables permit multiple light modes to propagate. This characteristic supports higher bandwidth over shorter distances, suitable for applications like local area networks (LANs). Additionally, the core and cladding are made of glass with protective coatings, typically utilizing terminations like ST or MTP/MPO connectors for compatibility with high-density networking environments.

Duplex Fiber Optic Cables

Duplex cables listed under FSC 6020 contain two fiber strands to enable simultaneous two-way communication, also featuring fittings like their simplex counterparts. These assemblies are essential for applications where continuous data exchange is required, such as network backbone connections and high-speed communication links. Some commonly utilized subtypes include:

• Single-Mode Duplex Cables: Similar in core size and material to simplex cables, these cables are used for high-speed, long-distance communication. Their fibers are usually individually buffered and coated to prevent signal degradation. Furthermore, color-coded terminations like LC or SC duplex connectors are often used for easy identification and installation in data infrastructure applications.
• Multi-Mode Duplex Cables: Optimized for short-range, high-throughput applications, these assemblies have the same core sizes as multi-mode simplex cables. However, they include two fibers for bidirectional communication. In addition, they are built to ensure flexibility and ease of routing, with termination options including ST, MTP/MPO, or LC connectors.

Fiber Optic Harnesses

Fiber optic harnesses are sophisticated assemblies that integrate multiple fiber optic cables and connectors into a single system, streamlining connectivity and simplifying organization. Each harness is constructed using high-quality optical fibers, protective sheathing, and ruggedized connectors to withstand vibration, extreme temperatures, and electromagnetic interference. Some harnesses even incorporate reinforced materials, such as aramid fiber strength members or metallic shielding, for additional mechanical protection and improved signal integrity.

A Trusted Source for FSC 6020 Cable Assemblies

If you are in the market for fiber optic cable assemblies and harnesses that fall under FSC 6020, we have you covered on ASAP NSN Parts. For a convenient purchasing experience, our website features thousands of products and various catalogs that organize items by FSC, NSN, manufacturer, and other widely-used designations. As we are backed by the power of ASAP Semiconductor, we proudly offer quality-assured items from trusted sources alongside competitive procurement options tailored to your unique needs, so be sure to check out our selection today.

1. jack daniel
2. Posted on March 25, 2025
aviation parts

Related Blogs