What Is CPRI Patch Cord

CPRI patch cords are outdoor patch cords used to connect baseband units (BBU/REC) and radio frequency units (RRU/RE). They are specifically designed for transmitting the CPRI (Common Public Radio Interface) protocol and support high-speed digital radio frequency signal transmission.

CPRI patch cables are a key component of wireless communication fronthaul networks, and their performance directly affects base station transmission efficiency and network stability.

CPRI Patch Cord Definition‌

CPRI patch cords enable the transmission of IQ data, control signals, and synchronization information between the BBU and RRU via fiber optic links, replacing traditional coaxial cables and improving bandwidth and interference immunity.

Interface Type: Commonly uses dual LC connector or LC uniboot connector, supporting single-mode and multimode fiber, with speeds up to 10Gbps (CPRI) or higher (eCPRI).  

Technical Advantages

CPRI patch cord are also called FTTA patch cord, it is a kind of outdoor waterproof patch cord. Its advantages list below compared with standard patchcords:

• High Bandwidth: Single-link speed up to 9.8Gbps (CPRI v7.2), compatible with multi-carrier aggregation.
• Low Latency: Fiber optic transmission latency less than 1μs, ensuring real-time requirements.
• Reliability: Armored patch cable with spiral tube and design supports IP67 protection, suitable for harsh outdoor environments.

Main Application Scenarios

As a field tactical cable assembly, CPRI patch cord are mainly used in below applications:

• 4G/5G Base Station Deployment: Used in centralized BBU deployment scenarios, solves the problem of difficult equipment room site selection by extending RRUs remotely via fiber optic cables.
• C-RAN Architecture: Enables low-latency interconnection between the baseband pool and remote RF units in centralized radio access networks.
• High-Density Networks: Supports the fronthaul requirements of massive MIMO antenna arrays (such as Massive MIMO), meeting the ultra-high bandwidth requirements of 5G.

High Performance CPRI Patch Cord Types

Yingda offers a variety of high-performance, low-loss, durable CPRI patch cords. For example, for outdoor applications, armored fiber optic cables are recommended; for high-density deployments, multi-core connectors like MPO/MTP connectors are suggested; and if cost is a concern, outdoor waterproof patch cords with DLC and NSN boot are also an option.

We will pre-cut the patch cords to the appropriate length, pre-terminated with connectors, and package them according to customer order requirements. Customers can then quickly begin wiring upon receipt.

Recommend Type 1: Custom FTTA CPRI Patch Cord With Armored Fiber (ODC -4LC)

• Single mode LC interface, armored cable fanout with IP67 protection, support CPRI protocol, suitable for outdoor use.
• Low loss≤0.3dB/km, pressure-resistant and wear-resistant, suitable for the fronthaul requirements of 5G base stations.

Recommend Type 2: 12 Fiber MPO Armored Patch Cable With ODVA Waterproof Connector

• Designed specifically for RRU/BBU, waterproof and dustproof, supports high-density deployment.
• Dynamic PIM value ≤ -162dBc, compatible with eCPRI standard, transmission rate up to 10Gbps.
• SC LC FC ST connectors available.

Recommend Type 3: DLC-DLC Armored Patch Cord With Armor And Pulling Eye

• 7.0mm armored outer sheath, LSZH flame-retardant material, suitable for long-distance FTTA base station deployment.
• Supports long-distance transmission ≤50km, low latency < 1us, and telecom-grade certified.
• Pulling eye with push pull tab for better deployment outdoor

Recommend Type 4: Outdoor Fiber Cable With NSN Boot DLC Connector

• Factory pre-terminated, plug-and-play, suitable for dense deployment of NOKIA, SIEMENS equipment.
• Supports 6GHz band, VSWR < 1.25, static PIM ≤ -166dBc.

Usage Precautions

• Synchronization Requirements: Strict clock synchronization between BBU and RRU is required to avoid latency jitter.
• Compatibility: Must match optical module wavelength (e.g., 1310nm/1550nm) and fiber type (e.g., G.652 single-mode or OM3 multi-mode).

CPRI patch cords are a key component of wireless communication fronthaul networks, and their performance directly affects base station transmission efficiency and network stability.

For specific purchase links, please visit Yingda Outdoor Patch Cord.