EXFO OTDR Swap-Out Connector GP-3207 / GP-3208: Field-Replaceable in Seconds – Complete Guide
Stop Sending Your OTDR for Repairs – Replace the Connector On-Site
For fiber optic field technicians, a worn or damaged OTDR connector is one of the most common maintenance headaches. The traditional fix? Ship the unit back to a service center and wait days – sometimes weeks – for it to return. The EXFO GP-3207 and GP-3208 Swap-Out Connectors eliminate that downtime entirely. These OEM field-replaceable connectors let you swap out a damaged optical connector in seconds, right on the job site, with no tools required.
What Is the EXFO Swap-Out Connector?
The GP-3207 and GP-3208 are genuine OEM replacement connectors designed exclusively for the EXFO MaxTester 700D OTDR series. They are engineered to maintain the optical precision and measurement accuracy of your EXFO OTDR without requiring any calibration after replacement.
| Part Number | Connector Type | Polish Type |
|---|---|---|
| GP-3207 | SC | APC or UPC |
| GP-3208 | FC | APC or UPC |
⚠️ Compatibility Note: These connectors are NOT compatible with older EXFO models including MAX-715B, MAX-720B, or FTB-series OTDRs.
Compatible EXFO OTDR Models
| Model | Series |
|---|---|
| MAX-715D | EXFO MaxTester 700D |
| MAX-720D | EXFO MaxTester 700D |
| MAX-730D | EXFO MaxTester 700D |
| FTB-720D | EXFO FTB 700D |
| FTB-730D | EXFO FTB 700D |
APC vs UPC: Which Polish Type Do You Need?
This is the most frequently asked question when ordering a Swap-Out Connector. Choosing the wrong polish type will result in measurement errors and potential connector damage. Here is a clear breakdown:
APC – Angled Physical Contact
- End-face angle: 8° angled
- Return loss: >60 dB
- Color code: Green
- Best for: FTTH, PON networks, CATV, long-haul telecom infrastructure
UPC – Ultra Physical Contact
- End-face angle: 0° (flat)
- Return loss: >50 dB
- Color code: Blue
- Best for: Enterprise networks, data centers, telecom outside plant (OSP)
⚠️ Important: APC and UPC connectors are not interchangeable. Always match the connector type to your existing fiber plant to avoid signal degradation or equipment damage.
Key Benefits of the EXFO Swap-Out Connector
- Field-replaceable in seconds – No tools, no service center, no downtime
- Genuine OEM part – Maintains OTDR measurement accuracy and warranty integrity
- Four configurations available – SC/APC, SC/UPC, FC/APC, FC/UPC
- Significant cost savings – Priced at $196.88 vs. $365.00 MSRP (46% off)
- Lightweight and portable – Only 0.2 kg, easy to carry as a field spare
- Immediate availability – Ships directly from stock
Available Configurations & Pricing
| Configuration | SKU | Price |
|---|---|---|
| SC / APC | GP-3207 | $196.88 |
| FC / APC | GP-3208 | $196.88 |
| SC / UPC | GP-3209 | $196.88 |
| FC / UPC | GP-3210 | $196.88 |
Each package contains 1 × Swap-Out Connector. For bulk or B2B orders, contact sales@opticfibertool.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between GP-3207 and GP-3208?
The GP-3207 uses an SC interface, while the GP-3208 uses an FC interface. Both are available in APC and UPC polish types. Choose based on the connector port on your EXFO OTDR unit.
Which EXFO OTDRs are compatible with these connectors?
The GP-3207 and GP-3208 are compatible with the EXFO 700D series: MAX-715D, MAX-720D, MAX-730D, FTB-720D, and FTB-730D. They are not compatible with MAX-715B, MAX-720B, or older FTB-series models.
Do I need any tools to replace the connector?
No. The Swap-Out Connector is designed for tool-free field replacement. The swap takes only a few seconds and requires no calibration afterward.
Can I use an APC connector in a UPC port (or vice versa)?
No. APC and UPC connectors have different end-face geometries and are not interchangeable. Using the wrong type will cause high insertion loss, poor return loss, and may damage the connector interface.
Is this a genuine EXFO OEM part?
Yes. The GP-3207 and GP-3208 are genuine EXFO OEM components, ensuring full compatibility and measurement integrity with your EXFO OTDR.
What is included in the package?
Each order includes 1 × EXFO Swap-Out Connector in your selected configuration (SC or FC, APC or UPC).
Where to Buy
The EXFO GP-3207 / GP-3208 Swap-Out Connector is available at $196.88 (regularly $365.00) from opticfibertool.com. For enterprise pricing or volume orders, reach out to sales@opticfibertool.com or visit below web page:
https://www.opticfibertool.com/collections/accessories/products/exfo-otdr-swap-out-connector-gp-3207-gp-3208-sc-fc-apc-upc.
Final Thoughts
The EXFO GP-3207 / GP-3208 Swap-Out Connector is an essential field spare for any technician operating EXFO MaxTester 700D or FTB 700D series OTDRs. It transforms what used to be a multi-day service center repair into a seconds-long field fix, keeping your testing workflow uninterrupted. Whether you are deploying FTTH networks, testing PON infrastructure, or certifying enterprise fiber links, having the right Swap-Out Connector on hand is a simple investment that pays for itself the first time you need it.