The Functionality and Types of Fiber Optic Cables
In this article, we’ll discuss the different types and functions of Fiber Optic Cables, including Single-mode fiber and Multimode fiber. You’ll also learn more about Violet OM3 and Single-mode fiber. This article will help you choose the right type of Fiber Optic Cable for your needs. Listed below are some of the most common types of Fiber Optic Cables. Once you know the difference between them, you can make an informed decision for your network.
Single-mode fiber
Multimode and single-mode fiber optic cables have different characteristics. While single-mode cables transmit single focused beam of light over long distances, multimode fibers carry multiple light sources inside the same glass core. The difference between the two is in the way they operate and where they are placed in a network infrastructure. Multimode fibers are typically used for longer distance communications, such as in interdepartmental communications. Single-mode cables are much cheaper than their multimode counterparts, but they are not necessarily superior.
Single-mode fiber optic cables have a core diameter of approximately nine microns and a length that is as long as the cable itself. Since they carry one light beam, they have higher bandwidth and can transmit information over long distances without loss of signal quality. Single-mode cables are generally used in telecommunications and community antenna televisions because of their high speed. They are also much more expensive than multi-mode cables, but are favored for long-distance use.
Multimode fiber
Fiber optic cables use light signals to transmit information. They are made of hair-thin strands of glass or plastic fiber. Light travels to a core that is surrounded by cladding. This cladding traps light by using the total internal reflection (TIR) principle. Another layer is the primary buffer coating, which protects the fiber from damage. A jacket covers the fiber and strength members inside. Multimode and Single Mode cables are available for different applications.
Single-mode and multimode cables should not be passively connected. If they are, the larger multimode core will be unable to match the smaller single-mode core. This results in signal killing optical loss. To avoid this issue, you can use media converters such as those produced by TechLogix. These converters require SFP modules and power. If you are not familiar with multimode fiber optic cables, check the technical specification of the components before purchasing.
Violet OM3
The color of laser-optimized OM3 and OM4 fiber optic cables has long been confusing technicians, as they are both identical in appearance. With identical jacket colors, they may be hard to distinguish when staring at the front panel. To address this problem, a new violet color was introduced for OM4 fiber optic cable. Only certain companies in America and Europe have started using this color. To make the process easier for technicians, the cables are color-coded according to their intended uses.
The color of a fiber optic cable refers to its type. Different colors denote different types of fiber, which determine the color of the jacket. Depending on the mode and performance level, jacket colors vary. Aqua-colored multimode OM3/OM4 fibers are the highest-performance fibers, while black-jacketed cables are primarily used outdoors. Despite the color difference, both OM3 and OM4 cables are capable of carrying large amounts of data and high-speed Internet.