Fiber optic cables are faster, cheaper, and more reliable. It’s no wonder why so many companies are making the switch. But did you know that there are different types of fiber optic cables on the market? While there is a wide variety, most can be put into one of two categories: single-mode cables and multi-mode cables. Learn more below
Single-Mode Cables
Single-mode cables has just one mode of transportation—a single strand of glass fiber with a diameter of 8.3um to 10um. They have a narrow core, which means the path that the light travels through inside the cable is narrow as well. This allows the cable to carry data over great distances before requiring enhancement.
Typically, there are two types of single-mode cables: OS1 and OS2. OS1 cables are tight buffered cables good for indoor uses, while OS2 cables are loose-tubed cables that are best for outdoor uses.
Below are some applications in which single-mode cables are best suited for:
- Longer distances
- Outdoor applications (OS2 cables only)
- Indoor applications (OS1 cables only)
Multi-Mode Cables
Multi-mode cables have a larger diameter and, thus, a larger core ranging from 50um to 100um (the most common being 62.5um). These types of cables employ two cables instead of one (hence the name multi-mode). These features allow for multiple streams of data to be sent down the cables. Additionally, multi-mode cables use LEDs and vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSELs), which are both more affordable.
Just are there were multiple types of single-mode cables, there are multiple types of multi-mode cables. They range from OM1, which is the weakest but most affordable fiber optic cable, to OM5 which is the latest and greatest multi-mode fiber.
Below are some of the applications in which single-mode cables are best suited for:
- Shorter distances
- Companies that don’t want to break the bank
- High-speed networks and data centers
No matter which type of fiber optic cable you decide on, you will need the right company to install it for you. Coastal Contracting can do just that. Contact us today to learn more.
