3 Types of Fiber Optic Cables:

Fiber optic cables are made of glass or plastic fiber. These fibers conduct light, hence the name fiber optics. These cables have been steadily replacing traditional copper-based cables all over the world. This is because they offer significant advantages over standard metal cables when it comes to important parameters such as bandwidth, speed, reliability and maintenance. Fiber optic cables allow a larger amount of data to be transferred over greater distances at faster speeds and with minimal loss or interference as compared to copper cables. In addition, they last for longer than copper cables and require almost zero maintenance. So, although the initial costs may be higher when it comes to installing fiber optic cables, you stand to gain more in the long run.
Optical fiber was invented in the late 1950s. Continual improvements have been made since then and these days there are three main types of fiber optic cables available in the market. Let us take a closer look at all three of them.

1. Single Mode Cables

Single mode cables, as the name suggests, consist of a single strand of fiber. The advantage of this cable is that it allows a greater bandwidth of data to be transmitted over higher distances at faster speeds. Single mode cables can be used to transmit data up to a distance of 62 miles. Beyond that the signal degradation may necessitate the use of a repeater. Single mode cables are also least prone to outside disturbances. The disadvantage with single mode cables is that they are expensive and the data has to be sent at multiple frequencies.

2. Multi-Mode Cables

Multi-mode cables have a larger diameter. This allows light to follow multiple paths along the cable. Multi-mode cables offer excellent bandwidth and lightning fast speeds over shorter distances. However, since they are more prone to interference and distortion, they should not be used over large distances. Typically, multi-mode cables can be used to transfer data without significant loss for a distance of slightly more than a mile. These fiber optic cables are significantly cheaper than single mode cables.

3. Plastic Optical Fiber

In plastic optical fiber cables, the optical fiber is made from plastic instead of glass. This allows significant savings in terms of cost. However, the downside to this is that plastic optical fiber cables can only be used for very short distances, because beyond this the interference does not allow the integrity of data transmissions to be maintained. Perhaps, as this technology is further developed, we will begin to see fiber optic cables that are cheaper, yet can transfer data over larger distances.
Now that you know about the different kinds of fiber cables, you will be able to make a more informed decision when trying to decide which kind of cabling to use for your organization’s needs. Keep in mind that installing fiber optic cables requires special equipment and this is something that should preferably be done by trained professionals. They will also be able to best advise you on the kind of fiber optic cables that you may require.