UNDERSTANDING FIBER OPTIC CABLES: TYPES AND USES

Fiber optic cables rely on light to transmit information from one location to another at high speeds. According to Forbes, fiber optic cables can reach download speeds of 250 to 1,000 megabits per second. Integrating fiber optics into your company operations can significantly boost your operating efficiency and capabilities. So, which cables should you use for your intended applications? Review the available options below and decide which cables suit your system best.

Single Mode Fiber Optic Cables

First off, you can choose to use single-mode fiber optic cables for your transmission system. A single-mode cable features a core diameter that measures around nine micrometers. The smaller core is an intentional design choice that allows single-mode cables to transmit data over longer distances at greater speeds. Single-mode fiber optic cables are also limited to applications where only one type of data needs to be transmitted. You cannot use it for multiple data transmissions.

Telecommunication companies and internet service providers mainly use single-mode fiber optic cables. Data centers also prefer using the single-mode options. If your intended application requires long-distance transmission, you should use single-mode fiber optic cables.

Multi-Mode Fiber Optic Cables

In contrast to single-mode fiber optic cables, their multi-mode counterparts have wider cores. The wider cores allow multi-mode cables to carry multiple types of data simultaneously. These cables are also more affordable and impose less demanding maintenance requirements. Multi-mode fiber optic cables are commonly used in offices and schools.

Because of their design, multi-mode cables cannot carry data over long distances. They also transmit data slower than single-mode fiber optic cables. Keep those limitations in mind while building your system.

Sealed Fiber Optic Cables

Lastly, we have the sealed fiber optic cables. Notably, both single and multi-mode fiber optic cables can also be sealed. You can still enjoy the benefits of sealed cables while choosing from one of those options.

The seals added to these fiber optic cables enhance protection. Because of that enhanced protection, the sealed cables can be used for more applications. Building a more robust transmission system is easier if you’re taking advantage of sealed cables.

Maximize the capabilities and usefulness of your transmission system by using the appropriate fiber optic cables. If you’re looking to purchase high-quality fiber optic feedthroughs for vacuum and pressure seals, get in touch with PAVE Technology today!