In most areas of the world, the move to fiber optics over traditional cable for running data is increasingly considered the standard that telecom companies are requiring.
This is an effective option for transmitting data, long distances, without the signal loss that is found in traditional types of cable. The basic reason for this is the makeup of fiber optic cable, using glass or resin fibers to transmit pulses of light that do not degrade the same way as electronic signals.
Finding the correct fiber optic cable is essential for any job. Working with a top fiber optic supplier will allow for the correct selection of cable and connectors for any type of job and for any type of application.
The Job
All fiber optics suppliers should be asking questions about the job and the application for the cable. Different types of fiber optic cable are used for indoor or outdoor applications as well as in offices or residential systems to those used in major data centers.
Jacketing
As with standard types of cable, fiber optics suppliers will offer a range of different jacket options for the cable. These will range from OFNR, which is a metal-free jacket that is ideal for indoor use. There are also LSZH or low smoke zero halogen jackets, also used for indoor applications.
Outdoor fiber optic cables can be in standard zip types of jackets. Some are also specially designed for water resistance or for surface installation where the cable needs additional protection.
Mode Required
The best fiber optics suppliers will provide both multimode as well as single mode cables. Multimode cables will be identified as OM1, OM2 or OM3. Each of these types of multimode cables is designed to effectively work with different bandwidth and speed requirements. They also vary in use based on the length of run of the cable.
Single-mode fiber optic cable is more standardized. It is often used for long distances, and it cannot be substituted for the multimodal types of fiber optic cable.
