I. Types of Optical Cables
1. By Usage
- Trunk Optical Cable
Used for long-distance, high-capacity backbone communication, typically between cities or in core networks.
Features: Long transmission distances, higher fiber count. - Distribution Optical Cable
Used for access and distribution networks, such as connecting distribution points to end users.
Features: Lower fiber count, easy to deploy. - Indoor Optical Cable
Designed for use inside buildings or equipment.
Features: Flexible, high bending resistance, often made with non-toxic materials. - Outdoor Optical Cable
Designed for outdoor environments with strong resistance to weather, UV, and moisture.
Features: Thicker protective layers for harsh conditions.
2. By Transmission Mode
- Single-Mode Optical Cable
Transmits a single mode of light, suitable for long-distance, high-speed transmission.
Features: Minimal modal dispersion, high bandwidth. - Multi-Mode Optical Cable
Transmits multiple modes of light, suitable for short-distance transmission.
Features: Larger modal dispersion, limited bandwidth, lower cost.
3. By Sheath Material
- Standard Optical Cable
Uses PVC or PE sheath, suitable for general environments. - Waterproof Optical Cable
Includes a waterproof layer for use in humid or underwater environments. - Fire-Resistant Optical Cable
Maintains transmission performance under high temperatures. - Armored Optical Cable
Includes a metal armored layer for protection in complex mechanical environments.
4. By Structure
- Central Tube Optical Cable
Optical fibers are concentrated in the central tube, offering excellent tensile strength. - Layer-Stranded Optical Cable
Optical fibers are arranged in multiple layers with loose tubes, suitable for long-distance transmission. - Skeleton Optical Cable
Uses a plastic skeleton to support the fibers, ideal for high-density applications.
II. Key Differences Between Single-Mode and Multi-Mode Cables
| Category | Single-Mode Optical Cable | Multi-Mode Optical Cable |
|---|---|---|
| Core Diameter | Small (typically 9μm) | Large (typically 50μm or 62.5μm) |
| Light Source | Laser | LED |
| Transmission Distance | Long (tens to hundreds of kilometers) | Short (hundreds of meters to a few kilometers) |
| Transmission Speed | High (suitable for 10Gbps or above) | Moderate (suitable for 1Gbps or below) |
| Application Scenarios | Backbone networks, metropolitan areas, high-speed data centers | LANs, campus networks, short-distance connections |
| Cost | Higher | Lower |
III. How to Choose Optical Cables
- Based on Transmission Distance:
Use single-mode optical cables for long-distance; multi-mode cables for short-distance. - Based on Environment:
Choose flexible indoor cables for indoor use; waterproof or armored cables for outdoor environments. - Based on Bandwidth Requirements:
Opt for single-mode cables for high-speed transmission needs. - Based on Budget:
Multi-mode cables are cost-effective for budget-sensitive projects.
