Single Mode vs Multimode Fiber Optic Cable (Single Mode vs Multimode Fiber)

Summary

This video compares single mode and multi-mode fiber optic cables, highlighting their differences and applications. Single mode fiber, with a smaller core (9 by 125 microns), uses a laser light source for long-distance, high-bandwidth transmissions up to 10 kilometers. It’s categorized into OS1 and OS2, suitable for internal and external uses, respectively. Multi-mode fiber, with larger cores (50 by 125 and 62.5 by 125 microns), uses LED light sources, supports multiple light modes, and is better for shorter distances up to 550 meters. It's divided into five categories (OM1 to OM5), each improving bandwidth and distance capabilities.

Takeaways

• 💡 Single-mode fiber transmits a single mode of light, typically using a laser as the light source.
• 🔍 Multi-mode fiber transmits multiple modes of light, typically using an LED light source.
• 🔧 Single-mode fibers have a smaller core size (9 microns) compared to multi-mode fibers (50 or 62.5 microns).
• 🚀 Single-mode fibers are better suited for long-distance transmission, up to 10 kilometers.
• 🏢 Multi-mode fibers are generally used for shorter distances, up to 550 meters, and are often deployed in internal or small campus networks.
• 🛠 Single-mode cables are categorized into two types: OS1 for internal use and OS2 for external use, with OS2 offering longer transmission distances due to lower attenuation.
• 📶 Multi-mode fibers come in five categories (OM1-OM5), with higher categories providing improved bandwidth and longer transmission distances.
• 💸 Single-mode systems tend to have higher overall costs due to the specialized equipment required, although the cables themselves may be cheaper than multi-mode cables.
• 🔬 Both types of fiber cables are constructed with an inner core and cladding, but the core size differs based on the mode type.
• 📊 Single-mode offers higher bandwidth and lower dispersion, making it ideal for high-performance applications over long distances.

Q & A

What are the main types of fiber optic cables discussed in the script?

The main types of fiber optic cables discussed are single mode and multi-mode fiber cables.

What is the primary difference between single mode and multi-mode fiber?

The primary difference is that single mode fiber transmits a single mode of light using a laser, while multi-mode fiber transmits multiple modes of light using an LED source.

Why is it important to choose the correct type of fiber optic cable for installations?

Choosing the correct type of fiber optic cable is crucial for ensuring successful operation of technology and optimizing transmission performance based on bandwidth and distance requirements.

How does the core size of single mode and multi-mode fiber differ?

Single mode fiber has a smaller core size of 9 microns (9 by 125 microns), while multi-mode fiber typically has larger core sizes such as 50 microns or 62.5 microns, depending on the category.

What is the transmission distance of single mode fiber compared to multi-mode fiber?

Single mode fiber can transmit over longer distances, typically up to 2 kilometers and even beyond 10 kilometers, while multi-mode fiber is limited to around 550 meters.

What are the categories of single mode fiber, and how do they differ?

The two categories of single mode fiber are OS1 and OS2. OS1 is typically used for internal applications with tight-buffered construction, while OS2 is used for external applications with loose tube or blown fiber construction. OS2 offers less attenuation, allowing for longer transmission distances.

How do attenuation levels affect the transmission range of OS1 and OS2 single mode fiber?

OS1 has a higher attenuation of 1 dB per kilometer, which limits its transmission distance. OS2 has a lower attenuation of 0.4 dB per kilometer, allowing it to transmit over greater distances.

What are the common core sizes for multi-mode fiber?

The common core sizes for multi-mode fiber are 50 by 125 microns, and in the legacy OM1 category, 62.5 by 125 microns.

How do the categories of multi-mode fiber (OM1 to OM5) differ in terms of performance?

Each category of multi-mode fiber improves upon the previous one in terms of bandwidth and transmission distance, with higher grades supporting greater transmission distances and bandwidths.

Why is single mode fiber typically more expensive to implement than multi-mode fiber?

Single mode fiber systems require specialized equipment for transmission, such as laser-based transmitters, which increases the overall cost. However, the fiber itself may be cheaper to purchase and costs the same to install.