Understanding Multimode Fiber
Multimode fiber (MMF) primarily finds its use in communication over short distances, such as within a building or on a campus. The ability of multimode fiber to propagate multiple light modes simultaneously allows it to carry more data at a given time, making it a popular choice for local area networks (LANs) and data center applications. But what distinguishes the different types of multimode fibers, and how do they compare to each other and to single-mode fibers?
Types of Multimode Fiber
There are several types of multimode fibers classified by the ISO 11801 standard, including OM1, OM2, OM3, OM4, and the recently released OM5 fiber. Each fiber type has distinct specifications and is suited to specific applications, as detailed in the table below:
MMF Cable TypeDiameterJacket ColorOptical SourceBandwidthOM162.5/125µmOrangeLED200MHz*kmOM250/125µmOrangeLED500MHz*kmOM350/125µmAquaVSCEL2000MHz*kmOM450/125µmAquaVSCEL4700MHz*kmOM550/125µmLime GreenVSCEL28000MHz*km
Comparing Single Mode and Multimode Fiber
The differences between single-mode and multimode fibers lie primarily in the core diameter, light source used, transmission distance, cost, and bandwidth.
Technical Differences
- Core Diameter: Single-mode fiber has a small core diameter (8.3 to 10 microns) that allows only one mode of light to propagate, while multimode fiber has a larger core diameter (50 to 100 microns) that allows multiple modes of light to propagate.
- Light Source: Multimode devices typically use an LED or laser as a light source, while single-mode devices use a laser or laser diode.
Practical Differences
- Distance: Light travels a longer distance inside single-mode cables than it does inside multimode ones. Thus, multimode fiber is suitable for short haul applications, allowing transmission distances of up to about 550m at 10Git/s. When the distance is beyond 550m, single-mode fiber is preferred.
- Price: Multimode fiber usually costs less than single-mode fiber.
- Bandwidth: The bandwidth of single-mode fiber is significantly higher than that of multimode, reaching as much as 100,000 GHz.
Multimode Fiber Connectors Types
Various types of connectors are used with multimode fiber, such as ST, SC, FC, LC, MU, E2000, MTRJ, SMA, DIN, and MTP/MPO, among others. The most commonly used connectors include ST, SC, FC, and LC, each with its unique advantages, disadvantages, and capabilities.
A Comprehensive Guide to Multimode Fiber: OM1, OM2, OM3, OM4, and OM5
While building an efficient network infrastructure, understanding the components used is essential. One such vital component is the optical fiber, specifically, the multimode fiber. In this article, we dive into the world of multimode fibers, comparing the five major types: OM1, OM2, OM3, OM4, and OM5, to help you make the best decision for your network.
What are Multimode Fibers?
Multimode fibers (MMF) are a type of optical fiber often used for communication over short distances, like within a building or a campus. Their core, measuring between 50 to 62.5 microns, is considerably larger than their single-mode counterparts, enabling the propagation of multiple light modes and consequently, allowing for the transmission of more data simultaneously. However, this also means that multimode fibers are best used for short-range data transmission.
Types of Multimode Fibers
There are five primary types of multimode fibers, each with unique features and uses. Here’s an overview of each type:
Fiber TypeCore SizeJacket ColorOptical SourceMax Distance @ 10Gb/sOM162.5µmOrangeLED33mOM250µmOrangeLED82mOM350µmAquaVCSEL300mOM450µmAquaVCSEL550mOM550µmLime GreenVCSEL550m (SWDM)
Note: SWDM — Shortwave Wavelength Division Multiplexing
OM1 Fiber
The OM1 fiber has been the standard for many years and is predominantly deployed for 100Mb/s and 1Gb/s links. The OM1 fiber cable comes with an orange jacket and uses a LED light source. With its larger core size of 62.5µm, it can support data transmission over a distance of up to 33m at the rate of 10Gb/s.
OM2 Fiber
OM2 fiber uses a smaller core size of 50µm and an LED light source. This enables the OM2 fiber to transmit data over longer distances compared to OM1. With an orange jacket like OM1, OM2 can support 10Gb/s speeds over distances up to 82m. It’s typically used for 1Gb/s applications.
OM3 Fiber
The OM3 fiber is an upgrade over OM2, primarily optimized for laser-based equipment, enabling higher data transmission rates and longer distances. With its aqua jacket and a 50µm core, OM3 can support 10Gb/s speeds up to 300m, and even 40Gb/s and 100Gb/s up to 100m.
OM4 Fiber
With the same 50µm core as OM3 and an aqua jacket, OM4 fiber was specifically developed for VCSEL laser transmission. It can support 10Gb/s speeds up to 550m, almost double the distance of OM3. OM4 can also accommodate 40Gb/s and 100Gb/s up to 150m.
OM5 Fiber
As the latest addition, OM5 fiber, also known as wideband multimode fiber (WBMMF), brings forth several advancements. With its lime-green jacket and 50µm core, it supports SWDM, allowing for longer distance and higher speed transmissions, enabling 40Gb/s and 100Gb/s transmissions over longer distances with less fibers compared to OM3 and OM4.
Comparing OM1, OM2, OM3, OM4, and OM5
When compared side by side, each type of fiber has unique strengths and drawbacks. As the numbers increase, so do the maximum supported transmission distances and speeds. While OM1 and OM2 are more suitable for smaller, low-speed networks, OM3, OM4, and OM5 are more appropriate for large-scale, high-speed network environments. However, the advanced features of OM3, OM4, and OM5 come with a higher price tag.
Choosing the Right Multimode Fiber
Choosing the right multimode fiber depends on several factors, including the size of your network, the expected data transmission rate, and the budget available. In general, it’s advisable to consider future-proofing your network, ensuring it can handle more demanding applications and traffic volumes in the future. For large networks with high data transmission needs, OM3, OM4, or OM5 may be the best choices. For smaller networks with limited budgets, OM1 or OM2 could be sufficient.
Conclusion
Understanding the types of multimode fibers and their unique attributes is crucial when building or upgrading a network. Whether it’s OM1, OM2, OM3, OM4, or OM5, each has its place, and knowing the differences can save time, effort, and money. To determine the best type of multimode fiber for your needs, assess your current network setup and future growth potential.
Further Information
If you require more information or assistance in choosing the right multimode fiber for your specific needs, don’t hesitate to contact us at Gezhi Photonics. Our team of experts is ready to help guide you through the process and answer any questions you may have.
About Gezhi Photonics
Gezhi Photonics Co., Ltd. is a leading global provider of optical network devices and solutions. With a focus on research and development, we strive to provide high-quality, high-performance fiber optic components and solutions to meet the evolving needs of our customers. We are committed to providing excellent customer service, timely delivery, and customized solutions to meet the unique needs of each customer.
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