Category: Fiber Optic Cables

What You Should Think About Before Selecting Fiber Cables

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Sorting through cables and connectivity options could be a frustrating exercise. It’s hard enough working through the categories and levels of copper networking cables, where most cables end with similar connector. What happens when you start looking at fiber cables? This is where things can definitely get confusing! This article tells you how to select the right kind of fiber cables.
Let’s move on off by saying that fiber optic cables can be used in a huge variety of applications, from small office LANs, to data centers, to inter-continental communication links. The information lines that connect between North America and Europe, for example, are constructed with fiber optic cable strung underneath the ocean. Our discussion in this article will focus mainly on the kinds of cables present in those small-scale networks closer to home, and in particular to pre-terminated cables which may be designed for installation, called “patch cords”, “pre-terms”, or any other similar nicknames like fiber patch cables. Prior to you buying, you should make clear the following parameters.
Multimode and Single mode
One of the first things to determine when selecting fiber optic cables is the “mode” of fiber that you’ll require. The mode of a fiber cable describes how light beams travel within the fiber cables themselves. It’s important because the two modes aren’t compatible with each other, which means that you can’t substitute one for that other.
There’s really not much variety with single mode patch cords, but there’s for multimode. You will find varieties described as OM1, OM2, OM3 and OM4 (OM means the “optical mode”). Basically, these varieties have different capabilities around speed, bandwidth, and distance, and the right type to make use of will be based mostly upon the hardware that is being used with them, and any other fiber the patch cords will be connecting to.
Fiber Optic Cable Jackets
Pre-term fiber can be used in a variety of installation environments, and as a result, may need different jacket materials. The standard jacket type is called OFNR, which means “Optical Fiber Non-conductive Riser”. This can be a long-winded way of saying, there’s no metal in it, so it won’t conduct stray electrical current, and it can be installed in a riser application (going in one floor up to the next, for instance). Patch cords are also available with OFNP, or plenum jackets, which are ideal for use in plenum environments for example drop-ceilings or raised floors. Many data centers and server rooms have requirements for plenum-rated cables, and also the local fire codes will invariably have the final say in what jacket type is required. The ultimate choice for jacket type is LSZH, which means “Low Smoke Zero Halogen”, that is a jacket produced from special compounds that provide off very little smoke with no toxic halogenic compounds when burned. Again, seek advice from the neighborhood fire code authority to be certain of the requirements from the installation before making the jacket selection.
Simplex and Duplex
Simplex and duplex have only the difference between one fiber or two, and between one connector at each end of the cable, or two connectors each and every end. Duplex patch cords are the most common type, because the method in which most fiber electronics work is they need two fibers to speak. One is used to transmit data signals, and the other receives them. However, sometimes, just one fiber is required, so simplex patch cords may be essential for certain applications. If you aren’t sure, you can always be on the safe side by ordering duplex patch cords, and just one of these two fibers.
Fiber Optic Cable Connectors
Remember what we should said at first about copper category cables? No matter what level of twisted pair you were coping with (Cat 5, 5e, etc), you always knew you would be dealing with an 8-position modular RJ-45 plug around the end from the cable. Well, with fiber patch cords, there is a few possibilities when it comes to connectors. The common connector types are FC, LC, SC, ST and MTRJ etc..
These are the most typical selections that you will find when choosing amongst patch cords. If you’re able to determine which of these characteristics you need, it is highly likely you will make the right choice when custom fiber optic cables with suitable parameters.

SELECTING A FIBER OPTIC PATCH CORD

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I receive many questions when it comes to the topic of Networks and Datacom, but one subject I believe many can benefit from is how to determine the differences between one fiber optic patch cord and another. Now, fiber optic patch cords come in a variety of cable and connector types. In order to obtain the proper patch cord you need to determine several attributes:
Cable Type — Fiber Optic cable comes in two general types, Single-Mode and Multi-Mode fiber.
Single-Mode fiber cable generally has a 9 Micron diameter glass fiber. There are two sub groups (referred to as OS1 and OS2) but most cable is “dual rated” to cover both classifications.
Multi-Mode fiber cable can have several different diameters and classifications of fiber strands.
The two diameters currently in use are 62.5 Micron and 50 Micron.
Within the 50 Micron diameter Multi-Mode cable, there are three different grades (referred to as OM2, OM3, and OM4). The cable types used in the patch cord should match that of the network cabling to which they are attached via the patch panel.
The fiber cable may be available in different “jacket diameters” (such as 2mm or 3mm). Thinner diameters (1.6 or 2mm) may be preferable in dense installation within a single rack since they take up less space and are more flexible.
Cables that route from rack to rack (especially via cable tray) may be more suitable if they have the thicker jacket that results in larger diameters thus making them more rigid.
Flammability of the jacket material could become an issue if the area they are in has special requirements for flame spread or products of combustion in case of a fire. In these cases, patch cords may have to be classified as “Plenum Rated” (OFNP) rather than “Riser Rated” (OFNR).
Simplex or Duplex — Unlike copper patch cords which send information in both directions (having multiple pairs of conductors with which to do so), most fiber patch cord cables have a single strand of fiber allowing for signal flow in one direction only.
Connecting equipment so that it can send and receive information requires two strands of fiber (one to transmit and one to receive information). This can be accommodated by using two “Simplex” (single strand of fiber) cables for each equipment interconnection or a “Duplex” cable, with conductors and/or connectors bonded together in pairs.
Length — Overall length of the patch cord may be specified in feet or meters, depending on your preference.
Connector Type — See the connector type descriptions below. Some patch cords may have different connector types on each end to accommodate interconnection of devices with dissimilar connectors. In some cases, there may be a connector on only one end, and bare or unterminated fiber on the other. These are usually referred to as “Pigtails” rather than “Patch Cords”.

Know All about the DWDM and its Utilization and Significance

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WDM is the abbreviation for Wavelength Division Multiplexing, it is a popular technology used in currently fiber optic communication systems. By WDM, we can split a number of optical lights in an optic fiber into a number of discrete wavelengths. Each wavelength can be considered to an independent channel running at a special data rate of 5Gbit/s, 10Gbit/s, 40Gbit/s or even 100Gbit/s. If the light in the fiber is split into 16 channels, and each channel running at 40Gbit/s, the total data transmission rate will be 640Gbit/s. In effect, this means maximized use of a single fiber optic to transmit and receive a large number of signals, minimizing costs for telecom companies. WDM technology is also the working principle of optical amplifiers, multiplexers, and demultiplexers. Next, I will give a separate introduction about WDM/CWDM/DWDM technologies.
DWDM and Conventional WDM
DWDM stands for Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing. It means the divided wavelength channels are very narrow and close to each other. It is widely used for the 1550nm band so as to leverage the capabilities of EDFA (Erbium Doped Fiber Amplifiers), which are effective for wavelengths between approximately 1525-1565 nm (C band), or 1570-1610 nm (L band). Conventional WDM Conventional WDM uses the 3rd transmission window with a wavelength of 1550nm, accommodating up to 8 channels. DWDM basically is the same however along with the higher density channel. An ultra-dense WDM is capable enough to work at the spacing of just 12.5 GHz, allowing some more channels.
CWDM
CWDM refer to Course wavelength division multiplexing, in CWDM technology, it shared the fact that the choice of channel spacing and frequency stability which is the EDFA could not use. There is an increase in channel space; it cannot be used in EDFA. One basic meaning for the CWDM is two (or more) signals are multiplexed onto the single fiber, where one signal was into the 1550 nm band, and then another one into the 1310 nm band. Currently, there is an increase in the channel space. This means the need for less sophisticated and less costly transceivers devices. Working into the similar window of 1550 nm as well as making the utilization of OH-free silica fibers, the maximum efficiencies are gained into the channels 31, 49, 51, 53, 55, 57, 59 and 61 utilizing the wavelengths from 1270 nm through 1610 nm along with the channel spacing of 20 nm. CWDM devices are commonly used in fewer precision optics and lower cost, un-cooled lasers with lower maintenance requirements? Compared with DWDM and Conventional WDM, CWDM is much more cost-effective and less power consumption of laser devices.
Currently, kinds of related CWDM MUX/DEMUX or DWDM MUX/DEMUX or optical amplifiers are available in the market. Networking solutions provider is the right ones to ask for guidance for use of CWDM, DWDM or WDM technology. Choosing the right one means the correct, integrated devices for error-free high-speed data transmission over fiber optic networks. Cost-effective CWDM solutions with optimized performance and built-in expansion capabilities are available from a host of online network solution companies. Choosing the most experienced one to get the reliable CWDM solution is critical.

Basic knowledge of Fiber Optic Cable Jacket & Fire Rating

Fiber optic cable is constructed from the inside core, cladding, coating, strengthen member to the outside cable jacket. As the bare fiber is easily broken, fiber optic cable jacket is needed to provide protection for the shielding and conductors within the cable. The cable jacket is the first line of moisture, mechanical, flame and chemical defense for a fiber cable.

Fiber Optic

Fiber optic cable is constructed from the inside core, cladding, coating, strengthen member to the outside cable jacket. As the bare fiber is easily broken, fiber optic cable jacket is needed to provide protection for the shielding and conductors within the cable. The cable jacket is the first line of moisture, mechanical, flame and chemical defense for a fiber cable.

Fiber Optic Cable Jacket Material

Fiber cable jacket is made of various types of materials. It’s important to consider the jacket type when selecting the compatibility with the application’s connectors and environment. The table below contains some of the most common fiber cable jacket material types used both indoor and outdoor cables.

Fiber Optic Cable Jacket Color Code

According to EIA/TIA-598, the fiber optic cable color code defines the jacket color codes for different fiber types (SMF or MMF). For single mode fiber, the jacket color is typically yellow. While for multimode cable, the jacket color can be orange (OM1 & OM2 cable), aqua (OM3 cable) and purple (OM4 cable). For outside plant cables, the standard jacket color is black. For more information about fiber optic cable color code, please refer to How to Identify the Fiber Optic Cable Color Code?

Fiber Optic Cable Fire Rating

Typically, there are eight levels of fire resistance for both non-conductive and conductive cables specified by NEC (National Electrical Code). All indoor fiber optic cables must be marked and installed properly for its intended use: plenums, risers and general purpose areas.

Note:

(1) A Plenum area is a building space used for air flow or air distribution system (drop ceiling and raised floors).

(2) A Riser area is a floor opening, shaft or duct that runs vertically through one or more floors.

(3) A general purpose area is all other area that is not plenum or riser and on the same floor.

OFNP vs. OFNR

As mentioned above, OFNP and OFNR are two types of fiber optic cables that are used in buildings. OFNP cables have fire-resistance and low smoke production characteristics. This is the highest fire rating fiber cable and no other cable types can be used as substitutes. So these cables are mostly installed in plenum areas. Whereas, the fiber-resistance and low smoke of OFNR cables are not good as OFNP. OFNP plenum cables can be used as substitutes for OFNR cables. Through OFNR vs. OFNP, it is worth noticing that OFNR fiber optic cable cannot be used in plenum areas to replace OFNP cables, however, the latter can be used in the riser areas. Both OFNP and OFNR can be used in general purpose areas.

Fiber-Mart Plenum/Riser Fiber Optic Cable Solutions

In the nutshell, plenum rated and riser rated cables are generally deployed within the buildings. Choosing the right type of rated cables can effectively reduce loss when the cables are burning. If your cabling application requires materials that are flame-retardant or compliant with strict safety standards, please always opt for plenum-rated cables. Fiber-mart provides a full line of plenum and riser fiber optic cables, including MTP plenum trunk cables, MTP-LC plenum harness cables, tight-buffered distribution plenum cables, armored tight-buffered plenum cables, and tight-buffered distribution / breakout riser cables. If you have any questions or requirement of Optical Fiber，welcome to contact us: product@fiber-mart.com.

Very Effective Method of Fiber Optic Cables Selection

After the distribution network plan is developed, the next step we have to do is the selection of the right fiber optic cable. Remember the bulk of the Fiber Optic Cable installed today is for either telephone or office applications. Industrial sites bring some challenges that are not address by many of the common fiber optic cable installation design. Just due to the local telephone company would rather a particular type of fiber optic cable does not mean it is the right one for a facility.

After the distribution network plan is developed, the next step we have to do is the selection of the right fiber optic cable. Remember the bulk of the Fiber Optic Cable installed today is for either telephone or office applications. Industrial sites bring some challenges that are not address by many of the common fiber optic cable installation design. Just due to the local telephone company would rather a particular type of fiber optic cable does not mean it is the right one for a facility.

The common rule of thumb for selection optical cable in industrial setting is to use 62.5/125 μm or 50/125 μm Multi-mode fiber cable. The cable should be rated for both indoor and outdoor use and must have an FT-4 flame rating if it is used for indoors. Aluminum interlock armor is preferred over steel tape for all but long, buried runs. Fiber counts should be a minimum of 12, with 24 fibers as the standard for main backbones. More specific selection details depend on the area where the cable will be installed.

Indoor Office Installation

Fiber selection for office applications is relatively simple. The fiber must be flame-rated for either FT-4 general use or FT-6 for plenum. Typically, tight-buffered cable with Kevlar strength members and a light jacket is used. There is little reason to use loose tube as it is more difficult to install and usually does not meet the flame rating standards. As well, fiber optic cables in these environments do not require armor as the chance of crush or pull damage is relatively low. Because jacketed fiber optic cable is more rugged than most coaxial and twisted-pair cables, plan to armor fiber only in the places where coaxial cables would be Armored Fiber Cable.

Indoor Industrial Installations

If fiber optic cable is being installed in plant-floor conditions. It is possible to be installed in existing cable trays and be subjects to more stresses than office cable systems. Thus, some form of armor is recommended, usually aluminum interlocked (TEC style) armor. This armor must be electrically bonded to ground at all distribution cabinets.

Inter-building Installation

Industrial sites often need a combination of indoor and outdoor fiber routing. Telecommunication industry guidelines recommended switching between indoor and outdoor fiber cable types at each transition, a solution than is not practical for most industrial sites. On a typical site, this would require numerous patch boxes or splices and is not worked for both cost and attenuation(signal loss) reasons. Instead, FT-4 flame-rated, tight-buffered cable should be used so that the cable can transmit both indoor and outdoor environment.

Long-Run Outdoor Installations

Outdoor fiber cable generally falls into three categories, direct burial, underground conduit, and aerial. These cables are manufactured specifically for outdoor applications and are recommended for any long outdoor cable runs, especially in region subject to cold weather. Most are loose tube designs with high tensile strength, to withstand environmental conditions, and gel filling, to prevent water migration. The jacket materials are specially selected to be abrasion and ultraviolet resistant. If a facility is planning to install long outdoor runs it will need to work closely with the manufacturer ti determine the right cable for its application.

Indoor and Outdoor fiber optic cable delivers outstanding audio, video, telephony and data signal performance for educational, corporate and government campus applications. With a low bending radius and lightweight feature, this cable is suitable for both indoor and outdoor installations. Typical indoor and outdoor cables are loose tube and tight buffer designs, and we also supply ribbon cables, drop cables, distribution cables and breakout cables. These are available in a variety of configurations and jacket types to cover riser and plenum requirements for indoor cables and the ability to be run in duct, direct buried, or aerial/lashed in the outside plant. In addition, Fiber-Mart can supply Indoor and Outdoor fiber optic cable. If you have any questions or requirement of Indoor and Outdoor fiber optic cable，welcome to contact us: product@fiber-mart.com.

Difference Between Tight-Buffered Breakout and Distribution Cables

There are two basic styles of fiber optic cable construction: loose tube and tight buffered. Tight buffered cables provide improved reliability and quick termination for today’s cable installation systems.

There are two basic styles of fiber optic cable construction: loose tube and tight buffered. Tight buffered cables provide improved reliability and quick termination for today’s cable installation systems. Tight-buffered breakout cables and distribution cables are two main types of the tight-buffered cables.loose tube cables hold more than one optical fiber, each individually sleeved core is bundled loosely within an all-encompassing outer jacket. However, in tight buffered cables, there are not so many cables as loose tube cables.

 

Cable Structures

Breakout Cable Structure

Breakout cable is also known as fan-out cable. As the following picture shows, breakout cable consists two or more simplex cables bundled around a central strength member. Each fiber has its own jacket and all of the fibers are packaged together inside the same outer jacket. Thus, breakout cable can also be broken out into individual simplex cables for separate use when running through walls of a building. Breakout cable is usually designed with tight buffer and the fiber counts are varied from 2 to 24 fibers.

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Distribution Cable Structure

 

Unlike the breakout cable, distribution cable is smaller in size and lighter in weight. Fiber counts of distribution cable can be more intensive than the breakout cable for up to 144 fibers. Many fibers may not be used immediately but can be left for future expansion. Although the distribution cable has a more compact design, the tight-buffered fibers inside the cable are only bundled in a single outer jacket for protection, as shown in the picture below. Yet this has made the distribution cable to be easily handled and stripped for field termination.

 

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Conclusion

Tight-buffered cables are optimal for indoor applications. With the design of armored layer, they are also used for indoor/outdoor applications. Fiber-Mart provides a wide range of quality optical fiber cables with detailed specifications displayed for your convenient selecting. Per foot price of each fiber cable is flexible depending on the quantities of your order, making your cost of large order unexpected lower. Customers can also have the flexibility to custom the cable plant to best fit their needs.any question pls feel free to contact me at service@fiber-mart.com