Fiber Patchcord

Based on different specifications and standards, the common fiber patch cords can be categorified from the perspective of fiber cable mode, transmission mode, jacket type, connector type, and polishing type.

Fiber Cable Mode: Single Mode or Multimode

The mode of fiber patch cables indicates how light beams travel within the fiber. There are two fiber cable modes: single mode and multimode.

Single Mode Fiber Patch: Single mode fiber patch lead only allows one mode of light to pass along its length with a very thin diameter of 8-10 microns, thus it can carry signals at much higher speeds with lower attenuation. Single mode fiber has two varieties: OS1 and OS2, which are different in construction and application. In Comparison Between OS1 and OS2 SMF Cables, the differences between OS1 and OS2 are illustrated. In general, OS1 and OS2 are both applicable for long-haul transmission but OS2 is more suitable for long-haul transmission by offering better performance with fewer losses.

Multimode Fiber Patch Cord: The core of the multimode fiber patch cord is bigger, typically 50 or 62.5 microns, which enables multiple light modes to be transmitted. It comes in five varieties supporting different transmission rates or distances: 62.5-micron OM1, 50-micron OM2, 50-micron OM3, 50-micron OM4, and 50-micron OM5, which can be differentiated by standard jacket colors. Since multiple light paths travel down the cable, the distance which multimode fiber jumpers can reach is usually short. For short-distance transmission within a building or campus, multimode fiber patch cords are the best-suited type. 

Number of Fiber Strands: Simplex or Duplex

According to the number of fiber strands, there are simplex and duplex fiber patch cord. Simplex fiber patch cord contains one single strand of fiber with one simplex connector on each end. It can be linked with a pair of BiDi transceiver modules featuring with one port. Whereas duplex fiber patch cord consists of two strands of glass or plastic with one duplex connector (or considered as two simplex connectors). It is often linked with common transceivers or dual fiber BiDi transceivers.

Jacket Type: PVC or LSZH

PVC and LSZH are used to describe the common jacket material of fiber patch cord. Fiber patch cables covered with PVC jacket are flexible at normal installation temperatures. Compared with PVC patch cords, LSZH patch cords are more rigid and less flexible but they contain the flame retardant compound that doesn’t emit toxic fumes if it burns. PVC fiber optic patch cord is usually used for indoor applications such as horizontal runs from the wiring center. While LSZH cable is used in unventilated areas exposed to public, such as subways and tunnels and also used for rooms that are not easy to get out quickly.

Connector Type: LC, SC, ST or Others

There are many connector types used in fiber patch cables such as LC, SC, ST, MTP or MPO. Aside from these connectors, there is a latest connector design called MDC connector, which enables the highest achievable connector density by delivering a 3X advantage over a standard LC connector. The different connector types are to plug into different interfaces, so you’d better affirm the interface type of the devices you are using the first time. If divided by the criteria whether the connector on each side is the same, they can be divided into same-connector type fiber patch cord and hybrid fiber patch cord. Fiber patch cords that have the same type of connector on both ends includes LC to LC fiber patch cord, SC to SC fiber patch cord and etc. While hybrid fiber patch cord has different connectors on each end, like fiber patch cord LC to SC. If the port type of devices on both sides are the same, you can choose the same-connector type fiber patch cord, or you need choose the hybrid one.

Polishing Type: PC, UPC or APC

Fiber optic connectors are designed and polished to different shapes to minimize back reflection, which is particularly important in single mode applications. According to this connector polish types, there are PC, UPC, and APC fiber patch cords. Nowadays PC polish type has been replaced by UPC type. Whether you choose UPC or APC depends on your actual application. Since APC provides less insertion loss than UPC, the APC fiber patch cables are more applicable for high bandwidth applications and long-distance links, such as passive optical network (PON) and wavelength division multiplex (WDM). Whereas UPC fiber patch cords apply to optical systems that are less sensitive to insertion loss such as digital TV and telephony.

Before buying fiber patch cords, there are several important factors to consider to ensure that they meet your networking requirements. Let's explore the key considerations before making your purchase.

1Connector Types

The connector type is a crucial factor to consider, as it determines the compatibility with your network equipment. Common connector types include LC, SC, ST, and MTP/MPO. Ensure that the patch cords' connectors match the ports on your devices to establish proper connections.

Fiber Types

There are different types of fiber, such as single-mode and multi-mode. Single-mode fiber is suitable for long-distance transmissions, while multi-mode fiber is ideal for shorter distances. Choose the appropriate fiber type based on the distance requirements of your network.

Cable Lengths

The length of the patch cords is crucial to ensure proper connections between devices. Measure the required cable lengths accurately, and consider adding some slack for flexibility during installation and maintenance.

Mode Types

For multi-mode fiber, consider the mode type, either OM1, OM2, OM3, or OM4, based on the bandwidth and transmission requirements of your network. OM4 provides higher bandwidth and supports longer distances compared to OM1 and OM2.

Jacket Materials

The jacket material affects the patch cords' durability and resistance to environmental factors. PVC is commonly used for indoor applications, while LSZH (Low Smoke Zero Halogen) is suitable for environments where fire safety is a concern.

Performance Specifications

Check the performance specifications of the fiber patch cords, such as insertion loss and return loss. Lower insertion loss and higher return loss indicate better signal transmission and reception quality.

Duplex or Simplex

Determine whether you need duplex or simplex patch cords. Duplex patch cords have two fibers in a single cable, making them suitable for bidirectional communication. Simplex patch cords have only one fiber and are used for unidirectional communication.

Polarity

For MTP/MPO connectors, consider the polarity requirements of your network. Options include Type A, Type B, and Type C polarities. Choosing the correct polarity ensures proper connections between different network components.

Budget and Quality

While budget considerations are important, prioritize the quality of the fiber patch cords. High-quality patch cords ensure reliable and stable connections, reducing the risk of signal loss and network downtime.

Vendor and Warranty

Choose reputable vendors known for their high-quality products and customer support. Consider the warranty period offered by the vendor to protect your investment and ensure customer satisfaction.