Choosing The Right Fiber Optic Patch Cables
Choosing the Right Fiber Optic Patch Cables
Fiber optic patch cables are cables which have optic connectors on their ends. They are primarily used to connect a computer work station to a wall outlet or in conjunction with a fiber optic patch panel. Let's discuss this wiring option and its benefits, as well as how to find the right ones for your needs.
Common types
Fiber optic patch cables are divided into several different categories. These categories are based on their optical fiber mode, termination types, fiber cable type, fiber cable sizes and connector polishing styles.
OPTICAL FIBER MODE. There are three modes. Single mode cables make use of 9/125 micron cable and connectors at each end. Yellow is the normal color of the single mode fiber cable jacket. A multimode patch cable uses 50/125 or 62.5/125 micron cable. They have optic connectors at both ends, and have an orange jacket color. a 10 gig multimode patch cable is optimized for 850nm laser based 10Gig Ethernet. they're compatible with most existing network equipment. They also provide nearly three times the bandwidth that normal 62.5/125 multimode fibers provide. The 10 Gigabit is rated to work at distances of up to 300 meters, using VCSEL (Vertical Cavity Surface Emitting Lasers). The 10Gig usually has an aqua colored jacket.
TERMINATION TYPES. There are two main termination types. First is the same-connector type. This cable has the same kind of connector on each end. These could be ST, LC, SC, FC or other. The other type is the hybrid connector type. This one has a different connector on both ends. One could be SC, with the other being FC, LC, ST, or other.
FIBER CABLE TYPES. There are three types of fiber cable. These include the Simplex patch cable, with has one connector and one fiber on each end; the duplex, which has two connectors and two fibers on each end (each marked either A or B), and ribbon fan-out. This one has a ribbon filter and multi fibers along with a ribbon fiber connector. At the far end are connectors such as SC, LC, ST, etc.
FIBER CABLE SIZES. There are many different sizes available in fiber optic patch cables. You can pick a jacket size for your specific application. The sizes available include the 250um bare fiber, the 900um tight buffer fiber, the 1.6mm fiber cable, the 2.0mm fiber cable, and the 3,0 mm fiber cable.
CONNECTOR POLISHING STYLES. Fiber optic connectors are polished to several different shapes in order to minimize the back reflection. This is especially important for single-mode applications. Back reflection grades that you can find include -60db, -50db, -40db, and -30db.
Fiber optic connectors are designed and polished to different shapes to minimize back reflection. This is particularly important in single mode applications. Typical back reflection grades are -30dB, -40dB, -50dB and -60dB.
Now that you know what's available, here's some practical advice. First, make sure that you keep the entire cable, including the cable pinout, clean. Popular cleaning methods include reel-connector cleaner, duster, swab cleaner, or even isopropyl alcohol / lint-free wipes.
And always be careful when handling your fiber optic cables. Watch to avoid any kinks, and use tie-wraps to keep them untangled.
Using fiber optic patch cables is essential for those creating superior network systems. Hopefully this guide will help you select the right product for your application.
