Important questions to ask before selecting fiber optic cable
With the fantastic capabilities yet a wide variety of fiber optic cables, it may be challenging to select the right type of cable for your project. As a fiber optic products supplier, we at Nassau National Cable know what to take into account when choosing an optic fiber cable. Here are the important factors to consider before you make an order.
Network distance
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a fiber optic cable is the distance of your network. Fiber optic line allows for data travel at high speed and long distances with minimum data loss. In particular, this wiring loses as little as 3% of data per 100 meters, which is significantly less than CAT6 wires, for example.
Also, depending on whether your distances are shorter or longer, you want to consider various fiber optic cable types, particularly singlemode or multimode cables. Let’s discuss the difference between these next.
Singlemode vs. Multimode
So the distance of your network determines which type of optic cable you need. Singlemode means that there is one pulse of light while multimode means that there are numerous light pulses.
- A singlemode cable has a smaller core and is more suitable for longer distances, such as more than 300 meters. These are usually fiber optic HDMI cables used for cable TV and telecommunications.
- A multimode wire has a bigger core and is best for larger volumes of data and shorter-distance networks.
An example of singlemode fiber optics cable is the Tight Buffered Cable, while the Loose Tube Cable is a multimode wire.
Cable size
Fiber optic cables, overall, have become quite thin and therefore, convenient to install and manage. While there are thicker and thinner wires due to the size of their core, this type of wiring is still thinner than the existing alternatives made of other materials.
So when planning your project and considering the use of different cables, keep in mind that a fiber optic wire will take up less space while providing excellent capabilities.
Connectors
Fiber optic connectors are another area of consideration for your project. The type of connectors you need will depend on your network, particularly the ports in your equipment. For instance, if there is a multifiber port in your network, you will have to select a fiber optic HDMI cable with a particular number of fibers.
Installation site
The environment conditions of the place where you are going to install your fiber optic cabling need to be taken into account when choosing the wiring. Because external factors can damage the wire or affect its performance and durability, make sure to check out different jacket options for the fiber optic wire.
For example, the jacket made of PVC, like in the Commscope Cable, can withstand lower temperatures than Tefzel™ jacketed cabling. Or the flame-retardant jacket of the Ribbon Cable makes it perfect for indoor and riser sites, but it is not a good choice for fiber cable outdoor installation.
Cost
With all the things discussed above, it is natural that the cost of every fiber optic wiring will differ. But at this point, you might have already narrowed down your choice to a certain type of fiber optic HDMI or other kinds of wire. Now it is time when the cost factor can play a role — compare your options and check out whether one offers a better cost-to-performance ratio than the other.
However, we don’t recommend neglecting the cable’s capabilities for the sake of cutting the project cost because this will end up being a less cost-effective option in the long run.
Where to buy fiber optic cables?
Now that you have answers to the most important questions on fiber optic products, check out our fiberoptic cable collection to find the one that fits your project needs best. If you need to address any other questions regarding which wire to choose, contact us and we will help you make the right choice.
