Thanks to the fiber optic technology, we are running at a faster speed and are connected through advanced technology. Seamless and quick communication among users is possible through the various types of cables.
These are fiber patch cords that are the unsung heroes of this technology. They connect multiple devices, such as transceivers, switches, and many more.
In these fiber patch cords, there are many types. They define the different functionalities, compatibility, and working mechanisms. Do you want to know the multiple types of fiber patch cords and how they can impact the game? Let's go!
Fiber patch cords have various types of connectors and facilitate the connection between different devices.
Let's have a look!
Lucent connectors are mini versions of the fiber patch cords that have a small form factor, used in high-density applications. They are lightweight and perfect for modern centers. Their quality makes them a top choice for various applications.
Snap-in connectors or subscriber connectors are famous for their snap-in designs. Because of their square shape, they cause a minimal loss of data.
Their Ultima use is in the data centers and telecom networks. Ethernet networks, fiber to the home (FTTH), are also deployed for quick installation and low cost.
Old but gold! Straight tip connectors come with a twist-lock mechanism and are used in coaxial cables.
Their twist-lock design is often used in legacy systems. Their common applications include Campus networks, early LANs. They are durable and stable connectors with a powerful role in various systems.
FC connectors are also known as Ferrule connectors. If you are deploying the fiber patch cords in high-vibration conditions, such as industrial sectors or military setups, FC connectors are the ultimate choice. They have a screw-on design and provide a tight fixing of the cables.
Used in high-vibration environments, they are high effective for data transmission through multiple devices without compromising the safety of the devices.
Is speed what you need? You don't have to worry about anything as the Multi-Fiber Push-On/Pull-Off is here. With a powerful and fast speed, they offer flawless support.
They come with a single connector housing 12, 24, or even 48 fibers. Because of high speed, they are useful for hyperscale data centers and 40G/100G/400G networks.
Cable mode can be a single mode or multimode. Each mode plays a different role. Let's discuss both of these.
Single-mode patch cords have a single light path and are useful to transmit data over longer distances. They face less signal losses and hence, are able to communicate the signals over kilometers without losing the integrity.
Technical specifications include:
● Core Diameter: 9 µm (microns)
● Cladding Diameter: 125 µm (standard for all fiber types)
● Jacket Color: Typically yellow
● Wavelengths Used: 1310 nm and 1550 nm
The benefits of such cables are:
● Very low attenuation (~0.35 dB/km at 1310 nm)
● Ideal for telecommunications, long-haul networking, FTTH (Fiber to the Home), metro, and core networks
● Higher bandwidth potential compared to multimode
Multimode patch cords let the light travel in multiple directions. Therefore, they are useful only for short distances.
Technical specifications include:
● Core Diameters: 50 µm or 62.5 µm
● Cladding Diameter: 125 µm
● Jacket Colors:
● Orange for OM1 and OM2
● Aqua for OM3 and OM4
● Lime green for OM5
● Wavelengths Used: 850 nm and 1300 nm
Advantages of multimode patch cords are:
● Cost-effective for short runs
● LED or VCSEL sources (Vertical-Cavity Surface-Emitting Lasers)
● Easier to splice and align due to wider core
● Preferred for data centers, LANs, server rooms, and SANs (Storage Area Networks)
Fiber count and structure can also define when and how you can use the system. Let's have three crucial types of fiber optic structure.
● Simplex has one fiber and enables one-way communication.
● On the other hand, duplex allows the two ways of communication because of multiple fibers.
Uniboot designs combine the two fibers in a single jacket. It makes the structure compact and easy to handle. While the push and pull tab designs feature a different range of applications because of their unique designs.
The name is enough to describe this type of optical fiber patch cord. They have a robust structure made of steel or aluminum spiral armor.
The features include:
● Crush-resistant (resists forces up to 450 N or more)
● Rodent-proof
● Abrasion-resistant
● Retains optical performance
Category | Type | Core Size | Jacket Color | Typical Use Case | Key Advantage |
Cable Mode | Single-mode (OS1/OS2) | 9/125 µm | Yellow | Long-distance telecom, WAN | Ultra-low loss over long distances |
Multi-mode (OM1–OM5) | 50 or 62.5/125 µm | Orange, Aqua, Lime Green | Data centers, LANs | High bandwidth for short runs | |
Fiber Structure | Simplex | One fiber | Varies | Sensors, unidirectional devices | Lower cost, minimal complexity |
Duplex | Two fibers | Varies (often zipcord) | Switches, routers, full-duplex networks | Bi-directional transmission | |
Uniboot | Two fibers (1 cable) | Often Aqua or Yellow | High-density panels | Space-saving, better airflow | |
Push-Pull Tab | One or Two fibers | Varies | Dense or hard-to-reach port areas | Easy handling without tools | |
Armored | One or Two fibers | Rugged, often black | Harsh environments, outdoor, industrial | Crush-proof, rodent-proof, durable |
The selection of the right fiber patch cord depends on various factors. We have added the range of hinge points that make a better choice.
Where are you working? It is a straightforward question to decide whether and which cable can be the ultimate choice.
For example, you are working in the data centers and telecom spaces. High-density LC connectors are a peerless choice. However, outdoor places require ruggedized ST or FC. Before making a choice, know the applications.
How long is your communication range? Based on the short or long range, you can decide on the distance and bandwidth.
We have two options here.
● Use single-mode for long-distance communication.
● Choose multimode for high bandwidth at shorter ranges.
The goal of the fiber patch cord is to link the devices and make communication possible. Therefore, connector compatibility is the first step toward integrity.
If you play with incompatible components, it is a headache to manage such cases and deal with the network complexity.
The data translation occurs during transmission through the optical systems. The insertion losses and reflection losses can hurt your system.
You should chase only high-end cables that have a lower insertion loss and a high reflection of the signals. That way, you can ensure a seamless transmission of signals.
Jacket materials protect the fiber patch cords. First, check your installation environment and its requirements. Then you decide on the following types of jackets.
● PVC: For general indoor use
● LSZH (Low Smoke Zero Halogen): For safety in enclosed spaces
● OFNR (Optical Fiber Nonconductive Riser): Fire-resistant for vertical runs in buildings
How can we ultimately forget the standards? The rules of the road define how safe or better your systems are. Many standards come at this point.
They can be TIA, EIA, or EIC. You should check all these standards and ensure your fiber patch cords come with the proper compliance.
When it comes to the selection of a premium range of fiber patch cords, SDGI cables are the ultimate choice. Their newer and premium solutions are the talk of the town. Let's have a look at what they offer in this fiber patch cord solution.
Almost all types of connectors and cable type combinations are there. You can select from LC, SC, ST, FC, and MPO connectors paired with single-mode or multimode cables. All of them have a premium construction.
Do you have some specific requirements regarding range, connection compatibility, or types? Guess what? We also offer OEM options to keep you onboard with the best and customized fiber patch cords.
Usually, we apply the ISO standards to filter out the useless components from the quality ones. Moreover, the strict quality checks are there to ensure the highest performance of the fiber patch cords.
Where do you want to ship? If you wish to ship your fiber patch cords locally or internationally, we are ready to undertake all the hassles. Relax and enjoy the flawless support.
In the grand networking systems, fiber patch cords seem small components, but their role is defining the whole technology. Choosing the right fiber patch cord ensures efficient, reliable network performance. Understanding connector types, cable modes, and application needs is key to a seamless networking experience.
Do you want to grab the best quality cables and expert consultation? No need to worry about it, as you can contact SDGI for specialist guidance and top-grade fiber patch cord solutions. Explore our types of fiber patch cords.
