When Are Optical Fiber Breakout Cables the Ideal Choice for Multi-Core Transmission?

2025.06.19

Introduction

 

In this data-driven world, everyone is running at a faster pace. The modes of communication have transformed in the past decades. One of the emerging technologies is here— the optical fiber system.

 

Sitting miles away, you can transmit the signals and communicate without any hassle. There are no interruptions in communication. That is why data centers and wireless transmission devices use optical fiber breakout cables to transfer data.

 

But where do you use these cables? If you want to know the answers, this guide is for you. We will discuss quality points and mention top optical ground wire suppliers!

 

Among these, SDGI is famous for its quality transmission and premium solutions for this technology.

 

What Are Optical Fiber Breakout Cables?

 

Optical fiber breakout cables are unique cables with a separate shield for each fiber inside the cable. Compared to standard fiber optic ground wires, all the fibers are protected by the jacketing and don't require additional security during the data transmission. That is not happening with the standard optical ground wires.

 

Let's discuss the structure of the cable.

 

● Core. The central core contains the fibers separated by the outer jacketing.

● Outer jacket. It is the shield that separates the individual fibers packed in the central core of the optical fiber breakout cables.

 

Types of breakout cables

 

● Fan-out assemblies. They have a fan-out kit to separate the fibers with connectors.

● Breakout assemblies. These are plug-and-play solutions offering a simple option for the users.

 

Connector options include:

 

● MPO/MTP to LC: Used for QSFP+ to SFP+ breakout.

● MTP to SC/FC/ST: Often for telecom applications or legacy system integration.

 

Advantages

 

If you are using optical fiber breakout cables, they have a few advantages over the distribution cables.

 

● There is no need for the distribution boxes or fan-out kits.

● It is more durable and safer without additional security.

● There is a reduced risk of optical fiber damage.

 

Key Scenarios Where Breakout Cables Are Ideal

 

Breakout cables are not good to go for every application and industry. Instead, they are helpful for various scenarios. Here is the list.

 

Data Center High-Density Connections

 

Modern data centers need high-speed data transmission to store data and make records. How is it possible without breakout cables?

Breakout cables connect high-port switches to multiple servers and eliminate the need for patch panels and additional transceivers.

Common examples are:

 

● 40G QSFP+ to 4 x 10G SFP+

● 100G QSFP28 to 4 x 25G SFP28

 

2. Telecom Room Interconnection

 

Breakout cables are ideal for the telecom room interconnection as they don't require an intermediate connection.

 

Direct device-to-device connections without patch panels ensure a fast setup for communication.

 

Key benefits for this setup include:

 

● Better space management in crowded optical distribution frames.

● Reduced time in deployment

● Fewer connector losses as cables run directly from switch to switch or switch to router.

 

3. Direct Equipment-to-Equipment Fiber Runs

 

Many networks and systems require a point-to-point connection. Typical examples are radio base stations, NOCs (Network Operations Centers), or campus buildings. Breakout cables are an ideal solution with minimal loss and better distribution of power and signals.

 

There are reduced numbers of failure points and easy success! It is perfect for short-to-medium distance links.

 

4. FTTH/FTTB Deployments

 

Fiber-to-home or building deployments require multi-core cables. Later, they are split into various units or floors.

 

The pros of these cables include:

 

● Serving multi-dwelling units (MDUs) or commercial buildings with multiple offices.

● Simplifies last-mile connectivity without additional splice boxes.

● It avoids pulling multiple single-core fibers, saving space in conduits.

 

5. Broadcast & Professional AV Installations

 

Broadcasts and professional systems include multi-camera setups, remote feeds, and high-bandwidth audio-video streams. They require a speedy connection and better results. Optical fiber breakout cables offer flawless speed and strong signals.

 

A few examples are here.

 

● Connecting OB (Outside Broadcast) vans to cameras on-site.

● Routing feeds from multiple cameras to a central control room or mixer.

● Facilitating broadcast signal redundancy with dual fiber paths.

 

6. Industrial Automation and Control Networks

 

Industrial environmental conditions are harsh and require a robust structure for the survival of the optical fiber cables. Connecting sensors, controllers, and control rooms in demanding environments is challenging.

 

Optical fiber breakout cables already have all the protective mechanisms and survive in these conditions.

 

Benefits of Using Breakout Cables in Multi-Core Transmission

 

Optical fiber breakout cables offer several benefits that attract users and bring a legacy to optical transmission.

 

Here is the list of benefits.

 

Simplified installation and cable management.

 

There is no complex installation system. There are fewer devices with direct connections and a loss of connectors.

 

The better cable management and easy connection points allow the users to install without expertise. There is also less need for maintenance.

 

Reduced connection loss and failure points.

 

There are fewer patch panels or interconnection areas. That means the signal transmission is direct and reduces the losses. Moreover, you don't have to invest money in the interconnection systems. Reduced failure points and connection losses ensure better system efficiency.

 

Faster deployment with factory-terminated options.

 

Optical fiber breakout cables come with a faster deployment due to plug-and-play installation. There is no need for the on-site termination. Here are two crucial positive points.

 

● It reduces labor costs and errors in critical projects.

● It is ideal for urgent infrastructure upgrades or expansions.

 

Space-saving for high-density network infrastructures.

 

High-density infrastructure has a compact space available due to the distribution of wires. The deployment of optical fiber breakout cables cuts the need for space. It already combines complex fibers into a single cable with separate jacketing and safety. Therefore, a compact space is sufficient to install these cables and harness their benefits in high-density infrastructures.

 

How to Choose the Right Breakout Cable

 

Selection of the right breakout cable is a challenging task, but you can make it possible. For example, choose the following factors when selecting the breakout cables.

 

Number of cores

 

There are many cores here—4, 6, 8, 12, 24-core cables. How many connection ends do you want? Anticipate earlier. Sometimes, you have to expand the system in the future and might need more endpoints. Therefore, choose the number of cores based on your needs.

 

Connector types (LC/SC/MTP)

 

There are many connector types in the optical fiber breakout cables. They are helpful for different purposes.

 

Let's have a look.

 

● LC for high-density and SFP-compatible gear.

● SC for legacy systems or larger equipment ports.

● MTP/MPO for trunk cables and backbone distribution.

 

Fiber type (OM3/OM4/OS2)

 

Single-mode vs multimode fiber. Which one do you want to choose? Select based on the applications and usages. For example:

 

● OM3/OM4 (Multimode) is an ideal choice for short-distance, high-bandwidth applications like those within data centers.

● OS2 (Singlemode): Ideal for long-haul connections, telecom, and FTTH.

 

Jacket material and environmental rating

 

Environmental conditions matter a lot. Jacketing materials can vary depending on the conditions.

 

Here are a few examples to select from.

 

● LSZH (Low Smoke Zero Halogen) is made for safety in enclosed spaces.

● Armored or Ruggedized Jackets are often helpful for industrial or outdoor use.

● Building codes for vertical or air-handling installations require Plenum or Riser Rated.

 

Importance of partnering with a reliable manufacturer.

 

Always contact a reliable manufacturer. The benefits include:

 

● Pre-sales consultation and engineering support.

● Custom configurations based on project specs.

● Factory testing and certification

 

Why Choose SDGI Cable for Breakout Cables

 

SDGI is a global leader with a range of fiber breakout cables and optical ground wires. The advanced technology and flawless engineering keep you entertained with the best technology.

Here is why you should rely more on the SDGI cables than anyone else.

 

Diverse Product Range

 

You can dig out almost all the fiber optic ground wire products. Even breakout cables can be there. Moreover, from OM1 to OS2, jacket types, including indoor/outdoor and armored, make SDGI a top solution in the market.

 

Customization Options

 

You have some specific requirements regarding the length and quality.  Get tailor-made breakout lengths and enjoy a range of connectors for your optical fiber breakout cables.

 

Get facilities like:

 

● Connector types per end (LC-LC, MTP to LC, etc.).

● Color-coded jackets or numbering for easier installation.

 

Rigorous Quality Assurance

 

SDGI never compromises on the quality. It delivers the best results with ISO-certified processes. Moreover, it tests cables for insertion loss, return loss, and visual defects. If there are defects and quality issues, SDGI treats them immediately.

 

Field-Proven Success

 

SDGI has shipped fiber optic ground wires globally. Over 300 enterprises have used our cables and streamlined their communication. We receive positive feedback for on-time delivery, consistency, and post-sales support.

 

Conclusion

 

Breakout cables are blessings for modern technological systems. They are helpful in various settings, for example, data centers, telecom interconnects, FTTH deployments, AV systems, and industrial automation.

 

With advanced technology and easy upgrades, you don't have to compromise on the security of optical ground wires.

 

Do you want the best supplier for your optical fiber breakout cables? Contact SDGI Cable for expert advice and tailored breakout cable solutions. Also, see a list of wires we have in our collection. They are all qualitative and maximize the efficiency of signal transmission!


licheng@sdgi.com.cn
86-755-26506800
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