Many factors need consideration before purchasing fiber optic cables for transceivers. Find out tips to make the investment worthwhile.

Fiber optical transceivers are electronic and photonic devices that receive and transmit data through optical fibers instead of electrical wires. Also known as optical modules, various factors must be considered before choosing the right optic cables for transceivers. But first, what arefiber optic cables? Let’s find out.

Basics of Fiber Optic Cables

Optical or fiber optic cables transmit data in the form of light pulses through optically pure and flexible plastic or glass fibers. They’ve become popular for telecommunication and Ethernet networking applications because of fast data transmission speeds over extensive distances.

These cables have a thin glass tube at the core that transports light pulses generated by a light-emitting diode or laser. Cores can be single-mode or multimode with varying diameters. Then comes the cladding, a thin glass layer that surrounds the fiber core to protect it and reflect light into it. This causes light waves to travel the fiber’s length.

Another thicker plastic layer, known as primary coating or buffer, prevents excessive bending, absorbs shocks, and reinforces the fiber's core. Gel-filled sleeves or Kevlar strands, known as strengthening members, also prevent excessive crushing or pulling forces during the installation.

The final layer of protection is provided by a cable or outer jacket, which strengthens the cable even more and protects the core conductor as well. The jacket is color-coded to determine the cable's rating and type of optical fibers. 

Factors to Consider When Purchasing Fiber Optic Cables

BEND RADIUS

While fiber cables are simple to install, the cable's minimum bend radius must be maintained during installation. Bending the cable tighter than the minimum bend radius can lead to breakage or increased attenuation. The attenuation should restore itself to a normal state when the bend is relaxed if the cable elements are not damaged.

Distance and Network Speed

Multimode fiber was once the first choice because it was cheaper than single-mode fibers. But since the cost difference isn’t significant now, it allows us to focus on the network speed and connection distance dictated by the networking design.

Multimode fibers may be a better choice when large amounts of data need to be moved over relatively short distances. Consider single-mode fibers if data transmission distance and speed are key requirements. In addition, the MMF range highly depends on the cable’s OM rating.

Since many factors need to be considered to ensure you make the right purchase, it’s best to discuss your options with specialists at Fibermart. We’ve helped many businesses invest in future-proof networks that support growth and innovation.

Our extensive range for improved connectivity includes everything from connector systems to joints, cables, attenuators, and other world-class products that guarantee high performance for all networks.

You can buy fiber patch cables, optical amplifiers, MPO cables, MTP cables, LC and SC cables, fiber optic adaptors, fiber quick connections, fiber couplers, quick connectors, PLC splitters, and so much more from our store.

Reach out to learn how we help businesses stay ahead of the networking curve with world-class solutions.