Before you search for fiber optic cable suppliers, be sure you know exactly what type of cable you need. Fiber optic cables come in a variety of styles to ensure they can meet a broad range of needs. If you have your old cables handy, you may be able to get this information easily. Otherwise, there are a few characteristics you will have to know to ensure you order the correct cables.
Multimode or Single Mode
There are two modes for fiber optic cables and they are not compatible with one another. This means that you can’t replace a single-mode cable with a multimode one or vice versa. Additionally, multimode cables are available in OM1, OM2, and OM3. These variations offer differences in bandwidth, speed, and distance. The cable you choose will depend on the hardware you’re using and its capabilities.
OFNR, OFNP, or LSZH Jackets
You’ll also need to know what type of coating or jacket is required. If you don’t know the type of jacket your old cables used, check with your fire department. They can tell you what’s required under your local fire codes. OFNR jackets don’t use metal fibers, eliminating the concern that electricity can be conducted and passed through the cables. OFNP jackets are designed to pass through floors in a multi-story building. LSZH jackets won’t give off smoke or toxic halogenic fumes.
Simplex or Duplex
When you visit fiber optic cable suppliers online, you’ll notice that some cables have one connector at each end while others have two connectors at each end. The duplex connector uses one cable to send data and one cable to receive data. If you only need to send or receive data, the simplex connector will meet your needs.
