Multimode Fiber Distance Chart
Introduction:
Multimode fiber is widely used in networking and communication systems to transmit data over short distances. It is known for its ability to carry multiple light signals simultaneously, allowing for higher bandwidth transmission. In this article, we will present a distance chart for different types of multimode fibers, outlining their maximum achievable distances and the most suitable applications for each.
1. OM1 multimode fiber:
OM1 (Optical Multimode 1) fiber is the oldest type of multimode fiber and typically has a core diameter of 62.5 microns. It operates at a wavelength of 850nm and can achieve a maximum distance of 33 meters for 1 Gigabit Ethernet and 300 meters for Fast Ethernet (100 Mbps). It is suitable for short-distance applications such as local area networks (LANs) and data centers.
2. OM2 multimode fiber:
OM2 (Optical Multimode 2) fiber is an improved version of OM1 fiber with a smaller core diameter of 50 microns. It also operates at a wavelength of 850nm and offers a higher bandwidth than OM1 fiber. OM2 fiber can achieve a maximum distance of 82 meters for 1 Gigabit Ethernet and 600 meters for Fast Ethernet. It is suitable for applications that require slightly longer transmission distances than OM1, such as campus networks.
3. OM3 multimode fiber:
OM3 (Optical Multimode 3) fiber is designed for high-speed networks and supports 10 Gigabit Ethernet. It has a core diameter of 50 microns and operates at a wavelength of 850nm. OM3 fiber can achieve a maximum distance of 300 meters for 10 Gigabit Ethernet, making it ideal for backbone cabling, data centers, and other high-performance applications.
4. OM4 multimode fiber:
OM4 (Optical Multimode 4) fiber is an enhanced version of OM3 fiber with even higher bandwidth capabilities. It also has a core diameter of 50 microns and operates at a wavelength of 850nm. OM4 fiber can achieve a maximum distance of 550 meters for 10 Gigabit Ethernet, making it suitable for applications that require longer transmission distances or higher data rates.
5. OM5 multimode fiber:
OM5 (Optical Multimode 5) fiber, also known as wideband multimode fiber, is designed to support higher wavelength transmissions for short distances. It can operate at multiple wavelengths, including 850nm, 880nm, 910nm, and 940nm. OM5 fiber can achieve a maximum distance of 400 meters for 100 Gigabit Ethernet and is especially suitable for data centers and other high-density applications.
Conclusion:
Understanding the distance capabilities of different types of multimode fibers is crucial for designing and implementing efficient communication systems. The distance chart provided in this article offers a comprehensive overview of the maximum achievable distances for each type of multimode fiber. By considering the specific requirements of your application, you can choose the most suitable multimode fiber to ensure optimal performance and reliability.
