The different cable types are explained below;



Multimode cable:

Multimode fibre carries multiple light rays or modes concurrently, each at a slightly different reflection angle within the fibre core. Multimode fibre has a larger core than single mode and is typically either 50? (Micron) or 62.5? (Micron) in diameter. Multimode fibre transmission is used for relatively short distances because the modes tend to disperse over longer lengths. The maximum distances of the cable depends on the application the cable is being used for. To run Gigabit over Multimode, a guideline of 550 Metres maximum for 50/125 cable and 220 Metres maximum for 62.5/125 cable should be used. For longer distances, Singlemode fibre is used. The most common application for Multimode is LAN's(Local Area Network).

Singlemode cable:

Singlemode fibre is designed for the transmission of a single ray or mode of light as a carrier over long-distance signal transmission. Singlemode fibre has a much smaller core than multimode fibre, between 8? and 10? most commonly called 9? (micron). Singlemode cable can carry Gigabit upto 5,000 Metres. Singlemode provides greater bandwidth than multimode.

Loose Tube (L/T) cable:

This is the protective tube surrounding one or more fibres and is usually found in cables used for outdoor installations. The protective tube loosely surrounds the optical fibre cores and is often filled with protective gel.

Tight Buffered cable:

A protective coating (usually 900 ?m) that is used to "buffer" the primary coating of fibres. Provides strength, durability, easy handling and termination.

Internal/External cable:

Fibre Cable that is suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications. The cable construction usually uses a gel filled loose tube containing the fibres.

Armoured cable:

The inner jacket of the cable is overlaid with a protective armouring. Two main types are Steel Wire Armoured (SWA) and Corrugated Steel Tape armoured (CST or STA). The armouring gives the best resistance against rodent attack or mechanical damage and provides high tensile strength and crush resistance.

Toslink:

Toslink (also known as ADAP Optical) is a relatively new edition to the fibre optic family and is generally used in the consumer audio market. Toslink cables can use many different adapters and is highly versatile (although a 10 meter limit is enforced).

The types of connections are;

ST:

It has a bayonet mount and a long cylindrical ferrule to hold the Fibre. Most ferrules are ceramic. And because they are spring-loaded, you have to make sure they are seated properly. If you have high loss, reconnect them to see if it makes a difference.

SC:

It is a snap-in connector that is widely used in singlemode systems for it's excellent performance. It's a snap-in connector that latches with a simple push-pull motion. It is also available in a duplex configuration

LC:

Is half the size of the ST. Otherwise, it's a standard ceramic ferrule connector, easily terminated with any adhesive. Good performance, highly favoured for singlemode.

MTRJ:

is a duplex connector with both fibres in a single polymer ferrule. It uses pins for alignment and has male and female versions. Multimode only, field terminated only by prepolished/splice method.

FC/PC:

Has been one of the most popular singlemode connectors for many years. It screws on firmly, but make sure you have the key aligned in the slot properly before tightening. It's being replaced by SC's and LC's.