When selecting fiber optic cables, one must consider not only the fiber count and fiber type but also the cable's outer sheath based on the intended application. Key points to consider include:
1. For outdoor applications: Armored cables are recommended for direct burial; for aerial installations, black-sheathed cables with two or more strength members are suitable.
2. For indoor applications: Flame retardancy, toxicity, and smoke emission characteristics must be considered. Flame-retardant, low-smoke types are generally suitable for conduits and forced-ventilation areas, whereas flame-retardant, zero-smoke, and non-toxic types should be used in exposed environments.
3. For indoor vertical cabling: Stranded-core cables are suitable; for horizontal cabling: breakout (distribution) cables are suitable.
4. For transmission distances under 2 km: Multimode cables can be used; for distances exceeding 2 km: single-mode cables or systems with repeaters should be used.
The above points focus solely on application considerations; practical implementation requires flexibility. Given the complex and diverse nature of cabling environments-where various issues can arise unexpectedly-it is essential to adhere strictly to cabling standards during planning and installation. By flexibly analyzing and addressing problems as they occur, successful outcomes can be achieved.
Single-mode fiber: Transmits only the fundamental mode (light travels solely along the fiber's core). By completely eliminating modal dispersion, single-mode fiber offers a wide transmission bandwidth, making it ideal for high-capacity, long-distance fiber optic communication. It typically operates at wavelengths of 1310 nm or 1550 nm.
Multimode fiber: Supports the transmission of multiple modes at a given operating wavelength. Due to dispersion or aberrations, this type of fiber exhibits poorer transmission performance, narrower bandwidth, lower capacity, and shorter transmission distances.
