Fiber Optic Cables

Far More Bandwidth Than Copper

Copper Ethernet tops out at 100 meters per run. A fiber optic Ethernet cable can carry 10G across a campus on multimode and across a city on single-mode. When bandwidth needs grow, you usually upgrade the optics at each end and keep the glass in the walls.

Immune to Electrical Interference

Fiber carries light and not current. Motors and power lines can't scramble the signal. That makes fiber the safe choice for factories and anywhere copper runs pick up noise.

Lighter and Thinner

A single strand of fiber carries more traffic than a thick bundle of copper. Smaller cables free up space in trays and conduits. They also improve airflow in crowded racks.

Better Security

Tapping fiber without causing a noticeable loss is very hard. Government sites and healthcare networks often choose fiber to keep sensitive data protected.

Room to Grow

The glass you install today can handle speeds that don't exist yet. Many sites that ran OS2 a decade ago now push 100G over the same strands. Glass bought once can serve through several rounds of switch upgrades.

Data Center Backbones

High-density trunks like our MTP-12 OM4 Elite Type A trunk link rows of cabinets with minimal tray space. Short patch cords then connect each switch port.

Building and Campus Networks

Fiber runs between telecom rooms on different floors and between buildings. Riser and plenum jackets keep each run up to fire code.

Internet Service and FTTH

Providers use single-mode fiber to deliver gigabit service to homes and businesses. APC connectors keep reflections low on these PON networks.

Industrial and Harsh Environments

Fiber shrugs off the electrical noise around heavy machinery. Factories with plants or substations rely on it for control and monitoring links.

Security Cameras and Long Runs

IP cameras on parking lots and distant gates often sit well past copper's 100-meter limit. A fiber link with a media converter at each end closes that gap cleanly.

What is the difference between single-mode fiber and multimode fiber?

Single-mode has a very small core of 9 µm for long distances. Multimode is used for shorter runs. They are lower in cost and used inside buildings and data centers.

Is fiber faster than copper Ethernet?

Both can travel at high speeds, but fiber can go much further. Copper Ethernet is limited to 100 meters. Fiber supports 10G and higher over kilometers.

Is it possible to use fiber for home internet?

A number of providers now offer fiber to the door. The ONT converts the light signal to Ethernet on the inside for your router.

What is OFNP and OFNR?

OFNP is plenum-rated fiber for air-handling areas. Riser-rated for vertical runs between floors, OFNR is a type of fire-rated material. Riser can be replaced by Plenum, but not vice versa.

What type of connector do I need?

LC is the most popular option for today's switches and transceivers. SC is still used in telecom equipment, and MTP/MPO is used for high-density trunks.

What are the precautions to take when installing fiber?

Bend radius, pull-by strength members, and leave connector caps on until connected. Ensure that each end face is cleaned prior to mating.