OM3 on LC Hardware
Many enterprise networks still run OM3 backbones that were installed for 10G. Moving those links onto LC panels lets them plug straight into modern SFP+ switch ports with LC-to-LC cords. This set handles that termination without changing the fiber in the walls.
What OM3 Can Carry
OM3 offers 2,000 MHz·km of effective modal bandwidth at 850 nm. IEEE 802.3 rates it for 10GBASE-SR to 300 meters and 25GBASE-SR to 70 meters. It also supports 40GBASE-SR4 to 100 meters. For most office floors and small campuses, that's more reach than you'll ever need.
The 10G Loss Budget on OM3
IEEE allows 2.6 dB of total channel insertion loss for 10GBASE-SR on a 300-meter OM3 link. That budget covers fiber, connectors, and splices together. Factory-polished LC connectors and clean fusion splices help you stay well under it.
Tight Buffer Handling
The 900 µm buffer is bonded to the 250 µm coated fiber. It gives each strand a firm, kink-resistant feel inside small LC cassettes. Strip it in short sections of about 1.5 to 2 cm with a precision stripper.
Pairing the Six Fibers
Six strands make three duplex circuits. Following TIA-598 order, pair blue with orange, green with brown, and slate with white. Using the same pairing at both ends keeps transmit and receive lined up.
Where It Fits
These pigtails suit wiring closets, small server rooms, and IDF-to-MDF backbones inside one building. They're also a sensible choice when an older SC-based OM3 panel is being replaced with LC hardware during a switch refresh.
