Detailed introduction and features of OM1/OM2 armored fiber optic patch cords

Product Overview

OM1/OM2 armored fiber patch cords are multimode fiber solutions designed for complex industrial environments or high electromagnetic interference scenarios. They add a metal armor layer (such as stainless steel or aluminum alloy) to the traditional multimode fiber (OM1/OM2) to provide additional mechanical protection, anti-interference ability and flame retardancy. Suitable for short-distance, high-bandwidth transmission scenarios, such as data center inter-rack connections, industrial automation control, security monitoring, medical equipment, etc., especially in environments where physical damage or electromagnetic interference (EMI) is required.

II. Core features

1. Fiber Types and Properties
   • OM1: 62.5/125 μm core, supports 10Gb/s transmission to 300 meters (850nm), 1Gb/s to 1000 meters (850nm).
   • OM2: 50/125μm core, supports 10Gb/s transmission to 550 meters (850nm), 1Gb/s to 1000 meters (850nm).
   • Effective Modal Bandwidth (EMB): OM1-100MHz · km, OM2-500MHz · km.
2. Armor layer structure
   • materialStainless steel or aluminum alloy braid/metal tube, providing tensile (> 30N) and compression (> 800N/10cm) resistance.
   • sheathLow smoke and halogen-free (LSZH) or flame-retardant polyvinyl chloride (PVC) to UL94 V-0 fire rating.
3. optical performance parameters
   • insertion loss: ≤ 0.5dB (typical value, including connector).
   • return loss: ≥ 30dB (PC connector), supports multi-mode laser optimization (e.g. OM3/OM4 requires additional instructions).
   • Temperature range: -20 ° C to + 70 ° C to adapt to fluctuations in the industrial environment.
   • bending radiusStatic ≥ 15mm, dynamic ≥ 30mm (armor layer enhances bending resistance).
4. Connector type
   • interfaceLC, SC, FC, ST, MTP/MPO (supports 12/24 core high-density cabling).
   • Polishing typePC (physical contact) is the main one, and some support APC (8 ° inclined surface, reducing return loss).
5. application scenario
   • Industrial AutomationProduction line equipment networking, robot control signal transmission.
   • Data Center: High-density wiring between racks, replacing copper cables that are susceptible to interference.
   • security monitoring: The outdoor camera is connected to the switch (waterproof connector is required).
   • medical equipmentMRI/CT scanner data transmission (anti-electromagnetic interference).
6. Advantage summary
   • physical protectionThe armor layer is resistant to mechanical stress, rodent damage, and chemical corrosion.
   • anti-interferenceMetal shielding isolates EMI/RFI to ensure signal integrity.
   • Flexible deploymentSupport pre-termination or on-site assembly to meet complex wiring requirements.
   • long lifeDurable design reduces maintenance frequency and adapts to frequent plugging and unplugging scenarios.

III. Comparison of technical parameters

IV. Precautions for purchase

1. Confirm multimode typeOM1 (62.5 μm) is suitable for traditional devices, while OM2 (50 μm) supports higher bandwidth.
2. Armor layer materialStainless steel (corrosion resistant) or aluminum alloy (lightweight) depending on the environment.
3. certification standard: Check compliance with international standards such as ISO/IEC 11801 and TIA-568-C.3.
4. Connector compatibilityMake sure the ferrule type (ceramic/metal) matches the device interface (e.g. MPO/MTP).

V. Typical application scenarios

• Factory networkThe anti-interference connection between the PLC control system and the sensor.
• medical imagingThe equipment in the MRI room is networked to avoid electromagnetic interference affecting the signal.
• Outdoor securityLong-distance wiring between camera and switch to resist wind and rain and animal bites.

By combining the high bandwidth characteristics of multimode fiber with the physical protection of the armor layer, this product is ideal for short-distance transmission in industrial and complex environments, balancing performance and cost while enhancing system reliability.

Specifications