What are the key factors to consider when selecting a fiber optic cable?

　　The choice of fiber optic cable requires comprehensive consideration of the following key factors to ensure a balance between performance, cost, and demand:

　　1. Determine application scenarios and requirements

　　TranSMission distance:

　　Short range (≤ 500 meters): Multimode fiber (MMF) is more economical and suitable for data centers and local area networks.

　　Long-distance (≥ 500 meters): Single-mode fiber (SMF) is more suitable for applications with low attenuation, such as long-distance communication and wide area networks.

　　Bandwidth requirements:

　　1G/10G network: OM3 (50/125μm) or OS2 single-mode fiber.

　　40G/100G network: OM4/OM5 (50/125μm) or OS2 single-mode fiber.

　　Future expansion: Preference is given to higher bandwidth fibers (e.g. OM5 supports short wavelength division multiplexing).

　　2. Optical fiber type selection

　　single mode fiber (SMF):

　　OS1/OS2: Standard single mode, suitable for long distances (1310nm/1550nm wavelengths).

　　Bend-resistant fiber (G.657): suitable for complex wiring environments, reducing bending losses.

　　Multimode Fiber (MMF):

　　OM1 (62.5/125 μm): has been phased out and is only used on older systems.

　　OM2/OM3 (50/125 μm): Supports 10G (within 300 meters).

　　OM4/OM5: Supports 40G/100G, and OM5 optimizes shortwave transmission (850nm).

　　3. Attenuation and dispersion properties

　　Attenuation: Check the attenuation coefficient (dB/km) of the fiber at a specific wavelength, which must meet the standard (e.g. OS2 single mode ≤ 0.35dB/km @1550nm).

　　Dispersion:

　　Single mode: mainly limited by material dispersion, suitable for long distances.

　　Multimode: Intermodal dispersion (DMD) is key, and OM4/OM5 reduces dispersion by optimizing the refractive index distribution.

　　4. Connector and sheath types

　　Connector:

　　LC/SC: High density, suitable for data centers.

　　ST/FC: Traditional types, compatibility needs attention.

　　Sheath material:

　　PVC: Universal, but releases toxic gases when burned.

　　LSZH (Low Smoke Halogen Free): The first choice when fire safety requirements are high.

　　5. Mechanical characteristics and installation environment

　　Bending radius: Choose a fiber that supports a small bending radius (e.g. G.657) for compact installation.

　　Tensile strength: Industrial environments require the selection of reinforced optical fibers (including aramid fibers).

　　Temperature range: Under extreme temperatures, it is necessary to confirm the temperature resistance of the fiber (e.g. -40 ° C to 85 ° C).

　　6. Quality certification and branding

　　Certification standards: such as ISO/IEC 11801, TIA-568-C.3, to ensure compliance with international standards.

　　Brand reputation: Choose well-known manufacturers (such as Corning, Changfei, Prysmian) to ensure better quality.

　　7. Cost and budget

　　Single-mode fiber: high initial cost, but suitable for long distances, reducing relay equipment.

　　Multimode fiber: short-distance cost-effective, lower cost of equipment (such as optical modules).

　　Summarize the selection process

　　Clear requirements: distance, bandwidth, environment.

　　Select the fiber type: single-mode or multi-mode, specific model (e.g. OM4/OS2).

　　Verify performance parameters: attenuation, dispersion, connector compatibility.

　　Consider installation and future expansion: bend radius, sheath type, bandwidth reservation.

　　Comparing brands and prices: Balancing quality and budget.

　　By comprehensively evaluating the above factors, performance bottlenecks or waste of resources can be avoided, and the most suitable fiber optic cable can be selected.