How do I choose the right fiber optic patch cable?
5 steps to find the right fiber optic patch cable!
The right fiber optic patch cable is essential for a stable network. But how do you choose the right patch cable? What should you pay attention to? Which fiber optic patch cable is the best solution for your application?
In the next 5 steps you will read what you need to know to find the right cable.
When should I use fiber optic patch cables?
Different types of fiber optic patch cables
Quality attributes to a reliable network
Construction of a fiber patch cable
Different types of fibers and connectors used in patch cables
When should I use fiber optic patch cables?
Use fiber optic patch cables to connect active equipment. Fiber optic patch cables are typically used for patching in 19" racks. In some cases, you will also find fiber optic patch cables in cable trays to cover longer distances.
Fiber optic patch cables can also be used for permanent cabling. Permanent cabling (also called installation cabling) can be used both inside a building and outside, for example in a Fiber to the Home network.
Different types of fiber optic patch cables
See the different types of fiber optic patch cables below:
Fiber Optic Cable Types:
Duplex patch cable
Simplex patch cable
Polarity twist™ connecting cable
Short boot patch cable
Reinforced connection cable
Shielded patch cable
MTP/MPO patch cable
Connection cable IP67
Duplex Patch Cables - The most commonly used fiber optic patch cable - Receive and send data through two fibers
Duplex patch cables are the most commonly used fiber patch cables. Duplex patch cables are also known as zip cords, patch cords or jumpers, which consist of two cables connected together. With duplex patch cables, two-way communication is possible for applications such as the Internet and data communication, since duplex patch cables use one fiber for sending and the other for receiving. Uniboot (HD), short-booted, reinforced, and armored patch cables are modern variations of duplex patch cables that offer certain advantages.
Simplex Patch Cables - Send and Receive Data over a Single Fiber
Simplex patch cables consist of a cable with a connector on both sides. You can cut cable/fiber usage in half with simplex patch cables. You must use special fiber optic modules that allow two-way communication over one fiber.
These cables are often used in FTTH/telecom applications to minimize the number of fibers used. Simplex patch cables are only available in single mode.
Polarity Twist™ Patch Cables, Save Time and Space
The equipment can be connected in different ways. Sometimes it is necessary to change the polarity when installing or changing the wiring. Polarity Twist™ cables can change polarity in seconds and save 60% on wiring volume compared to regular patch cables.
This makes Polarity Twist patch™ cables the best solution for high density applications. This reduction in cable volume makes cable management easier.
Short jumper patch cables - When there is little space for the connector
Short jumper patch cables are ideal if there is limited space for the connector. For example. when the enclosure is compact or when there is little space between the panel and the door of a 19" rack. Short jacketed patch cables are similar to duplex patch cables, but differ in the jacket/ shorter length.
Reinforced patch cables - Better mechanical protection
Reinforced patch cables can be used for lengths of 10 meters or more. Standard patch cables are intended for short distances in a 19" cabinet. Reinforced patch cables have an additional sheath for better mechanical protection. They are also called Flatoval fiber cables due to the shape of the additional sheath.
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Shielded patch cables - The best mechanical protection
If your patch cables are exposed to extreme conditions, choose shielded patch cables. These are patch cables with a metallic protective layer which makes the cables even more robust and therefore better protected. These types of patch cables are often used in industrial and offshore applications.
IP67 patch cables – for outdoor use, water and dust resistant
For outdoor use, you can use patch cables with an IP67 connector to achieve water and dust resistance. These cables are often used to connect antennas in a mobile transmission tower with ground wiring to provide access to wireless applications such as Wi-Fi or mobile Internet.
MTP|MPO patch cables – excellent for high-speed connections
If you want to connect at higher speeds (40G and above), the MTP/MPO patch cable is a great choice.
Quality attributes to a reliable network
How to determine the quality of a fiber patch cable? Based on the appearance of a cable, you cannot determine the quality. How to determine the quality of a fiber patch cable? There are a number of points you need to consider when determining quality.
Ratings
The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) has established different degrees of quality. Grade A to Grade C. Grade A ensures the highest quality of fibers and connectors. We recommend Class A for professional applications where reliability is paramount.
Test report
In addition, we advise you to opt for fiber optic cables that are equipped with an individual test report. This means that every fiber in the cable has been tested for light attenuation.
This mitigation has a direct influence on the speed and reliability of your network. By opting for fiber optic patch cables with an individual test report, you are guaranteed to have a tested cable and you know the attenuation values of your network.
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Quality control in the production process
However, the type of fiber and an individual test report do not tell the whole story. The production process and its quality control are of great importance. A poorly polished connector can reduce the optical performance of your connector within a short time after installation. This is not visible in the test report as it is measured immediately after production. This can also happen with grade A parts if there are errors in the production process.
If you choose a reputable brand, the risk of errors in your network is minimal.
Litech is a well-known brand and has built a reputation over the years by delivering consistent quality. We at Litech are proud of this and will do everything we can to continue to deliver consistently high quality. With Litech cabling, you are assured of a reliable network.
Litech Pakistan is Top Manufacturer of Best Quality Optical Fiber Cables in Pakistan. And is Sole Distributor in Pakistan for Exfo (Canada) , Sumitomo Electric (Japan) ,
Wolong Batteries (China). Our professional skills in manufacturing Fiber, Voice, Structured Cabling Solutions....
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Construction of a fiber patch cable
A fiber patch cable is made up of the following:
The fiber
Primary and secondary coating: reinforces the fiber and makes it suitable for laying.
Kevlar: the fiber is protected against tensile stresses by the Kevlar/aramid around the secondary coating.
The outer sheath (also called a sheath): reinforces the construction and protects the cable against external influences.
The most important characteristic of Kevlar is that it is very strong. Kevlar is used in body armor and high-end speaker systems. Ideal for fiber protection.
Different types of fibers used in patch cables
Fiber optic patch cables are available with different fiber types.
Multimode fiber for short distances
Multimode fibers are used for short distances and have an LED or VCSEL as the light source. These fibers are limited in length and speed. Several generations of multimode fibers are available, from OM1 to OM5. Which variant you can use best depends on the application and whether you plan to extend an existing network. Find more information in the table below.
Single-mode fiber for long distances
Single-mode fibers are used for longer distances and have nearly infinite bandwidth. The light source of a single-mode fiber is a laser, which makes it more powerful and precise, but also more expensive than an LED or a VCSEL. Lately, however, the price difference has been steadily decreasing, so that single-mode is also increasingly used for short distances.