Single-Mode vs Multimode
Single-Mode (OS2)
- Core size: 9 microns
- Light source: Laser (1310nm, 1550nm)
- Distance: Up to 200km
- Best for: Long-distance, high-bandwidth, telecom, ISP backbone
- Color: Yellow jacket
Multimode (OM3/OM4/OM5)
- Core size: 50 microns
- Light source: LED/VCSEL (850nm)
- Distance: Up to 550m (OM4 at 10G)
- Best for: Data centers, short-reach, cost-sensitive
- Color: Aqua (OM3), Magenta (OM4), Lime (OM5)
Connector Types
| Connector | Ferrule | Best For | Insertion Loss |
|---|---|---|---|
| LC | 1.25mm | SFP/SFP+ — most common | <0.3dB |
| SC | 2.5mm | GPON, older equipment | <0.3dB |
| FC | 2.5mm | Telecom, vibration-resistant | <0.3dB |
| ST | 2.5mm | Industrial, legacy | <0.5dB |
| MPO/MTP | Multi-fiber | 40G/100G parallel optics | <0.7dB |
Polish Types
- UPC (Ultra Physical Contact): Blue connector, >50dB return loss — standard for most applications
- APC (Angled Physical Contact): Green connector, >60dB return loss — required for GPON, FTTH, analog video
- PC (Physical Contact): Gray/white, >40dB return loss — older standard, rarely used now
Never mix UPC and APC — they have different ferrule angles and won't mate properly.
Jacket Materials
- PVC: Standard, flexible, indoor use — most common
- LSZH (Low Smoke Zero Halogen): Fire-safe, low toxicity — required in buildings, tunnels, ships
- Armored: Steel or Kevlar protection — outdoor, rodent-prone areas
- Plenum: Fire-rated for air handling spaces — commercial buildings
Length Selection
Always order 10-20% longer than measured distance:
- Rack-to-rack: Measure cable path, not straight line
- Include service loops (0.5m) at each end
- Account for vertical runs in racks
BHL Networks Fiber Patch Cord Range
Single-mode (OS2) and multimode (OM3/OM4/OM5) patch cords with LC, SC, FC, and ST connectors. UPC and APC polish options. PVC and LSZH jackets. Armored options available. Lengths from 0.5m to 50m, all factory-tested with test reports included.