Things to Consider When Choosing Fiber Optic Patch Cords

Introduction: Importance of Selection

Today’s world is more than ever about data transmission. Fiber optic technology is a mainstay of modern communication systems because of unmatched speed and bandwidth capabilities. The fiber optic patch cord, an important component of high performance networks, is at the heart of this technology.

Choosing the right fiber optic patch cord is very important to get your maximum network performance and avoid any downtime to keep it long term cost effective. The market has so many choices, that it is difficult to choose right. In this blog we are going to go over the top 5 things you should think about when you are deciding on a fiber optic patch cord.

1.Fiber Type

The most important part is the first part — what type of fiber do you need. Fiber optic cables come in two primary types: single-mode and multimode. Each type has distinct characteristics and is suited for specific applications:

• Single-Mode Fiber:
  Long distance transmission is carried in single mode fibers, which have a smaller core diameter (typically 9 microns) and light can only travel in one path. They are suitable for use in telecommunications, Internet service providers and in applications requiring high speed data transmission over long distances.




• Multimode Fiber:
  Fibers with a core diameter of 50 or 62.5 microns are called multimode fibers, which are good for short distances. They support multiple light modes and are used in local area networks (LAN) data centers and intra building connections because of that.

The wrong fiber type can cause compatibility problems, signal loss and inefficiencies in your network. Before you can do anything, you need to know what your application requirements are.

2.Connector Type

Since fiber optic patch cords are terminated on both ends of the patch cord, the connectors on the fiber optic patch cords must be of the same type. Common connector types include:

• LC (Lucent Connector):
  Small size and high density capabilities have made LC connectors popular in data centers and high density networks.




• SC (Subscriber Connector):
  Push pull design connectors known as SC connectors are used in telecommunications and cable TV networks, due to their high durability and reliability.




• ST (Straight Tip):
  Industrial networks use ST connectors with a bayonet style coupling mechanism to ensure secure connection.




• MTP/MPO:
  These are multi fiber data center connections with high density connectors.

When you choose a patch cord, choose a connector type identical to the ports on your networking equipment. Also note the ease of handling and maintenance requirements of the connectors for long term reliability.

3.Cable Length

Correct cable length is critical to performance and cost efficiency. Patch cords that are too long cause unnecessary clutter, more attenuation, and signal loss. However, cords that are too short cannot be long enough to extend to those destination endpoints; this leads to operational problems as well as physical damage from stretching.

To choose the appropriate cable length:

• Learn the routing distance between the connection points and whether the snaking or routing path is followed.




• Think about how the system will scale into the future and how equipment can be moved.




• Cables with slack flow go a long way to keeping things clean.

With careful planning of the cable length a clean, efficient, effective and low cost and low maintenance effort network installation will result.

4.Durability and Material

The material used to build the fiber optic patch cords will determine the durability of the patch cords. Patch cords are designed to deliver high quality components that survive environmental and mechanical stress and that will perform reliably over time. Key considerations include:

• Jacket Material:
  The internal fibers are protected from physical damage by an outer jacket. The most common materials used in jackets range from PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) through to LSZH (Low Smoke Zero Halogen) or even armoured versions for even more harsh environments.




• Bend Radius:
  They are more flexible, supporting small bend radii without sacrificing performance so they don’t need tight spaces.




• Environmental Resistance:
  For uses north, east, or outdoors, choose the UV resistant, waterproof, temperature tolerant, etc. patch cords.

For example, investing in durable materials to be used in the patch cords during the creation of the patch cords not only increases patch cords lifespan but it also decreases the probability of network disruption due to damaged cable.

5.Compliance and Certification

Your fiber optic patch cords should be industry standard and safe to use as well as it should perform to the optimum level. Once the product is certified, it goes through rigorous testing and the adherence and following of defined quality benchmarks to ensure such critical applications can have their confidence. Key certifications to look for include:

• RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances):
  Makes sure the product is hazard free.




• ISO/IEC Standards:
  Having a guarantee for compatibility and performance in different networking environments.




• Telcordia GR-326:
  Sets forth reliability and durability requirements for fiber optic connectors.

By choosing certified patch cords, you can trust that your network will meet regulatory requirements and rest assured it is built on a strong, reliable foundation.

Conclusion

Choosing the right fiber optic patch cord is not a technical decision – it’s an investment into the efficiency, the reliability, and the scalability of your network. What you need to be certain you are getting the right product for the job is fiber type, connector type, cable length, durability and compliance.

Empirical Testing Solutions is one of the leading providers of quality assurance in fiber optic systems in the UAE and is making valuable contributions to the UAE businesses that are fighting the modern networking problems. Once you have the right components prioritized, you’re harnessing all the potential in your network to communicate effectively in a world that’s becoming more and more connected.