When setting up a high-performance network, selecting the correct fibre optic cable is just as crucial as choosing the right transceiver. Using the wrong cable type can lead to performance bottlenecks, signal loss, or outright incompatibility. This guide will help you choose the ideal fibre cable for your transceiver, ensuring seamless connectivity and maximum efficiency.
Understanding Fibre Cable Types
Fibre optic cables fall into two main categories: Multimode (OMx) and Singlemode (OSx). The right choice depends on your transceiver’s specifications and the required transmission distance.
OM4 LC to LC Multimode Fibre Optic Cable
- Best for: Short-range high-speed connections up to 150m at 40G/100G or 550m at 10G
- Compatible transceivers: 1000BASE-SX, 10GBASE-SR, 25GBASE-SR, 40GBASE-SR4, 100GBASE-SR4
- Backward compatibility: OM4 fibre cables are fully backward compatible with OM3, OM2, and OM1 networks. This means they can be used in any setup where OM3 cables were previously deployed, offering an easy upgrade path for higher performance.
- Recommended use: Data centres, enterprise networks, and high-speed LAN environments
- Our Brand: We offer high-quality Blue Cable Co® OM4 LC to LC fibre cables, ensuring reliable performance and durability.
OS1 LC to LC Singlemode Fibre Optic Cable
- Best for: Long-distance transmission (up to 10km with OS1, 40km+ with OS2)
- Compatible transceivers: 1000BASE-LX, 10GBASE-LR, 40GBASE-LR4, 100GBASE-LR4
- Recommended use: WAN links, telecom applications, and long-haul networks
- Our Brand: We offer high-quality Blue Cable Co® OS1 LC to LC fibre cables, ensuring reliable performance and durability.
OM4 MPO to MPO Multimode Fibre Optic Cable
- Best for: High-density backbone cabling supporting 40G and 100G Ethernet
- Compatible transceivers: 40GBASE-SR4, 100GBASE-SR4, QSFP+ transceivers
- Recommended use: Data centre interconnects, high-bandwidth applications, structured cabling
- Our Brand: We offer high-quality Blue Cable Co® OM4 MPO to MPO fibre cables, ensuring reliable performance and durability.
OM4 MPO to 4 x LC Multimode Fibre Optic Breakout Cable
- Best for: Splitting high-speed signals into multiple channels
- Compatible transceivers: QSFP+ to SFP+ breakout applications (40G to 4x10G), QSFP28 to SFP28 (100G to 4x25G)
- Recommended use: Data centre rack connections, migration from 10G to 40G or 100G, network scalability
- Our Brand: We offer high-quality Blue Cable Co® OM4 MPO to 4 x LC breakout fibre cables, ensuring reliable performance and durability.
How to Choose the Right Fibre Cable
- Check Your Transceiver Type: Match the transceiver specifications with the cable type. Multimode (OM4) works well for short distances, while Singlemode (OS1) is ideal for long-haul networks.
- Consider Distance Requirements: If your connection is under 150m, OM4 is a cost-effective option. If exceeding 500m, opt for OS1/OS2.
- Verify Connector Compatibility: Ensure your transceivers support LC or MPO connections as required.
- Plan for Future Scalability: If you foresee upgrading to 40G or 100G, MPO cables offer a scalable solution.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right fibre optic cable ensures high-performance network connectivity with minimal signal loss and optimal data transmission. At XS Connect, we provide high-quality Blue Cable Co® fibre cables tailored to your networking needs. Browse our range today and future-proof your network!
For any further queries, feel free to contact our team of networking experts.
