Monthly Archives: April 2024

As fiber optic connectivity grows in popularity, one question we hear a lot at ShowMeCables is what the difference is between fiber patch cables and other types of fiber cables. The quick answer is that fiber patch cables are designed for relatively short-distance connections, usually less than 50 feet, within a network or between devices. They also come with connectors on both ends of the cable, for ease of installation.

Other types of fiber cable have different traits. For example, fiber optic distribution cable is designed for longer-distance transmission such as from one building to another, is often deployed outdoors, and does not include connectors.

Of course, all types of fiber cable offer the same advantages over copper cable. These include faster data transmission over longer distances, higher bandwidth, less signal loss, immunity to electromagnetic interference (EMI), and more secure lines.

Below we detail the distinctive features of fiber optic patch cables, followed by some ways you can apply them to your network. We conclude with a table showing our wide selection of these useful products.

Distinctive Features of Fiber Patch Cables

Here are some key differences between fiber optic patch cables and other types of fiber optic cables:

• Length and Use: Though single fiber optic cables come in lengths from about 18 inches to 328 feet (100 meters), fiber patch cables are typically on the short end of that spectrum, ranging from a few feet up to 50 feet. They are intended for patching (connecting) devices within a confined area, such as within a data center or between network equipment in an office building.
• Connector Types: Patch cables often come with pre-terminated connectors

If masses of cables are threatening to take over your data center, IT closet, or network rack, there are plenty of products to get them under control − in fact, there are so many cable management devices on the market, it might be hard to find the ones that would best serve you. To simplify, below we divide cable management products into the three basic functions they serve:

• Rack cable managers attach to an enclosure’s rack rails to organize and direct cables running in and out.
• Room cable managers are wire-mesh trays that carry cables through a room or from room to room, as well as wall-mount D-rings and cable claws.
• Cable protectors are rack-mount lacer bars and strips that serve as strain relief, as well as grommets that provide a smooth edge for cables passing through enclosure openings.

Following is more on these three product categories, with examples drawn from ShowMeCables’ 150+ cable management solutions.

1. Rack Cable Managers

• Single D-Rings: Rack-mount D-rings neatly gather cables and direct them away from the front of the rack so you can see the front panels of your components. The advantage of a D-ring over a zip tie or Velcro strip is that it makes it easier to find and move one cable within a bundle.
• Cable Ducts: Cable ducts mount vertically to one or both rack rails and neatly conceal cables as they direct them away from the front of the rack and up or down. Feed-through holes along the entire length of the back side of the duct lets cables enter and exit at any point.