Fiber OpticAs 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.

 

Key Takeaways

 

  • fiber optic patch cables provide pre-terminated connections between optical networking components.
  • Single-mode and multimode are the two major fiber categories.
  • OM1, OM2, OM3, OM4 and OM5 are common multimode fiber classifications.
  • LC, SC, and ST are commonly encountered fiber connector types.
  • Simplex cables contain one fiber, while duplex cables contain two.
  • Always match the fiber type and connector to the equipment.
  • Verify APC vs. UPC requirements before connecting single-mode components.
  • Cable length, bend radius, and installation environment should be considered.
  • Keep fiber connectors clean and protected from dust.
  • Proper polarity and labelling can simplify installation and troubleshooting.
  • fiber patch cables are particularly useful for data centers, telecommunications, network racks, and fiber patch panels.

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 on both ends for easy plug-and-play installation. Common connector types include LC, SC, ST, and MTP/MPO. Other types of fiber optic cables may come with connectors or pigtails on one end and require termination or splicing on the other end to plug in to network equipment.
  • Fiber Types: Patch cables are available in both single-mode and multimode fiber types, depending on the requirements of the network. Single-mode patch cables are used for long-distance transmissions with higher bandwidth and lower signal attenuation, while multimode patch cables are suitable for shorter distances with lower bandwidth requirements.
  • Jacketing and Durability: Fiber optic patch cables typically have a general-purpose outer jacket for protection against moisture, abrasion, and bending, and they can withstand the rigors of frequent handling and installation. Other types of fiber cables may have jacketing for specific applications, such as outdoor installations or harsh industrial environments.
  • Application Specificity: Patch cables are designed for general-purpose connectivity within a network infrastructure, providing flexible and interchangeable connections between network devices. Other types of fiber optic cables may be optimized for specific applications, such as submarine cables for undersea telecommunications, aerial cables for overhead installations, or armored cables for outdoor use.

 

Benefits of fiber Optic Patch Cables

 

1. High-Bandwidth Connectivity

fiber optic patch cables can support high-speed data transmission and are widely used in networking and data center environments.

2. Low Signal Loss

Properly selected fiber assemblies can provide low insertion loss, helping maintain signal quality across the connection.

3. Electromagnetic Interference Resistance

Because fiber transmits information using light rather than electrical current, fiber-optic connections are not susceptible to electromagnetic interference in the same way as copper cabling.

4. Compact Design

Many fiber patch cables use relatively small cable and connector formats, making them useful in high-density network environments.

5. Multiple Connector Options

fiber patch cables are available with connector types such as LC, SC, and ST, as well as other configurations for specialized applications.

6. Simple Installation

Pre-terminated patch cables can be installed without field-terminating the fiber, which can simplify equipment connections and patch-panel installations.

7. Suitable for Data centers

fiber patch cables are widely used for connections between switches, patch panels, transceivers, and other network infrastructure.

 

Key Applications for Fiber Patch Cables

 

Fiber patch cables, especially those around 50 feet (15 meters) long or less, find numerous applications across various industries. Specific applications include:

  • Data Centers: Fiber optic patch cables are extensively used in data centers for connecting servers, switches, routers, and other networking equipment. Their high bandwidth and low latency make them ideal for high-speed data transmission in that environment.
  • Telecommunications: Telecom networks utilize fiber optic patch cables for transmitting voice, video, and data signals. In shorter distances within telecom facilities or between buildings, these cables are used for interconnecting equipment.
  • Local Area Networks (LANs): Fiber optic patch cables are increasingly being used in LAN environments, especially in situations where high bandwidth and reliability are crucial. They connect network switches, routers, and other devices within office buildings or campuses.
  • Industrial Automation: Fiber optic patch cables are used in industrial automation systems for transmitting data between various sensors, controllers, and machinery. They offer high reliability and resistance to EMI, making them suitable for harsh industrial environments.
  • Broadcasting and Audiovisual Systems: In broadcasting studios, theaters, and other AV environments, fiber optic patch cables transmit high-definition video, audio, and control signals between different equipment such as cameras, monitors, and video switchers.
  • Military and Aerospace Applications: Fiber optic patch cables are used in military and aerospace applications where high-speed, secure, and reliable data transmission is critical. They are employed in communication systems, surveillance equipment, and avionics.
  • Healthcare and Medical Imaging: In healthcare facilities, fiber optic patch cables are used in medical imaging equipment such as MRI machines, CT scanners, and ultrasound devices for transmitting high-resolution images and data quickly and reliably.
  • Education and Research Institutions: Fiber optic patch cables are used in educational and research institutions for connecting networking equipment, laboratory instruments, and high-performance computing clusters.

 

Fiber Patch Cables from ShowMeCables

 

Patch Cable Type

Main Traits

Typical Uses

Single-Mode Fiber Optic Patch Cables

 

A single light mode travels through the core, allowing for lower light dispersion and thus higher bandwidths over longer distances.

Long-distance, high-speed communication, including telecom networks, internet backbone, data centers, and enterprise networks.

Multimode OM1 Patch Cables

Larger core size than single mode, allowing multiple modes of light to travel through the core simultaneously.

Short-distance communication, such as interconnecting network equipment such as switches, routers, and servers within the same rack.

Multimode OM2 Patch Cables

Similar to OM1 but offers higher bandwidth, typically around 500 MHz at a wavelength of 850 nm.

Premises applications – networking and communication systems within a specific location or building.

10 GB Multimode OM3 Patch Cables

 

Optimized for 10 GB high-speed data transmission over a shorter distance. Bandwidth is typically around 2000 MHz at 850 nm.

Data center backbone, server-to-switch connections, storage area networks (SANs), enterprise networks, high-performance computing (HPC).

40/100 GB Multimode OM4 Patch Cables

Supports higher data rates over longer distances (short to moderate) than OM3. Bandwidth is typically around 4700 MHz at 850 nm.

Same as OM3, plus video streaming and broadcasting, and emerging technologies.

Multimode OM5 Patch Cables

Use with shortwave wavelength division multiplexing (SWDM). The bandwidth depends on the SWDM technology employed.

Same as OM4, plus multimode parallel optics, future-proofing networks, and data centers with high-speed connectivity needs.

Active Optical/Direct Attach Patch Cables

Contains active components like lasers or LEDs for signal amplification.

Countless applications where the signal needs boosting, often for longer-distance transmission.

Armored Fiber Patch Cables

Reinforced with a protective layer for increased durability.

Wherever cables may be exposed to physical damage or external stress, such as in factories and outdoors.

MPO/MPO Patch Cables

Has multifiber push-on (MPO) connectors on both ends, allowing for fast and efficient connection of multiple fibers.

High-density environments like data centers, where quick and reliable connections and efficient use of space are essential.

MTP/MPO Patch Cables

Push-on connectors allow for fast connection of multiple fibers simultaneously. MTP end has improved performance.

High-density and high-performance applications such as data centers and telecom, where high data speeds and low insertion loss are crucial.

MTP/MPO Breakouts

MTP/MPO connector on one end breaks out into multiple connectors on the other end.

Connecting high-density backbone cabling to individual devices or ports.

Polarized-Maintaining Patch Cables

 

Maintains the polarization state of light as it travels through the fiber, for less crosstalk, more signal stability.

Fiber lasers, fiber amps, fiber optic guidance/inertial components, metrology and interferometric sensors, test and measurement.

 

ShowMeCables’ fiber patch cables are in stock and available with same-day shipping. In-stock products ordered before 5 p.m. ET ship the same day, and if you have any questions about our fiber patch cables, contact our U.S.-based customer service at +1 (888) 519-9505, email us, or chat.

 

FAQs – Frequently asked questions

 

What is a fiber optic patch cable?

A fiber optic patch cable is a pre-terminated fiber cable used to connect optical networking equipment, patch panels, switches, transceivers, and other fiber components.

What is the difference between a fiber patch cable and a fiber optic cable?

A fiber patch cable is generally a finished cable assembly with connectors, while "fiber optic cable” is a broader term that can include bulk and permanently installed fiber cable.

What are the types of fiber optic patch cables?

Common types include single-mode, multimode, simplex, duplex, LC, SC, ST, APC, and UPC configurations.