You can primarily identify multimode fiber cable by the color of its outer jacket. Orange is the most common jacket color for multimode fiber optic cables. However, other colors are also used.
Here's a more detailed breakdown of how to identify multimode fiber:
Jacket Color
The jacket color is often the quickest and easiest way to identify fiber optic cable types:
- Orange: This is the most common color for OM1 and OM2 multimode fiber.
- Aqua: This color typically indicates OM3 and OM4 multimode fiber, which offer higher bandwidth and performance.
- Violet (Erika Violet): This color is sometimes used for OM4 fiber.
- Lime Green: Used to identify OM5 fiber, also known as wideband multimode fiber (WBMMF).
Important Note: While jacket color is a good indicator, it's not foolproof. Always confirm the fiber type by reading the cable printing.
Cable Printing
The cable jacket usually has printed information that specifies the fiber type:
- Look for designations like "OM1," "OM2," "OM3," "OM4," or "OM5." These codes clearly indicate the type of multimode fiber.
- The printing may also include the fiber size (e.g., 50/125 µm or 62.5/125 µm) and other specifications.
Connector Color
While less reliable than jacket color or printing, connector color can sometimes provide a clue. However, this is not a standardized practice.
Key Differences Between Multimode and Single-Mode Fiber
To accurately identify multimode fiber, it's helpful to understand the key differences between it and single-mode fiber:
| Feature | Multimode Fiber | Single-Mode Fiber |
|---|---|---|
| Core Size | Larger (50 or 62.5 µm) | Smaller (around 9 µm) |
| Jacket Color | Orange, Aqua, Violet, Lime Green | Yellow |
| Light Source | LEDs or VCSELs | Lasers |
| Distance | Shorter (up to a few kilometers) | Longer (tens to hundreds of km) |
| Bandwidth | Lower to Medium | Very High |
| Applications | Short-distance data centers, LANs | Long-distance telecommunications |
In Summary
The primary ways to identify multimode fiber cable are:
- Jacket Color: Look for orange, aqua, violet, or lime green jackets.
- Cable Printing: Check for "OM1," "OM2," "OM3," "OM4," or "OM5" printed on the cable jacket.
Always verify the fiber type with the cable printing for accurate identification.
