The distance a signal can travel on a fiber optic cable varies significantly depending on the type of fiber, the wavelength of light used, and the data transmission rate. There isn't one single answer, as the maximum distance is dependent on these factors. However, here's a breakdown:
Factors Affecting Signal Distance in Fiber Optic Cables
-
Fiber Type: The two main types are single-mode and multi-mode fiber.
- Single-mode fiber: Designed to carry light directly down the fiber, minimizing reflections and allowing for greater distances.
- Multi-mode fiber: Has a larger core, allowing multiple light paths, which limits the distance due to modal dispersion (light pulses spreading out over distance).
-
Wavelength: Different wavelengths of light experience different levels of attenuation (signal loss) in the fiber.
-
Data Rate: Higher data rates require more bandwidth and are generally more susceptible to signal degradation over distance.
Typical Distances for Different Fiber Types
Here's a summary of typical distances for various fiber optic cables:
| Fiber Type | Data Rate (Gbps) | Typical Distance (Meters) |
|---|---|---|
| OM1 Multimode | 1 | Up to 300 |
| OM2 Multimode | 1 | Up to 550 |
| OM3 Multimode | 10 | Up to 300 |
| OM4 Multimode | 40 | Up to 550 |
| OM4 Multimode | 100 | Up to 150 |
| OS2 Single-mode | 10 | Up to 10,000+ |
| OS2 Single-mode | 40 | Up to 40,000+ |
| OS2 Single-mode | 100 | Up to 40,000+ |
Key Considerations:
-
Multimode fiber (OM1, OM2, OM3, OM4, OM5): These fibers are typically used for shorter distances, such as within a building or campus environment. OM4, for instance, can reach up to 550 meters at 40 Gbps or 150 meters at 100 Gbps.
-
Single-mode fiber (OS1, OS2): Designed for long-distance applications, such as connecting cities or countries. Distances can easily exceed several kilometers and even tens of kilometers.
Therefore, the distance a signal can travel on a fiber optic cable in meters is highly variable, ranging from hundreds of meters (for multimode) to tens of thousands of meters (for single-mode).
