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2.3.1. Fiber Optic Cables
Fiber uses light to transmit data, offering immunity to EMI and far longer distances than copper's 100 m limit: multimode for building and data-centre runs of a few hundred metres, single-mode for kilometre-scale links.
| Type | Core Size | Light Source | Max Distance | Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single-mode (SMF) | 9 µm | Laser | 10+ km | Long-haul, campus backbone |
| Multimode (MMF) | 50/62.5 µm | LED | 500m-2km | Building backbone, data center |
Connector Types:
- LC: Small form factor, most common for network equipment
- SC: Square connector, older equipment
- ST: Bayonet-style, older installations
- MPO/MTP: Multi-fiber (8, 12, or 24 fibers), high-density
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Written byAlvin Varughese
Founder•20 professional certifications