3.1.5 Fiber Optic Cable Facts

Fiber-optic cable

An optical-fiber cable composed of a central core, cladding, protective layer, and plastic sheath.

Central core

The part of a fiber-optic cable that carries the signal, made of plastic or glass.

Cladding

The component that maintains the signal in the center of the core as the cable bends.

Protective layer

The layer providing a stiff structure to prevent the cladding and core from breaking.

Plastic sheath

The outer layer that encases everything and protects the cable.

Advantages of fiber-optic cable

Includes immunity to EMI, resistance to eavesdropping, faster transmission rates, and greater cable distances without a repeater.

Disadvantages of fiber-optic cable

Includes high cost, difficulty in handling, and the requirement of special training for attaching connectors.

Single-mode fiber-optic cable

Transfers data using a single light ray, has a core diameter of around 10 microns, supports large data volumes, and permits long distances.

Multi-mode fiber-optic cable

Transfers data using multiple light rays, has a core diameter of around 50 to 100 microns, and limits cable length distances.

ST Connector

A keyed, bayonet-type connector used with both single-mode and multi-mode cabling, requires polishing of the exposed fiber tip.

SC Connector

A push on, pull off connector using a locking tab, suited for single-mode and multi-mode cabling and requires polishing of the fiber tip.

LC Connector

A smaller plastic connector with a locking tab, used with single-mode and multi-mode cabling, also requires polishing of the fiber tip.

MT-RJ Connector

A plastic connector with a locking tab that holds both cables, used for single-mode and multi-mode cabling, and requires polishing of the fiber tip.