There are two basic types of optical fibers single mode and multimode.
Single mode and multimode fiber difference.
When comparing how singlemode and multimode fiber are manufactured there s one big differentiator.
This is because it is the optics that dominates the total cost of a network system.
The main difference between single mode and multimode optical fiber is the size of the core.
The core of a multi mode cable is usually 50 125 or 62 5 125 microns in size.
Because of this the number of light reflections created as the light passes through the core decreases lowering attenuation and creating the ability for the signal to travel further.
It uses an led as its light source and allows for multiple modes or light paths to travel through the fiber cable at any given time.
Single mode fiber optic cable has a small diametral core that allows only one mode of light to propagate.
Single mode fiber cable systems are usually more expensive even though the actual cost of single mode fiber cable is cheaper than that of multimode fiber cable in the market.
Singlemode fiber s core size is smaller and carries light directly down the fiber it only allows the fundamental mode of light to transmit down the fiber.
Because multimode fiber is thicker it can accommodate more signals for.
Single mode fiber has a core that measures around 5um while the multimode fiber core measures 50um or more.
Single mode fiber optic cable.
Multimode has a much larger diameter than single mode fiber cables usually between 50µm and 62 5µm.