How to choose fiber patch cables for optical transceiver modules?

When choosing fiber patch cables for optical transceiver modules, consider the following factors:

1. Connector type: Ensure that the patch cables have the correct connector type to match the optical transceiver module. Common connector types include LC, SC, and ST.

2. Fiber type: Choose the appropriate fiber type for your application, such as single-mode or multi-mode fiber. Single-mode fiber is typically used for long-distance transmissions, while multi-mode fiber is suitable for shorter distances.

3. Cable length: Determine the required cable length based on the distance between the optical transceiver modules. It is important to choose the right length to avoid signal loss or interference.

4. Jacket type: Consider the environment in which the patch cables will be used and choose a jacket type that is suitable for that environment. Options include PVC, LSZH, and plenum-rated jackets.

5. Quality: Select high-quality patch cables from reputable manufacturers to ensure reliable and consistent performance.

6. Budget: Consider your budget constraints when choosing fiber patch cables, but prioritize quality and compatibility with your optical transceiver modules.

By considering these factors, you can choose the right fiber patch cables for your optical transceiver modules to ensure optimal performance and reliability.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Fiber Patch Cables for Optical Transceiver Modules:

1. Fiber Type:
- Multimode (MM): Supports shorter distances and higher bandwidth compared to single mode. Available in three types: OM1, OM2, and OM3/4.
- Single Mode (SM): Supports longer distances and higher bandwidth than multimode. Common types include OS1, OS2, and OM5.

2. Core Size:
- MM: 50µm or 62.5µm
- SM: 9µm or 10µm

3. Fiber Connector Type:
- LC (Lucent Connector): Compact and commonly used for high-density applications.
- SC (Subscriber Connector): Durable and widely adopted in fiber networks.
- ST (Straight Tip): Older connector type, still used in legacy systems.
- FC (Ferrule Connector): Robust and used in industrial and outdoor applications.

4. Cable Jacket:
- OFNR (Optical Fiber Non-conductive Riser): Fire-retardant and suitable for vertical riser installations.
- OFNP (Optical Fiber Non-conductive Plenum): Fire-retardant and low-smoke, designed for use in ventilation ducts and plenums.
- LSZH (Low Smoke Zero Halogen): Fire-retardant and emits minimal smoke and halogen when burned.

5. Patch Cable Length:
- Choose the shortest length possible to minimize signal loss and avoid unnecessary cable management.
- Standard lengths range from 1m to 100m, with longer cables available for custom installations.

6. Compatibility:
- Ensure the patch cables are compatible with both the optical transceiver modules and the network infrastructure.
- Check for any specific requirements or limitations related to connector type, fiber type, or cable jacket.

7. Quality and Standards:
- Choose high-quality patch cables that meet industry standards (e.g., TIA/EIA, IEEE).
- Look for cables with low insertion loss, low return loss, and high return loss sensitivity.

8. Other Considerations:
- Bend Radius: Choose patch cables with an appropriate bend radius to prevent fiber damage.
- Tensile Strength: Ensure the cables are strong enough to withstand normal handling and installation.
- Environmental Conditions: Consider the operating temperature range and exposure to chemicals or moisture if the cables will be used in harsh environments.

1. Transmission Distance & Data Rate Optical transceiver modules have many different transmission rates and transmission distances. The matching fiber cables can be choose from the reference specifications of Multiple Source Agreement (MSA) as below: Optical module type-Operating wavelength-Optical fiber type-Data rate-Transmission distance SR - 850nm - multi-mode - 10G - 300m LR - 1310nm - single mode - 10G - 10Km ER - 1550nm - single mode - 10G - 40Km ZR - 1550nm - single mode - 40G - 80Km SR4 - 850nm - multi-mode - 40G - 100m SR10 - 850nm - multimode - 100G - 100m 2. Connectors The connectors must be indispensably considered for fiber patch cable choice. Usually the interface of an optical transceiver module usually has 2 ports (1 for receiving and 1 for transmitting), namely duplex SC or duplex LC and requires duplex SC/LC fiber. Some newly introduced optical modules have only one port (which can receive and transmit optical signals), so simplex optical fibers are required. Different connectors can be plugged into different devices. MPO-MPO/LC-LC/SC-SC fiber patch cables are used for the same ports at both ends of the devices. LC-SC/LC/ST/LC-FC cables are used to connect devices with different port types. 3. Connectors type - application 56.4mm MPO/MTP - Multi-fiber transceiver, 40G QSFP+/100G QSFP+ optical module 2.5mm SC - data communication, telecommunication, GPON, EPON, X2, XENPAK optical module 2.5mm ST - data communication, FTTH, Ethernet, campus network 2.5mm FC- data communication, telecommunication, measuring equipment, single-mode laser 1.25mm LC - high-density wiring, SFP SFP+ optical module, XFP optical module 4. Analysis of specific examples For example, the transmission rate of the optical module QSFP-100G-SR4-MM850 is 100Gbps, it usually used multi-mode fiber (MMF), wavelength at 850nm, connector type is MPO, and 12-core MPO/F-MPO/F fiber. The fiber diameter 50/125um, and transmission distance is 70m. https://www.glsun.com/article-p76-choose-fiber-patch-cables-for-optical-transceiver-modules.html