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MMF or SMF? Best Choice for Data Center Cabling?

gbic-shop.de
2020-06-01 / Transceivers

To select the right cabling plan for data center connectivity is an important decision.  According to different standards, an optic cable can be classified into different categories. The two major are singlemode (SMF) and multimode (MMF).  The comparison between these two can assist you in choosing the most suitable cable. Any wrong decision can be a hindrance for supporting future growth and results in extremely costly cable plant to move to higher speeds. Multi-Mode Fiber(MMF) has been deployed successfully in the past, due to the high cost of single mode fiber. However, the difference in the price has been largely negated with the evolution of technology. In the following article, we will do a deep comparison of these two kinds of cables on factors like cable path, distance, precision termination, cost, and color. We hope this article will be very helpful for you to make the right decision.

Single Path vs. Multiple Paths

SMF uses laser light following a single path, whereas MMF takes multiple paths, which may result in a differential mode delay. Each type can be applied for specific equipment. So, it’s important to know which application is suitable for practical use. Other maximum optimal levels can’t be achieved. 

High Bandwidth-Distance Needs

MMF has different classification types that are used to determine what optical signal rate is supported up to what distance. It is known that MMF OM1/OM2 fiber which was deployed a few years ago does not support higher transmit rates like 40GbE and 100 GbE. The resolution to this was to adding later-generation OM3 and OM4 fiber to support standard based 40GbE and 100GbE interfaces. However, multimode fiber’s physical limitations mean the distance between connections must decrease. This clearly shows that one has to deploy more fibers in parallel to support more traffic.  MMF limitations now become even more serious and operators must weigh unexpected cabling costs against a network which is not capable of supporting new services.

Thick Core Size vs. Thin Core Size

SMF has a smaller core size from 8.3 to 10 microns in diameter which is considered best for signal transmission in long distance. On the other hand, MMF is much larger than SMF with diameter from 50 to 100 microns which is more suitable for short distance transmission owing to signal distortion. SMF can carry a single light-wave along a single path, while the thick core size of MMF is able to carry different light-waves along numerous paths without modal dispersion limitation.   

Cost Criteria

MMF is typically a lower cost solution. Limited budget designers seek connectivity solutions with MMF fiber optic cables. The equipment that is used for communication over MMF is usually less expensive than SMF. But the only drawback is transmission speed and distances of MMF have limitations of 100 Mbit/s for distances up to 2km

Color Difference

MMF and SPF cables have color differences. Usually orange or aqua is used for MMF cables and usually, yellow is used for SMF cables. So it’s easy to distinguish them by appearance color.

Quick Comparison  

10GbE is predominating interconnectivity interface in large data centers. 4GbE and 100GbE have a role in some high-bandwidth applications. The most significant difference between SMF and MMF is that SMF provides higher spectral efficiency. It can support more traffic over a single fiber using more channels at higher speeds. In MMF, cabling support for higher bit rates is limited by its large core size. So the distance is limited and is unable to support higher speeds over the same distance.  

Conclusion

While operators considering their cabling options, the choice between capacity and reach is important. Both SMF and MMF have their own separate application fields. So, think twice before you are certain that the cable is the best choice for your project. For environments with an increase in users, applications and corresponding workload, SMF offers the best future proofing for performance and scalability. 

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