Multimode vs Single Mode Fiber Patch Cords: Which One to Use?

■ Multimode vs Single Mode Patch Cords: Comparison of Them 

Fiber optic patch cabling is part of a fiber optic network construction, so the important choice is whether to use multimode patch cords or single mode patch cords. These patch cords aim to achieve the same goal of transmitting optical signals by the means of the construction, performance, and costs differences. They have their pros, though, as well as certain drawbacks, which in turn can deeply affect the network performance.

This guide has been created to provide you with a clear idea on how to differentiate between the type of fiber patch cords for your system, the types of applications, and how to select the right one.

■ What Are Multimode and Single Mode Patch Cords? 

The abbreviation LB and single mode patch cords is fiber patch cords (also known as fiber jumpers), which consist of axially terminating cables to interconnect transducers, patch panels, or other optical devices. 

Single Mode Patch Cord 

A single mode fiber is 8.3/µm wide for the core (125 µm for the cladding) – this is a thin fiber that uses laser sources of light. It is meant to be used in long-distance signaling and allowing high-level data transmission. Such cables are made for systems requiring high-speed operations, including telecom backbones and data centers. 

Common variants include: 

• LC-LC Patch cords (LC-LC single mode) are usually used for connections. 

• SC-LC patch cords (SC-LC single mode) for connections of SC transceivers to LC equipment. 

• SC to SC single mode patch cords (the traditional or standardized setup)

Multimode Patch Cord 

A multimode cord has a bigger core diameter than that of the single mode cord (50/125 µm to 62.5/125 µm), meaning more (modes) possible light paths can move through the fiber. They are applied for sytem with short distances and high speed and the price is cheaper than single mode fiers. 

Popular multimode options include: 

• Duplex OM3 patch cables, which are suitable for 10G/40G up to 300m. 

• OM3/OM4 aqua multimode fiber cables, which are known for their distinctive jacket color. 

• OM1 62.5/125 multimode patch cords, which are still used in old-style systems.

■ Key Differences Between Multimode and Single Mode Patch Cords

■ Connector Types and Options 

Independently of whether it is dual or single mode patch cords, each type can be terminated with various types of connectors: 

• LC – This is a small and compact differential made for high-density applications, therefore is used for LC-LC single mode connections. 

• SC – This style is used more often than others, and it is push-pull type (for SC-LC single mode connections, SC-SC single mode, etc.). 

• ST – This type with a bayonet style is less frequent, but still in use. 

• FC – This is the type of screw-on connector to use in environments with constant vibration. 

Tip: Verify the compatibility of connectors with the transceivers and patch panels you use.

■ Typical Applications 

✅ Single Mode Patch Cord Applications 

• Long-distance data center interlinks 

• FTTH and FTTx networks 

• Major and national spine networks 

• Long-distance 10, 40, and 100 G connections 

Typical products: 

• LC-LC single mode patch cords, LC-LC cables preferable for high-density environments. 

• SC-LC single mode for mixed-port or MTP systems. 

• SC-LC single mode in telecom legacy systems.

✅ Multimode Patch Cord Applications 

• Enterprise LANs and data center floors 

• Building backbone cabling 

• 10 gigabit short links (up to 300m with duplex OM3) 

• Applications in AV and industrial tools 

Used products: 

• Aqua multimode fiber cables for OM3 to OM4 high-speed interconnections. 

• Duplex OM3 patch cords for SFP+ 10G connects. 

• 62.5/125 fiber patch cords for OM1 legacy switches.

■ FAQ: Multimode vs. Singlemode Patch Cords 

Q: Is it alright to utilize patch cords of the single mode and the multimode interchangeably? 

A: No, as they have variants of core sizes and modal behavior, this will highly decrease the quality of the signal.

Q: What are the differences between 8.3/125 and 62.5/125 fibres? 

A: The designation for 8.3/125 fiber describes a single mode fiber offered with a smaller core size that has one light path that can transport light over considerable distances with increased speeds. Multimode fiber 62.5/125 includes wires where light can travel in multiple paths and only for short distances.

Q: Which type is better for 10G Ethernet? 

A: For less than 300m, select duplex OM3 multimode, and for more than 10km, a single mode patch cord solution.

■ Conclusion: Which Patch Cord Should You Use? 

Port reduction can be done by selecting the single mode patch cords, for example, LC-LC single mode or series SC-LC single mode, which will be more cost-effective and capable of supporting high bandwidth and future-proof fiber data links.

 Alternatively, you can use the multimode patch cords (for example, duplex OM3, aqua multimode) for the short-range setups with which the costs are reduced.

Last, but not least, the system specs, transceiver type, and total distance of the transmission are the key factors together with others to make the right decision.

James is a technical manager and associate at Zion Communication. 

Specializes in Optical Fiber communications,  FTTH Solutions, 

Fiber optic cables,  ADSS cable, and ODN networks.

james@zion-communication.com

+86 13777460328