Understanding the OM Series: A Comprehensive Guide
When it comes to optical fibers, there are two primary types: single-mode and multi-mode. In this article, we’ll delve into the latter, focusing on the OM series, which stands for “optical mode,” a standard used to denote the grade of multi-mode fibers. Let’s explore the five main specifications: OM1, OM2, OM3, OM4, and OM5.
OM1: The Entry-Level Fiber
OM1 fibers are designed for bandwidths of 200/500 MHz.km at 850/1300nm wavelengths. They come in 50um or 62.5um core diameters. These fibers are typically used for short-distance applications, such as in buildings or data centers, where the bandwidth requirements are not as high.
OM2: A Step Up in Performance
OM2 fibers offer a higher bandwidth of 500/500 MHz.km at 850/1300nm wavelengths. Like OM1, they are available in 50um or 62.5um core diameters. OM2 fibers are suitable for applications that require a bit more bandwidth than OM1, such as in data centers or for shorter distances in buildings.
OM3: Optimized for 10Gb/s Networks
OM3 fibers are specifically designed for 10Gb/s networks using 850nm vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSELs). They have a 50um core diameter and offer a bandwidth of 500/500 MHz.km at 850/1300nm wavelengths. OM3 fibers are ideal for data centers and other high-performance applications.
OM4: The Upgrade to OM3
OM4 fibers are an upgrade to OM3, offering a longer transmission distance of up to 550m. They also have a 50um core diameter and a bandwidth of 500/500 MHz.km at 850/1300nm wavelengths. OM4 fibers are suitable for high-performance applications that require longer transmission distances.
OM5: The Newcomer in the Series
OM5 is a relatively new addition to the OM series, designed for high-speed data transmission. It offers a bandwidth of 10,000/10,000 MHz.km at 850/1300nm wavelengths and is compatible with both LED and laser light sources. OM5 fibers are ideal for high-performance applications, such as in data centers or for long-distance transmission.
Table: Comparison of OM Series Specifications
| OM Series | Core Diameter | Bandwidth (850/1300nm) | Max Distance | Optical Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OM1 | 50um/62.5um | 200/500 MHz.km | Short Distance | LED |
| OM2 | 50um/62.5um | 500/500 MHz.km | Short Distance | LED |
| OM3 | 50um | 500/500 MHz.km | Short Distance | Laser |
| OM4 | 50um | 500/500 MHz.km | 550m | Laser |
| OM5 | 50um | 10,000/10,000 MHz.km | Long Distance | LED/Laser |
Understanding the differences between the various OM series specifications is crucial when selecting the right fiber for your application. By considering factors such as bandwidth, distance, and optical source compatibility, you can ensure that your network performs optimally.
