Important questions to ask before selecting fiber optic cable

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With the fantastic capabilities yet a wide variety of fiber optic cables, it may be challenging to select the right type of cable for your project. As a fiber optic products supplier, we at Nassau National Cable know what to take into account when choosing an optic fiber cable. Here are the important factors to consider before you make an order.

Network distance

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a fiber optic cable is the distance of your network. Fiber optic line allows for data travel at high speed and long distances with minimum data loss. In particular, this wiring loses as little as 3% of data per 100 meters, which is significantly less than CAT6 wires, for example.

Also, depending on whether your distances are shorter or longer, you want to consider various fiber optic cable types, particularly singlemode or multimode cables. Let's discuss the difference between these next.

Singlemode vs. Multimode

So the distance of your network determines which type of optic cable you need. Singlemode means that there is one pulse of light while multimode means that there are numerous light pulses.

• A

  singlemode cable

  has a smaller core and is more suitable for longer distances, such as more than 300 meters. These are usually fiber optic HDMI cables used for cable TV and telecommunications.

• A

  multimode wire

  has a bigger core and is best for larger volumes of data and shorter-distance networks.

An example of singlemode fiber optics cable is the Tight Buffered Cable, while the Loose Tube Cable is a multimode wire.

Cable size

Fiber optic cables, overall, have become quite thin and therefore, convenient to install and manage. While there are thicker and thinner wires due to the size of their core, this type of wiring is still thinner than the existing alternatives made of other materials. 

So when planning your project and considering the use of different cables, keep in mind that a fiber optic wire will take up less space while providing excellent capabilities.

Connectors

Fiber optic connectors are another area of consideration for your project. The type of connectors you need will depend on your network, particularly the ports in your equipment. For instance, if there is a multifiber port in your network, you will have to select a fiber optic HDMI cable with a particular number of fibers.

Installation site

Wirenet Product Page

The environment conditions of the place where you are going to install your fiber optic cabling need to be taken into account when choosing the wiring. Because external factors can damage the wire or affect its performance and durability, make sure to check out different jacket options for the fiber optic wire.

For example, the jacket made of PVC, like in the Commscope Cable, can withstand lower temperatures than Tefzel' jacketed cabling. Or the flame-retardant jacket of the Ribbon Cable makes it perfect for indoor and riser sites, but it is not a good choice for fiber cable outdoor installation.

Cost

With all the things discussed above, it is natural that the cost of every fiber optic wiring will differ. But at this point, you might have already narrowed down your choice to a certain type of fiber optic HDMI or other kinds of wire. Now it is time when the cost factor can play a role ' compare your options and check out whether one offers a better cost-to-performance ratio than the other. 

However, we don't recommend neglecting the cable's capabilities for the sake of cutting the project cost because this will end up being a less cost-effective option in the long run.

Where to buy fiber optic cables?

Now that you have answers to the most important questions on fiber optic products, check out our fiberoptic cable collection to find the one that fits your project needs best. If you need to address any other questions regarding which wire to choose, contact us and we will help you make the right choice.

What are Custom Cables and when should I use them?

A custom cable is a cable designed specifically for your needs and specifications. Ordering a custom made cable is a good choice when existing products are unable to meet the needs of your application or when an altered product could better meet the requirements of your application.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of using Custom Cable instead of standard products?

The biggest advantage of using custom cables is that all aspects of the cable's design are catered to the needs of your particular application and compliance requirements. Ordering cables custom may even save money since it eliminates the need to pay for unnecessary extras.

The main disadvantage of using a custom cable is that it takes more time and planning when placing an order. You must leave time for the product to be manufactured, whereas a stock item could be shipped right away.

Do all Custom Cables need to be designed from scratch?

Custom cables can be made completely from scratch, but they do not have to be. You can alter an existing product so that it better fits the needs of your application.

What choices do I get to make during the Custom Cable design and manufacturing process?

When you work with our cable design experts, you have the opportunity to choose everything from the materials of the cable to the color of the jacket. We will help you determine which conductor material, stranding, and lay is right for your application. We will also tailor your special cable custom design to meet requirements for flexibility, environmental resistances, and performance parameters.

If you need your cable to meet industry standards, Allied Wire and Cable will accommodate that, too. We design custom cables to meet UL, CSA, CE, and even Mil-Spec standards.

Do you provide any other services for cable customization?

Allied Wire and Cable provides a wide range of value-added services for cables that are either custom made or bought from stock. These customization services include dyeing to custom colors, striping, cut and strip, twisting, paralleling, and more. With these services, you can easily customize your cable to meet all of your branding, identification, and installation needs.

Is it difficult to design Custom Cables?

With Allied Wire and Cable's custom cable design experts, the process is simple. We have representatives standing by to walk you through everything step-by-step.

Do I have to buy a lot of products to be able to order a custom cable?

Depending on the cable, we offer order minimums ranging from 500ft to ft. Allied Wire and Cable also offers prototype runs for custom cables with short minimum length requirements.

What lead time can I expect when I order Custom Cable?

Typically, you can expect a turn-around of 2 to 4 weeks to allow time for cable manufacturing. Times vary based on the complexity of the custom made cable.

How do I begin the Custom Cable design process?

Fill out a design sheet in our Custom Cable Design Center and submit your request. Once you submit the form online, one of our knowledgeable sales representatives will call you within 24 hours (during the business week) to discuss your special cable manufacturing needs, answer any questions you may have about getting cable custom made, and help you place an order.

The company is the world’s best Custom Fiber optic cable drums Exporter supplier. We are your one-stop shop for all needs. Our staff are highly-specialized and will help you find the product you need.