Multi-mode OM1 fibre optic cable has 62.5/125µm cores and is generally used for backbone applications due to high capacity and reliability. Loose tube versions are ideal for external use and commonly available with SWA or CST mechanical protection. Tight buffered versions are designed for runs around multiple bends and not usually armoured.
Multi-mode fibres have larger core diameters than single-mode so the light is reflected in a zigzag pattern down the core, resulting in higher attenuation rates (losses) than single-mode.
The difference between multi-mode OM1, OM2, OM3 and OM4 cables is the optical fibre performance, please see our Fibre Optic Cable Selection Guide for more information.
| Construction – Multi-mode OM1 fibre |
|---|
| 62.5/125µm fibres with coloured coating |
| fibres are either contained in a loose tube (LT) or tight buffered (TB) |
| optional steel wire armour (SWA) or corrugated steel tape armour (CST) |
| generally with low smoke zero halogen (LSZH) sheathing |
| Technical – Multi-mode OM1 fibre | |
|---|---|
| fibre diameter: | core 62.5µm (micrometres), cladding 125µm |
| number of fibres: | 4, 6, 8, 12, 16 or 24 core versions commonly available |
| loose tube (LT): | fibres are enclosed within protective tube(s), usually with a water resistant gel |
| tight buffered (TB): | fibres have an additional tough waterproof layer over the normal coating |
A printable PDF specification is available here: Multi-mode OM1 fibre optic cable (62.5/125).
For alternative fibre types return to the Fibre Optic Cables front page,
where our “Fibre Selection Guide” is also available.
Note: low smoke zero halogen / halogen free (LSZH, LSOH, LSHF, OHLS) should not be confused with LSF (low smoke and fume), an in-depth explanation is shown on our LSZH Control Flex front page.
