Optical fibers are categorized into two main types based on their transmission modes: single-mode fiber (SMF) and multi-mode fiber (MMF).
● Single-mode fibers can be further divided into index profile single-mode fibers and graded-index single-mode fibers. Common types of single-mode fibers include G652, G655, and G657, which differ in terms of attenuation, dispersion, and other performance characteristics, making them suitable for various applications.
● Characteristics of Single-mode Fiber: Small Core Diameter: Typically 8.5 or 9.5 μm, allowing light signals to propagate in only one mode (the fundamental mode).
Low Transmission Loss: Due to the straight-line propagation of light signals within the core, reflection and scattering are minimized, resulting in lower transmission loss.
● Low Dispersion: Single-mode fibers have low dispersion, ensuring the stability and reliability of signals over long distances.
● High Bandwidth: Single-mode fibers generally have a large bandwidth, supporting high-speed, high-capacity data transmission.
● Single-mode fibers are suitable for long-distance communication applications, such as inter-city communication, submarine cables, and satellite communication. Within data centers, single-mode fibers are used to connect servers, storage devices, and other equipment, providing high-speed, stable data transmission channels.