Multimode Optical Cable Specifications and Models Comparison Table

Multimode optical cables are classified into OM1, OM2, OM3, OM4, and OM5, each differing in core size, bandwidth, transmission distance, optical source, and typical applications.Overview of Multimode Fiber TypesMultimode fiber (MMF) allows multiple light modes to propagate simultaneously, making it suitable for short- to medium-range communication, such as within buildings or campuses. MMF typically has a core diameter of 50–62.5 µm, and it uses LEDs or VCSEL lasers as light sources. The main types standardized by ISO/IEC 11801 are OM1, OM2, OM3, OM4, and OM5, each optimized for different speeds and distances .Detailed ComparisonFiber TypeCore DiameterJacket ColorOptical SourceBandwidthMax Distance (10GbE)Typical ApplicationsOM162.5 µmOrangeLED200 MHz·km33 m100M Ethernet, legacy networksOM250 µmOrangeLED500 MHz·km82 m1G Ethernet, short-distance 10GOM350 µmAquaLaser-optimized VCSEL2000 MHz·km300 m10G Ethernet, 40/100G up to 100 mOM450 µmAquaLaser-optimized VCSEL4700 MHz·km550 m10G/40G/100G Ethernet, longer distances than OM3OM550 µmLime GreenLaser-optimized VCSEL, wideband4700–5000 MHz·kmSimilar to OM4Supports multiple wavelengths for WDM, future-proof high-speed networksKey Features and ConsiderationsOM1 and OM2: Older standards, primarily LED-based, suitable for legacy 1G or 100M Ethernet networks. Limited distance and bandwidth make them less ideal for modern high-speed applications .OM3 and OM4: Laser-optimized for VCSELs, supporting higher data rates and longer distances. OM4 extends the reach of 10G Ethernet from 300 m (OM3) to 550 m, making it ideal for modern data centers .OM5: Introduced for wideband multimode applications, supporting shortwave WDM (SWDM) to transmit multiple wavelengths over a single fiber, enabling higher aggregate bandwidth and future-proofing networks .ApplicationsMultimode fibers are widely used in data centers, enterprise networks, and campus backbones. They are cost-effective for short-range connections due to lower-cost transceivers compared to single-mode fiber. OM3, OM4, and OM5 are preferred for high-speed Ethernet (10G, 40G, 100G), while OM1 and OM2 are mostly found in older installations .SummaryChoosing the right multimode fiber depends on required data rate, distance, and future scalability. For modern high-speed networks, OM3, OM4, and OM5 are recommended, while OM1 and OM2 are suitable for legacy or short-distance applications. The core size, optical source, and jacket color help identify the fiber type and ensure compatibility with network equipment .