Multimode Fiber Types: OM1 vs OM2 vs OM3 vs OM4 vs OM5

In the world of fiber optic networking, multimode fiber (MMF) is a crucial component for transmitting data over short to medium distances. With a variety of multimode fiber types available, choosing the right one for your network infrastructure can be challenging. This blog post delves into the differences between the five main multimode fiber types: OM1, OM2, OM3, OM4, and OM5, to help you make an informed decision for your organization’s needs.

Omnitron Systems, a leading provider of fiber optic solutions, is here to break down these options, explaining their features, applications, and how they can impact the performance of your network.

What Is Multimode Fiber?

Multimode fiber is a type of fiber optic cable that supports multiple light paths or modes. Each mode corresponds to a different path the light signals take within the fiber core. This characteristic makes multimode fiber well-suited for short-distance data transmission.

The types of multimode fiber are distinguished by their core diameters, transmission performance, and optimal operating distances. Over the years, different generations of multimode fiber cables, such as OM1, OM2, OM3, OM4, and OM5, have been developed to improve bandwidth and signal integrity.

Key Features of Multimode Fiber

• Core Diameter: The core diameter in multimode fiber typically ranges from 50 µm to 62.5 µm, depending on the type. This diameter impacts how light is transmitted through the fiber.
• Bandwidth: Different fiber types support varying bandwidth levels, which influence data transmission speeds and distances.
• Light Propagation: The types differ in how efficiently they allow light signals to travel, affecting performance over different distances.

Read more: Single-Mode vs. Multimode Fiber Cable

What’s The Advantages of Multimode Fiber?

Multimode fiber offers several key advantages that make it an ideal choice for certain networking applications, especially over shorter to medium distances. Here are some of the main benefits:

• Cost-Effective: Multimode fiber is generally more affordable than single-mode fiber, especially for short-distance applications, making it an attractive option for organizations on a budget.
• Easier Installation: The larger core diameter of multimode fiber makes it easier to handle and align, reducing the complexity of installation compared to single-mode fiber.
• Higher Bandwidth: With advancements like OM3, OM4, and OM5, multimode fiber can support significantly higher bandwidths, enabling faster data transmission.
• Supports Higher Data Rates: Multimode fiber types such as OM3, OM4, and OM5 support data rates up to 400 Gbps, making them suitable for high-performance applications in data centers and enterprise networks.
• Ideal for Shorter Distances: Multimode fiber is perfect for short to medium-distance data transmission, such as within buildings, campuses, or between nearby data centers.
• Flexible for Future Upgrades: The latest multimode fiber types like OM5 are designed to handle next-generation technologies, offering scalability as network demands increase.

These advantages make multimode fiber a reliable and efficient choice for many organizations, especially where high-speed data transmission is required within a limited geographic range.

OM1 Multimode Fiber: The Legacy Standard

OM1 is the earliest type of multimode fiber, often referred to as "legacy" fiber. It has a core diameter of 62.5 µm, which is larger than the newer OM types. However, due to its higher light dispersion, OM1 has a limited bandwidth compared to its successors.

• Core Diameter: 62.5 µm
• Bandwidth: 200 MHz·km (at 850 nm)
• Transmission Distance: 300 meters at 1 Gbps, 33 meters at 10 Gbps

Applications of OM1

OM1 fiber is typically used in older network setups that operate at lower speeds, such as legacy systems in educational institutions or small businesses. It’s still relevant for environments where high-speed data transmission is not critical.OM2 Multimode Fiber: The Intermediate Choice

OM2 multimode fiber is similar to OM1 in terms of core diameter but offers better performance with a slightly reduced core size of 50 µm. OM2 fiber is ideal for applications that require medium-distance transmission at higher speeds than OM1 can handle.

• Core Diameter: 50 µm
• Bandwidth: 500 MHz·km (at 850 nm)
• Transmission Distance: 550 meters at 1 Gbps, 82 meters at 10 Gbps

Applications of OM2

OM2 is often used in corporate networks and data centers where the transmission distances are moderate, and higher-speed data transfer is necessary. This fiber type is commonly found in network backbones, connecting servers and switches.

OM3 Multimode Fiber: The High-Bandwidth Solution

OM3 multimode fiber represents a significant improvement over OM1 and OM2. It has a core diameter of 50 µm and features optimized performance for higher data transmission rates and longer distances. OM3 supports laser-optimized transmission, allowing for greater efficiency in data centers and enterprise-level networks.

• Core Diameter: 50 µm
• Bandwidth: 2000 MHz·km (at 850 nm)
• Transmission Distance: 300 meters at 10 Gbps, 100 meters at 40 Gbps

Applications of OM3

OM3 fiber is widely used in modern data centers and enterprise networks that require high-speed transmissions for applications such as cloud computing, virtualization, and video conferencing. It is also suitable for 10 Gigabit Ethernet (10GbE) systems.

OM4 Multimode Fiber: Enhanced Performance for the Future

OM4 multimode fiber offers even better performance than OM3. It has a similar core diameter but is optimized for higher bandwidth and longer transmission distances. OM4 is often chosen for environments where speed and distance are crucial, such as high-performance computing and 100 Gigabit Ethernet networks.

• Core Diameter: 50 µm
• Bandwidth: 4700 MHz·km (at 850 nm)
• Transmission Distance: 400 meters at 10 Gbps, 150 meters at 40 Gbps

Applications of OM4

OM4 fiber is perfect for high-demand applications that require extreme bandwidth and distance, such as large data centers, high-speed backbone networks, and systems that need to support 100GbE.

OM5 Multimode Fiber: The Next Generation of Multimode Fiber

OM5 is the latest generation of multimode fiber, designed to support high-speed data transmission at even greater distances. This fiber type supports shortwave division multiplexing (SWDM), enabling the transmission of multiple wavelengths over the same fiber, which enhances its capabilities.

• Core Diameter: 50 µm
• Bandwidth: 20000 MHz·km (at 850 nm)
• Transmission Distance: 400 meters at 100 Gbps, 70 meters at 400 Gbps

Applications of OM5

OM5 is ideal for data centers and enterprise networks where cutting-edge speed and future-proofing are essential. It’s perfect for applications requiring massive bandwidth, such as 100GbE and 400GbE networks, and can handle high-density setups with ease.

Comparison of Multimode Fiber Types: OM1, OM2, OM3, OM4, OM5

Which Multimode Fiber Type is Right for You?

Factors to Consider When Choosing Multimode Fiber

• Network Size and Requirements: Smaller networks with low-speed requirements may benefit from OM1 or OM2, while larger and high-performance networks will need OM3, OM4, or OM5.
• Distance and Bandwidth: If you need to cover longer distances with higher bandwidth, OM4 and OM5 are excellent choices, offering both longer reach and higher data rates.
• Future-Proofing: If you're planning to upgrade your network or expect future growth, opting for OM3, OM4, or OM5 will ensure your fiber network can handle increasing data traffic and higher speeds.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN OM1 AND OM2 FIBER?

OM1 and OM2 differ in their core diameter and bandwidth. OM1 has a 62.5 µm core and lower bandwidth, while OM2 has a 50 µm core and better bandwidth, making OM2 more suitable for higher-speed applications over moderate distances.

2. HOW FAR CAN OM3 FIBER TRANSMIT DATA?

OM3 fiber can transmit data up to 300 meters at 10 Gbps and up to 100 meters at 40 Gbps, making it ideal for medium-range, high-speed applications like enterprise networks and data centers.

3. IS OM4 FIBER BETTER THAN OM3?

Yes, OM4 fiber offers superior bandwidth and longer transmission distances compared to OM3. OM4 supports up to 4700 MHz·km of bandwidth and can transmit data over 400 meters at 10 Gbps, which makes it ideal for high-performance networks.

4. WHAT IS SWDM IN OM5 FIBER?

SWDM, or Shortwave Division Multiplexing, is a technology used in OM5 fiber that allows multiple wavelengths to be transmitted over the same fiber, significantly increasing its capacity and performance, particularly in high-density applications.

5. CAN I MIX DIFFERENT TYPES OF MULTIMODE FIBER?

It’s not advisable to mix different types of multimode fiber in a single link, as it can cause signal degradation and decreased performance. For optimal results, always use the same fiber type for both the transmission and receiving ends.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding the differences between the various multimode fiber types—OM1, OM2, OM3, OM4, and OM5—is essential for selecting the right fiber optic solution for your network. Each type has its own strengths, with older fiber types like OM1 and OM2 being suitable for basic networking needs, while the more advanced OM3, OM4, and OM5 are ideal for high-speed, long-distance, and future-proof applications.

At Omnitron Systems, we are committed to providing high-quality fiber optic solutions that support your business’s growth and performance. Whether you're upgrading your network or building a new one, trust us to deliver reliable and high-performance fiber solutions that keep you ahead of the curve. Get a quote for free network design.