Multimode Optical Cable Model Identification Rules

Multimode optical cables are identified by the OM designation (OM1–OM5), which indicates core size, modal bandwidth, jacket color, and supported data rates according to ISO/IEC 11801 standards.Core Identification RulesOM1Core size: 62.5 µmJacket color: OrangeLight source: LEDBandwidth: Lower modal bandwidth, suitable for 100 MbE and 1 GbEMax 10 GbE distance: ~33 metersUse case: Legacy networks, short-distance applications OM2Core size: 50 µmJacket color: OrangeLight source: LEDBandwidth: Moderate, supports 1 GbE and limited 10 GbEMax 10 GbE distance: ~82 metersUse case: Legacy 1 GbE networks, backward compatibility with OM1 OM3Core size: 50 µmJacket color: AquaLight source: Laser-optimized VCSELBandwidth: High, supports 10 GbE up to 300 mUse case: Modern LAN and data center installations, supports emerging 40/100 GbE up to 100 m OM4Core size: 50 µmJacket color: AquaLight source: Laser-optimized VCSELBandwidth: Very high, supports 10 GbE up to 550 m, 40/100 GbE up to 150 mUse case: High-performance computing, cloud data centers, future-proofing beyond OM3 distances OM5Core size: 50 µmJacket color: Lime greenLight source: Laser-optimized, supports short-wavelength division multiplexing (SWDM)Bandwidth: 4700 MHz·km at 850 nm, 2470 MHz·km at 953 nmUse case: Supports multi-wavelength 40/100/400G SWDM transceivers, optimized for next-generation high-speed networks Additional Identification ConsiderationsISO/IEC 11801 Standard: OM designations are standardized internationally to indicate performance levels for multimode fibers. OM1–OM5 differ in core size, modal bandwidth, and maximum supported distances .Jacket Color Coding: Provides a quick visual identification of fiber type (e.g., orange for OM1/OM2, aqua for OM3/OM4, lime green for OM5).Light Source Compatibility: OM1/OM2 typically use LEDs, while OM3–OM5 are optimized for VCSEL lasers.Backward Compatibility: OM3 and OM4 fibers are compatible with legacy OM2 installations, allowing gradual network upgrades .Performance Metrics: Include modal bandwidth, attenuation, and maximum supported Ethernet speeds. OM3/OM4 are recommended for new LAN and data center installations due to cost-effectiveness and support for 10/40/100 GbE . By following these rules, network engineers can accurately identify multimode fiber types, ensure proper deployment, and maintain compatibility with existing and future high-speed network equipment.