There are misconceptions about the difference between single-mode fiber optic cable and multi-mode fiber optic cable. The biggest misconception is that single-mode fiber is significantly more expensive than multi-mode fiber. In the early days of fiber optic cable, it was true that single-mode fiber was much more expensive than multi-mode fiber. Single mode fiber was designed to transmit over longer distances. It was almost exclusively used by carriers and service providers and it was very expensive. Multi-mode fiber was what average data users installed. Multi-mode fiber is designed for transmission over shorter distances and it suited for most commercial needs. And back then, it came with a lower price tag.
As with most technology, the passage of time changed things. Data speeds have dramatically increased, and the cost of single-mode fiber has dropped significantly. The cost of single-mode fiber has dropped to the point where the difference between it and multi-mode fiber is negligible, so the benefits may outweigh any slight cost difference.
How do these changes impact your communications infrastructure?
If you are currently installing new cabling and you install multi-mode fiber as the backbone of your communications system, you are limiting your capability in the future. Multi-mode only supports a maximum of 10 gig of data. As speeds continue to increase, your network needs to keep up. Not too far down the road, the standard will be 40-gig; with 100-gig coming up on the horizon.
Right now, multi-mode fiber might provide enough speed to meet your data needs. But, in 3-5 years when it’s time for your next upgrade will it be enough? Speeds will continue to increase and at some point, your multi-mode fiber will reach its capacity. Currently single mode fiber has infinite speed – meaning there is no data speed available today that single mode fiber will not support.
If your data speed needs are continuing to grow, and you are sticking with multi-mode fiber because you think single-mode fiber will break the bank, you should reconsider. The cost difference between single-mode fiber and multi-mode fiber is now insignificant and the companion equipment costs have similarly dropped so the cost difference no longer needs to be a consideration in your planning.
If you are designing a network for a new facility or looking at an upgrade for your current facility, single-mode fiber should be on the table as an option. KTS would be happy to evaluate your data network and guide you on your best and most cost-effective options for your network needs.
