Fiber Optics Types Optical fibers are manufactured in three main types: Multi Mode step-index, Multi Mode graded-index, and Single Mode

Properties Of Optical Fiber Transmission The principles behind the transfer of light along an optical fiber were discussed earlier in this chapter. You learned that propagation of light depended on the nature of light and the structure of the optical fiber. However, our discussion did not describe how optical fibers affect system performance. In this case, system performance deals with signal loss and bandwidth. Signal loss and system bandwidth describe the amount of data transmitted over a specified length of fiber. Many optical fiber properties increase signal loss and reduce system bandwidth. The most important properties that affect system performance are fiber attenuation and dispersion.

Properties Of Optical Fiber Transmission Attenuation reduces the amount of optical power transmitted by the fiber. Attenuation controls the distance an optical signal (pulse) can travel as shown in the picture. Once the power of an optical pulse is reduced to a point where the receiver is unable to detect the pulse, an error occurs. Attenuation is mainly a result of light absorption, scattering, and bending losses. Dispersion spreads the optical pulse as it travels along the fiber. This spreading of the signal pulse reduces the system bandwidth or the information-carrying capacity of the fiber. Dispersion limits how fast information is transferred as shown in the picture. An error occurs when the receiver is unable to distinguish between input pulses caused by the spreading of each pulse.

Cable Construction Like copper wire, fiber optic cable is available in many physical variations. There are single and multiple conductor constructions, aerial and direct burial styles, plenum and riser cables and even ultra-rugged military type tactical cables that will withstand severe mechanical abuse. Which cable one chooses is, of course, dependent upon the application. These fibers are protected by an internal construction that is unique to fiber optic cable. The two most common protection schemes in use today are to enclose the tiny fiber in a loose fitting tube or to coat the fiber with a tight fitting buffer coating.

Optical Fiber Sizes The international standard for the cladding diameter of optical fibers is 125 microns (mm). This compatibility is important in that it allows fibers to fit into standard connectors and splices, and allows standard tools to be used throughout the industry. The differences among fibers lie in their core sizes ­­ the light-carrying region of the fiber. Standard Single Mode fibers are manufactured with the smallest core size, approximately 8-10 mm in diameter. With its greater information-carrying capacity, Single Mode fiber typically is used for longer distance and higher bandwidth applications. Multi Mode fibers are available in several core sizes. The most widely used sizes are 50 mm and 62.5 mm. Larger core sizes generally have greater bandwidth and are easier to couple and interconnect.

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