What are Different Types of Fiber Optic Cables?

Cables.com stocks both multi mode and single mode fiber optic cables. We also carry MTP/MPO cables, fiber optic pigtails, fiber optic trunk cables, and fiber optic mode conditioning cables. Learn about the different types of optical fiber cables at Cables.com.

What kind of fiber optic cables do you need for your data network connection? In the past, we've gone into some detail about the differences between single mode and multi mode fiber optic cables, and which might be the best for you. But did you know that there are additional kinds of fiber cables that you might need for your network?

What are MTP/MPO Cables?

MTP and MPO are two terms frequently associated with Fiber Optic Cables. Though they're used interchangeably, it's worth noting that while all MTPs are MPOs, the reverse isn't true -  the MTP connector is licensed to a company in the USA. Otherwise these two connectors are used in scenarios where space is a premium, so they fit 12 strands of fiber optic cable into one connector! They offer increased performance and more features as well. With a push and pull mechanism they are much more durable than regular fiber optic connectors.

Our MPO 12 Connector OM4 Fiber Optic Cable is available in A or B pin configurations, and you have the option of  requesting a custom length as well as Riser/PVC or Plenum/CMP jackets. High quality corning glass is used at each core, and test results are included with each unit. 

What is a Fiber Optic Trunk Cable?

Fiber trunk cables are intended to connect switches, server panels, and zone distribution areas in a fiber optic data center. Make sure you have all the cables necessary to keep your optical fiber network running at peak capacity. You can choose your length when you're ordering your MPO to 12 LC Breakout OM3 Fiber Optic cable. 

When do you need a Fiber Optic Pigtail Cable?

A fiber pigtail is a single short optical fiber that has an optical connector on one end and a length of exposed fiber at the other end.

The end of the pigtail is stripped and spliced to a single fiber of a multi-fiber trunk. Splicing of pigtails to each fiber in the trunk "breaks out" the multi-fiber cable into its component fibers for connection to the end equipment.

At Cables.com, you have the option to choose between multi mode or single mode fiber optic pigtail cables.

What is a Fiber Optic Mode Conditioning Cable?

Choosing the right cable can be a daunting task for most people. Cables.com makes it easy with and endless stock of cables and wires to suit your professional needs. A mode conditioning patch cord is a special fiber patch cable intended to combine and calibrate multimode fiber cable and single mode fiber optic cables. We're proud to offer our Datacomm Fiber Optic Mode Conditioning Cables at the lowest prices online or elsewhere.

Shopping Fiber Optic Cables at Cables.com

Cables.com offers a wide variety of ready-made Fiber Optic Cables, Fiber Optic Patch Cables, and Fiber Optic Connectors. You can choose to purchase our Fiber Optic Cable in Bulk and Custom Made Fiber Cables for any application and installation in professional and home environments. We want to meet all your data network needs, from the cables themselves to the tools and accessories you'll need to keep them operating at their very best. If you have any questions, feel free to Contact Us or email us at sales@cables.com! We look forward to working with you. 

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