OM1 vs OM2 vs OM3 vs OM4 vs OM5 Fiber Cable [Diff. & Comparison]

Fiber optic cables play a crucial role in modern networking, offering high-speed data transmission with minimal signal loss. They are widely used in data centers, telecommunications, and enterprise networks to support growing bandwidth demands. Among fiber optic cables, multimode fiber (OM) cables are specifically designed for short- to medium-distance applications, providing cost-effective solutions for high-speed networking. Understanding the differences between OM1, OM2, OM3, OM4, and OM5 cables is essential for making informed decisions when selecting the right fiber type for a specific application.

Each OM fiber type has distinct characteristics, including core size, bandwidth capacity, and maximum transmission distance. OM1 and OM2 are traditional fiber types, supporting lower data rates over shorter distances, while OM3 and OM4 are optimised for higher-speed applications like 10Gbps and beyond. OM5, the latest advancement, is designed for short-wavelength division multiplexing (SWDM), allowing more efficient data transmission. Choosing the right OM cable ensures network efficiency, cost savings, and future scalability.

What is OM (Optical Multimode) Fiber?

OM (Optical Multimode) fiber is a classification system used to differentiate multimode fiber optic cables based on their performance, core size, and bandwidth capacity. The OM classification (OM1, OM2, OM3, OM4, and OM5) defines the fiber’s ability to transmit data at different speeds and distances, making it an essential factor in networking and telecommunications.

Multimode fiber differs from single-mode fiber in several ways. While single-mode fiber (SMF) has a smaller core size (typically 8-10 microns) and is designed for long-distance data transmission using a single light mode, multimode fiber has a larger core (50 or 62.5 microns) and allows multiple light modes to travel simultaneously. This design makes OM fiber more cost-effective for short- to medium-distance applications but limits its range due to modal dispersion.

OM fiber cables are widely used in high-speed networking environments such as data centers, enterprise networks, and telecommunications infrastructure. They support applications like Ethernet, Fibre Channel, and InfiniBand, ensuring efficient data transmission in environments that require high bandwidth over relatively short distances.

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Comparison Table: OM1 vs OM2 vs OM3 vs OM4 vs OM5

Key Takeaways:

• OM1 and OM2 are used in legacy and short-range enterprise networks but have limited bandwidth.

• OM3 and OM4 are ideal for high-speed data centers, supporting 10Gbps and up to 100Gbps over medium distances.

• OM5 is optimised for emerging technologies, offering the highest bandwidth and better performance for wavelength division multiplexing (WDM).

Detailed Breakdown of OM1, OM2, OM3, OM4 & OM5

OM1 Fiber Cable

• Core Diameter: 62.5µm

• Jacket Color: Orange

• Maximum Speed & Distance: Limited to lower speeds and shorter distances compared to newer fiber types. Typically supports 1Gbps up to 275m.

• Common Uses: Found in older network infrastructures, legacy systems, and applications where high-speed data transmission is not a priority.

• Buy OM1 Cable

OM2 Fiber Cable

• Core Diameter: 50µm

• Jacket Color: Orange

• Bandwidth & Speed: Higher bandwidth than OM1, supporting up to 10Gbps at shorter distances. Typically supports 1Gbps up to 550m.

• Common Uses: Ideal for Gigabit Ethernet networks, short-distance data transmission, and small to medium-sized business applications.

OM3 Fiber Cable

• Core Diameter: 50µm

• Jacket Color: Aqua

• Bandwidth & Speed: Supports 10Gbps up to 300m and 40Gbps/100Gbps up to 100m.

• Technology: Laser-Optimised Multimode Fiber (LOMMF) for better performance with VCSEL-based transceivers.

• Common Uses: Ideal for high-speed data centers, enterprise networks, and backbone cabling for large-scale applications.

• Buy OM3 Cable

OM4 Fiber Cable

• Core Diameter: 50µm

• Jacket Color: Aqua or Violet

• Bandwidth & Speed: Supports 10Gbps up to 550m, 40Gbps/100Gbps up to 150m.

• Technology: Enhanced version of OM3 with higher bandwidth and lower attenuation.

• Common Uses: Preferred for high-speed data centers, enterprise networks, and long-distance multimode applications.

• Buy OM4 Cable

OM5 Fiber Cable

• Core Diameter: 50µm

• Jacket Color: Lime Green

• Bandwidth & Speed: Designed for 40Gbps and 100Gbps transmission, with potential for 200Gbps and beyond using SWDM.

• Technology: Supports Short Wavelength Division Multiplexing (SWDM) to transmit multiple signals over a single fiber.

• Common Uses: Ideal for high-speed data centers, cloud computing, and next-generation enterprise networks.

• Buy OM5 Cable

Key Differences Between OM1, OM2, OM3, OM4 & OM5

Speed and Bandwidth Capabilities: OM1 supports lower speeds (up to 1Gbps), while OM3, OM4, and OM5 are optimised for higher speeds (10Gbps, 40Gbps, and 100Gbps+). OM5 also supports SWDM for enhanced performance.

Distance Limitations for Different Data Rates: Higher OM grades (OM3, OM4, OM5) allow longer transmission distances at higher speeds. For example, OM3 supports 300m at 10Gbps, while OM4 extends to 550m. OM5 further improves performance for ultra-high-speed applications.

Compatibility with Existing Network Infrastructure: OM1 and OM2 are often found in legacy systems, while OM3, OM4, and OM5 are widely used in modern high-speed networks. OM5 is backward-compatible with OM4 but optimised for next-gen applications.

Cost Considerations for Installation and Upgrades: OM1 and OM2 are more affordable but may require costly upgrades for higher speeds. OM3 and OM4 offer a balance between cost and performance, while OM5, though more expensive, provides future-proofing for evolving network demands.

Choosing the Right OM Fiber for Your Needs

When selecting an OM fiber type, consider the following factors:

Current and Future Bandwidth Requirements: If your network needs only 1Gbps, OM1 or OM2 may be sufficient. However, for 10Gbps, 40Gbps, or 100Gbps+ applications, OM3, OM4, or OM5 are better choices.

Distance Between Network Endpoints: Shorter distances (up to 300m) can be managed with OM3, while OM4 extends to 550m at 10Gbps. OM5 offers improved performance for longer distances in high-speed environments.

Budget and Scalability Options: OM1 and OM2 are cost-effective for legacy systems but may require upgrades. OM3 and OM4 balance affordability with high-speed capabilities, while OM5 is ideal for future-proofing high-bandwidth networks.

Best Options for Data Centers, Enterprises, and Telecom Providers: OM3 and OM4 are widely used in data centers and enterprise networks. OM5 is recommended for telecom and hyperscale data centers requiring ultra-high-speed transmission and enhanced performance.

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Conclusion

OM fiber cables play a crucial role in modern networking, with each type offering different speed, bandwidth, and distance capabilities. From OM1 for legacy systems to OM5 for high-speed data centers, choosing the right cable depends on your specific requirements. Whether upgrading an existing network or deploying a new fiber solution, selecting the appropriate OM fiber ensures optimal performance and scalability.

For top-quality fiber optic cables, explore our wide range at CableHub and find the perfect solution for your networking needs.