4-core single-mode optical cable comparison table

4-core single-mode optical cables are typically available in OS1 and OS2 variants, designed for long-distance, high-speed data transmission with different construction types for indoor, outdoor, or hybrid applications.Core Variants: OS1 vs OS2OS1: Optimized for indoor or short-distance applications, OS1 cables have a tightly buffered design, low attenuation (0.4 dB/km at 1310 nm), and support transmission up to 10 km at 10 Gbps .OS2: Designed for outdoor or long-haul networks, OS2 cables feature a loose-tube or gel-filled construction, lower attenuation (0.3 dB/km at 1550 nm), and can transmit data up to 40 km at 10 Gbps .Construction TypesTight-Buffered 4-Core Cables: Each fiber is individually coated with a protective buffer, making them flexible and suitable for indoor installations, patch panels, and interconnects .Loose-Tube 4-Core Cables: Fibers are housed in a gel-filled or dry tube, providing protection against moisture and mechanical stress, ideal for outdoor, aerial, or direct-burial deployments .Armored 4-Core Cables: Include a metallic or composite armor layer for enhanced protection against rodents, crushing, or harsh environments, commonly used in industrial or outdoor settings .Jacket and Environmental OptionsIndoor Cables: Flame-retardant jackets (e.g., LSZH or PVC) for compliance with building codes.Outdoor Cables: UV-resistant, water-blocking jackets for exposure to sunlight, rain, or underground installation.Hybrid Indoor/Outdoor: Designed for campus or enterprise networks where cables transition from outdoor to indoor environments.ApplicationsTelecom Backbone: OS2 4-core cables for long-distance high-speed links.Data Centers: OS1 4-core tight-buffered cables for inter-rack or intra-building connections.FTTH (Fiber to the Home): Both OS1 and OS2 variants depending on distance and deployment type.Campus Networks: Hybrid cables connecting multiple buildings with both indoor and outdoor segments.Key Performance MetricsCore Diameter: 8–10 µm for single-mode operation .Bandwidth: High, supporting 10 Gbps and beyond.Attenuation: OS1 up to 0.4 dB/km at 1310 nm; OS2 up to 0.3 dB/km at 1550 nm .Distance: OS1 up to 10 km; OS2 up to 40 km without repeaters . In summary, 4-core single-mode optical cables are available in OS1 and OS2 types, with multiple construction options (tight-buffered, loose-tube, armored) and environmental ratings (indoor, outdoor, hybrid), making them versatile for telecom, data center, and enterprise network deployments .