An Ultimate Guide for Selection of Fiber Optic Cables and Connectors
Introduction
Fiber optics, being a signal transmission technology, utilizes a transmission media. The transmission media in fiber optics technology is fiber optic cables. Typically, fiber optic cable networks are made of several fiber optic cables. These fiber optics are integrated into a network using specific fiber optic connectors. Since cables and connectors are essential elements of a fiber-optic network, it is important to select the right types of cables and connectors for specific applications. However, the selection of these two elements is a complex process due to the availability of a varying range of types, features, and specifications. With the advancement in technology, the fiber optic cables and connectors have evolved with several beneficial parameters, therefore, the selection becomes a little complex.

Although there are no strict criteria for the selection of fiber optic cables and connectors, the industry experts recommend certain factors of consideration and guidelines during the selection. This whitepaper literates the readers about fiber optic cables, fiber optic connectors, and their selection guidelines.
SECTION I
An Overview of Fiber Optic Cables
Fiber optic cables are a bundle of glass fibers that carry optical signals. The glass strands in the fiber optic cables are known as optical strands. The light waves or photon streams are transmitted via the core of these optical strands by the phenomenon of optical refraction. Complete or partial refraction takes place inside the glass strands and the signal transmits forward through the fiber optic cable. The fiber optic cable is manufactured by wrapping a large number of glass strands inside the cladding and protective jacket. These fiber optic cables are also known as optical-fiber-cables.
The fiber optic cables consist of building elements like core, cladding, jacket, etc, which further collectively enable single-mode or multi-mode transmission of optical signals. The fiber optic cables are used for several industrial applications like telecommunication, video signal transmission, computer data transmission, and storage, etc. Each application demands different specifications, therefore, the application-centric selection of optical fiber cables is essential. Also, the function of fiber optic transmission is dependent on factors that are the type of cable construction, fiber core diameter, bandwidth, and attenuation. The operation-centric and result-oriented selection of fiber optic cables takes consideration of all these factors.
Selection Parameters for Fiber Optic Cables
The following is the list of selected parameters of fiber optic cables for specific applications.