Single Mode vs Multi Mode Fiber Optic

Transceivers
Overview
Fiber transceivers are module components that can both transmit and receive optical
signals to facilitate communication. They are usually inserted into devices such as
network interface cards or routers that provide one or more transceiver modules.
Fiber Optic Transceivers
These are devices that are used to transmit and receive optical signals in an optical
network. The Fiber Optic Transceivers facilitate a bi-directional data transmission
between the electronic devices such as computers, input/output devices, peripheral
devices or switches, to the optical data link in the system of the fiber optic.
Types of Transceiver Models
The Fiber transceivers usually come in two modes. These are
1. Single - Mode Optical Transceivers
2. Multi- Mode Optical Transceivers
SINGLE-MODE FIBER OPTICAL TRANSCEIVERS
this is a type of optical fiber that allows only one mode to propagate. The type of the
fiber used has a very small core diameter of approximately 8 micrometers.
It permits the transmission of signals at the very extreme high bandwidths thus
facilitating the transmission of signals at very long distances.

MULTI-MODE FIBER OPTICAL TRANSCEIVERS

These types of transceivers support the propagation of optical signals in multiple
modes. The fiber used in this type of model has a typical core diameter of 50 - 100
micrometers with a graded or stepped refractive index. It permits the use of
inexpensive LED light sources and alignment of the connectors with a coupling that is
less critical than that of the single mode fiber. The distance of the transmission of the
signals is less than that of the single mode due to dispersion.

Analysis of the differences between Single-Mode Transceivers and Multi-Mode

Transceivers
Chance are that you may need to make a choice between these two types of Fiber
Transceivers in order to make a purchase. Before making any purchase decision, there
are a couple of issues that you need to be informed about. Consideration of these
factors can be an aid to preventing incurring any additional costs in the future. Let us
evaluate the key differences.
1. Distance
The single mode transceiver has a greater distance potential and can support runs
from the range of 2M to 10,000M
When it comes to the multi-mode transceiver, they generally have a reach of
approximately 550M.
The use of single mode fiber in the transceivers exhibits lower power loss
characteristics than the multimode fiber. This is to mean that light can travel longer
distance with the single mode in comparison to the multimode.
2. Cost
The optics used in the single mode fiber (SMF) are twice those used in the multimode
fiber (MMF). However, when installed as part of a project, the extra cost of the SMF
is negligible in comparison to MMF.
What makes the SMF expensive is fragility and the increased cost of production. This
is the reason MMF is used when the distances involved are not long.

3. Speed
When it comes to the speed, both the single mode Fiber Optic Transceivers and the
multi-mode transceivers can handle the 10G speeds. However, distance requirements
are quite critical.
The multi-mode will appropriately deliver at 300 - 400 meters.
The single mode can get you through 10km, 40km, 80km and even farther. What you
will be required to use is the appropriate optic for the distance required.
4. Compatibility Issues
When it comes to issues dealing with compatibility, the two types of transceivers are
not compatible. You cannot mix the multimode and the single mode fiber between
any two endpoints.
What to note when using Both Single Mode and Multi-Mode Transceivers
1. Ensure that in the single mode transceivers, both ends of the fiber patch cord are of
the same wavelength. The color for the used modules must be all consistent
2. In order to ensure and facilitate the data accuracy, short wave SFP modules are
used with the multi-mode transceivers while long wave SFP modules are used with
the single-mode fiber
3. Do not wind or over-bend the fiber optic cables when using them. This is because
doing so will attenuate the light in transit.
Making the Choice
Today, the multimode fiber optic transmission system is lagging behind the single
mode system in terms of growth. The single mode systems support high data
throughput, and they are easy to upgrade in their installations. However, the
multimode system still gets plenty of coverage in any fiber optic cable guide reason
being that it has many applications.
The multimode system is well suited for the short fiber optic links such as the local
area networks. For wide area networks, there is no doubt that single mode systems are
the king.