Which type of fiber is typically used for higher bandwidth applications?

Singlemode fiber is typically used for higher bandwidth applications due to its design, which allows it to transmit data over longer distances with minimal signal loss and distortion. This type of fiber optic cable has a smaller core diameter (approximately 9 micrometers) that enables only one mode of light to propagate through it. As a result, singlemode fiber supports higher data rates and bandwidths, making it an optimal choice for long-haul telecommunications and high-capacity networks.

In contrast, multimode fiber, which has a larger core diameter (about 50 or 62.5 micrometers), can carry multiple light modes simultaneously but is limited to shorter distances because the different paths taken by each mode can lead to modal dispersion. This dispersion limits the overall effective bandwidth, making multimode fiber less suitable for high-bandwidth applications over long distances.

Plastic optical fiber is also designed for short-distance applications and is generally used in low-speed networks due to its larger core and higher attenuation compared to glass optical fibers. While it is easier to handle and install, it does not support the same level of bandwidth or distance as singlemode or multimode glass fibers.

Thus, the characteristics of singlemode fiber position it as the best choice for higher bandwidth needs, particularly in