Which type of fiber optic cable is generally used for long-distance communication?

Singlemode fiber is specifically designed for long-distance communication. It consists of a small core diameter, typically around 8 to 10 micrometers, which allows only one mode of light to propagate. This single path for light reduces modal dispersion, a phenomenon that can cause signal loss and distortion in multimode fibers where multiple light paths interfere with each other.

The high bandwidth capabilities of singlemode fiber and its ability to transmit signals over long distances without significant loss make it ideal for telecommunications networks, data centers, and other applications where high performance over distance is critical. As a result, organizations often rely on singlemode fiber for connections that require high capacity and extended reach, such as connecting distant facilities or service providers.

In contrast, multimode fiber, while suitable for shorter distances due to its larger core size, can suffer from modal dispersion, which limits its effectiveness over long stretches. Plastic optical fiber is used in specialized applications and domestic environments where flexibility and ease of installation are prioritized, but it does not perform as well as glass fiber types for long-distance communication. Simplex fiber, while referring to the configuration that allows data to travel in only one direction, does not itself denote a specific type of fiber optimized for long distance, thus not being suitable as a