The Fiber Polishing Mechanical Techniques and Guidelines

Unlike electrical wires, optical fibers require end-surface treatment for proper light propagation. The two most common ways of surface preparations are cleaving and polishing. While fiber cleavage is very effective on fibers with small diameters such as 125 microns, polishing is essential for almost all glass-based fibers with cladding deameters larger than 200 microns. Furthermore, all fiber connectors require polishing.

When it is time to purchase a mechanical polishing machine there are a number of questions that should be asked:

1. Are the operating functions simple to use?
2. Does the unit offer easy connector interchangeability?
3. Are the polishing platens easy to access?
4. Is there a pressure-setting feature?
5. Does the polishing motion attack the connectors from all sides equally?
6. Can the machine perform angle polishes?
7. Does the manufacturer have the capability to supply custom fixturing if needed?
8. Are the end results meeting and/ or exceeding current end-face standards?

A quality production polisher will answer "yes" to all of these questions.

In detail, a fiber polisher will have:

1. Timer - a settable timer allows a pre-defined timed sequence of operations techniques to be used. Timing has proven to be critical in obtaining connector performance specifications. A timer should have time settings ranging from 0 to 60 seconds.

2. Pressure setting device - a polishing machine must have adjustable pressure loading capability. Pressure combined with the hardness of the polishing surface will allow the machine to produce the connectors' required end-face geometry. This device should have a setting tool that has clearly marked divisions of measurement.

3. Inter - changeability of connector holders - connector holders that can be removed quickly and easily offer increased output, less downtime and improved production. A machine that offers connector holders for all connector types adds flexibility to production.

4. Availability of the connector holders - In evaluating the equipment, it is important to consider the available connector holders. It is important that the manufacturer has available holders for the standard connectors used around the world - SC, FC, ST - for both PC and APC configurations.

Also, the manufacturer should have the capability to provide a range of connector holders beyond the "standard" used - versatility in this area will minimize lost opportunities and maximize the ability to meet potential customer requests.

5. Removable Polishing Platens - polishing platens carry the polishing films that act upon the connector end-face. These should be easily removed and replaced. This minimizes contamination,increases connector output and maximizes polishing film life.

6. Polishing Motion - A key element of a high quality polishing system is the motion of the surface that performs the polishing. If the polishing action is not balanced evenly from all sides, connector performance will suffer and costs will increase because of rejected material and excessively rapid wear of the polishing films. To obtain consistent high quality results, the machine must provide an orbital polishing motion - a circular oscillation.

7. Can the Machine perform Angle Polishes - Though new polishing techniques, such as MPC (Maximum Physical Contact), allow PC finished connectors to achieve APC (Angled Physical Contact) results, the need to perform angle polishing is a must. Angle polishing (typically polished to 8 degree) is necessary when Backrelection readings of <-65dB are demanded.

A polisher should offer the option to polish connectors Flat, with a PC finish, or an APC finish. Different machines should not be purchased for different types of polishes. A quality polisher will have the capability to perform all types of polishing.

8. A "Recipe" for meeting the standards - Standards for today's connectors are stringent. It is important that the machine manufacturer provides, along with a good, preferably illustrated operation manual, specific polishing "recipes" for obtaining the connector specifications (described in the section below) - and, that you have open lines of communication with the manufacturer to keep you up to date in this developing technology.

Polished - end acceptance criteria for fiber optic connectors

Within the communications field, high standards are needed for Telephone transmission and even higher standards for CATV transmission - with the apparent movement to the higher standards being influenced by the logic of using telephone lines for CATV. Singlemode connectors are used to assure optimal results - and these optimal results are a function of the quality of the polished connector end - face surfaces - specifically, these are the measurable performance characteristics that are controlled in connector polishing. the characteristics that a polishing machine must provide are:

1. Backreflection
2. Insertion Loss
3. Apex Offset
4. Radius of Curvature
5. Fiber Undercut/ Protrusion
6. Connector End - face Inspection

Polishing Techniques

Critical to proper polishing is the applied process - the technique - that result in meeting the various specifications.

The following is a list of polishing techniques for singlemode & multimode polishing.

Fiber polishing is as much a science as it is an art. The science of polishing is crystallized in a well designed machine while the art of polishing reside in the procedure and the continuous effort for improvement by the individual user. The procedure and the training are just as valuable as the polishing machine. Therefore, the buyer of a polisher is really buying both the hardware and the know-how of the polisher company. So do not just select the right machine, select the right company.

Simplex And Duplex Fiber Optic Cables

It is important to understand the different varieties of core characteristics that are available within the fiber optic cabling itself, as each of these different characteristics will have different effects on your ability to transmit information reliably. Have a look at the most common fiber optics cores used in the industry nowadays.

Simplex optical fiber Cable

Simplex means this cable is with only one thread of fiber optic glass inside the single core. And simplex cables are with one single outer jacket. Simplex fiber optic cable is used in applications that only require one-way data transfer. For instance, an interstate trucking scale that sends the weight of the truck to a monitoring station or an oil line monitor that sends data about oil flow to a central location. There are singlemode and simplex multimode fiber optic cable available. Single-mode simplex fiber optic cable is a great option for anyone setting up a cable network that will require data to travel in one direction over long distances. Since this type of cable only carries one ray of light at a time, it’s better for long-distance transmissions. Single-mode fiber itself has a high-carrying capacity, is very reliable, and has lower power consumption than other options.

Analog to digital data readouts, interstate highway sensor relays, and automated speed and boundary sensors (for sports applications) are all great uses of Simplex fiber optic cable. This form of fiber cable can be cheaper than Duplex cables, because less material is involved. Simplex cable is compatible with any HDMI extender.

Duplex Fiber Optic Cables

Duplex fiber cable can be regarded as two simplex cables, either single mode or multimode, having their jackets conjoined by a strip of jacket material, usually in a zipcord (side-by-side) style. Use duplex multimode or singlemode fiber optic cable for applications that require simultaneous, bi-directional data transfer(One fiber transmits data one direction; the other fiber transmits data in the opposite direction). Duplex fiber is available in singlemode and multimode.

Duplex Fiber Cable and Singlemode duplex cable alike are used for two-way data transfers. Larger workstations, switches, servers, and major networking hardware tends to require duplex fiber optic cable. Duplex cables can be more expensive than Simplex cables, and are compatible with any HDMI extender.

Simplex and duplex are with various cable structure types; they are different from single mode and multi mode which are related to fiber optic glass types.

Multi Fiber Cables

Both multi fiber cables and simplex cables are with a single outer jacket, but simplex only has one thread fiber glass inside the core, while multi fiber has many threads of fiber optic glass inside the core. For example, an 8-core multi fiber cable. There are ribbon type and bundle type multi fiber cables.

Single-mode fiber cables and multi-mode fiber cables are similar in many ways, with the main difference being that the glass center of single-mode cables is significantly smaller, at about 10 microns in diameter. The smaller size is what allows these cables to transmit data up to 40 miles with a bandwidth of 1Gbs.

Only need a simplex fiber cable if data will be traveling in one direction, such as with a security camera or truck weigh station. And if your data will be traveling a long distance – for instance between buildings or from one station to another – then you’re better off with a single-mode fiber cable.

How Much Do You Know About OADM

The OADM, or optical add drop multiplexer, is a gateway into and out of a single mode fiber. In practice, most signals pass through the device, but some would be “dropped” by splitting them from the line. Signals originating at that point can be “added” into the line and directed to another destination. An OADM may be considered to be a specific type of optical cross-connect, widely used in wavelength division multiplexing systems for multiplexing and routing fiber optic signals. They selectively add and drop individual or sets of wavelength channels from a dense wavelength division multiplexing (DWDM) multi-channel stream. OADMs are used to cost effectively access part of the bandwidth in the optical domain being passed through the in-line amplifiers with the minimum amount of electronics.

OADMs have passive and active modes depending on the wavelength. In passive OADM, the add and drop wavelengths are fixed beforehand while in dynamic mode, OADM can be set to any wavelength after installation. Passive OADM uses WDM Filters, fiber gratings, and planar waveguides in networks with WDM systems. Dynamic OADM can select any wavelength by provisioning on demand without changing its physical configuration. It is also less expensive and more flexible than passive OADM. Dynamic OADM is separated into two generations.

A typical OADM consists of three stages: an optical demultiplexer, an optical multiplexer, and between them a method of reconfiguring the paths between the optical demultiplexer, the optical multiplexer and a set of ports for adding and dropping signals. The optical demultiplexer separates wavelengths in an input fiber onto ports. The reconfiguration can be achieved by a cross connect patch panel or by optical switches which direct the wavelengths to the optical multiplexer or to drop ports. The optical multiplexer multiplexes the wavelength channels that are to continue on from demultipexer ports with those from the add ports, onto a single output fiber.

Physically, there are several ways to realize an OADM. There are a variety of demultiplexer and multiplexer technologies including thin film filters, fiber Bragg gratings with optical circulators, free space grating devices and integrated planar arrayed waveguide gratings. The switching or reconfiguration functions range from the manual fiber patch panel to a variety of switching technologies including microelectromechanical systems (MEMS), liquid crystal and thermo-optic switches in planar waveguide circuits.

CWDM and DWDM OADM provide data access for intermediate network devices along a shared optical media network path. Regardless of the network topology, OADM access points allow design flexibility to communicate to locations along the fiber path. CWDM OADM provides the ability to add or drop a single wavelength or multi-wavelengths from a fully multiplexed optical signal. This permits intermediate locations between remote sites to access the common, point-to-point fiber message linking them. Wavelengths not dropped, pass-through the OADM and keep on in the direction of the remote site. Additional selected wavelengths can be added or dropped by successive OADMS as needed.

FiberStore provides a wide selection of specialized OADMs for WDM system. Custom WDM solutions are also available for applications beyond the current product designs including mixed combinations of CWDM and DWDM.

10 Gigabit Transceivers And Cables

In computer networks, 10 Gigabit Ethernet refers to various technologies for transmitting Ethernet frames at a rate of 10 gigabits per second (10×109 or 10 billion bits per second), first defined by the IEEE 802.3ae-2002 standard. 10-Gigabit Connections For 10-Gigabit Ethernet cabling the fiber options are very similar. The transceivers are somewhat different, as is some nomenclature. New possibilities have evolved for copper connections.

Transceivers
Standards bodies initially offered several options for the 10-Gigabit transceiver. 10G transceivers series include QSFP+ Transceiver, XFP Transceiver, SFP+ Transceiver, XENPAK module Transceiver and X2 Transceiver. The one that ultimately evolved as most popular in commercial data center usage was the SFP+ transceiver. The Cisco 10GBASE SFP+ modules offer customers a wide variety of 10 Gigabit Ethernet connectivity options for data center, enterprise wiring closet, and service provider transport applications.

Cisco SFP-10G-SR
The Cisco 10GBASE-SR Module supports a link length of 26m on standard Fiber Distributed Data Interface (FDDI)-grade multimode fiber (MMF). It is 10GBase SR compliant and work at 850nm, this transceiver is in standards SFP+ package to plug into the ports or slots on Cisco equipment, optical interface is duplex LC connector. Using 2000MHz*km MMF (OM3), up to 300m link lengths are possible. Using 4700MHz*km MMF (OM4), up to 400m link lengths are possible.

Cisco SFP-10G-SR-X
The Cisco SFP-10G-SR-X is a 10GBASE-SR module for extended operating temperature range. It supports a link length of 26m on standard Fiber Distributed Data Interface (FDDI)-grade multimode fiber (MMF). Using 2000MHz*km MMF (OM3), up to 300m link lengths are possible. Using 4700MHz*km MMF (OM4), up to 400m link lengths are possible.

Cisco SFP-10G-LRM
The Cisco 10GBASE-LRM Module supports link lengths of 220m on standard Fiber Distributed Data Interface (FDDI) grade multimode fiber (MMF). To ensure that specifications are met over FDDI-grade, OM1 and OM2 fibers, the transmitter should be coupled through a mode conditioning patch cord. No mode conditioning patch cord is required for applications over OM3 or OM4. The Cisco 10GBASE-LRM Module also supports link lengths of 300m on standard single-mode fiber (SMF, G.652).

Cisco FET-10G
The Cisco FET-10G Fabric Extender Transceiver support link lengths up to 100m on laser-optimized OM3 or OM4 multimode fiber. It is supported on fabric links only from a Nexus 2000 to a Cisco parent switch.

Cisco SFP-10G-LR
The Cisco 10GBASE-LR Module is single mode, supports a link length of 10 kilometers on standard single-mode fiber (SMF, G.652).

Cisco SFP-10G-LR-X
The Cisco SFP-10G-LR-X is a multirate 10GBASE-LR, 10GBASE-LW and OTU2/OTU2e module for extended operating temperature range. It supports a link length of 10 kilometers on standard single-mode fiber (SMF, G.652).

Cisco SFP-10G-ER
The Cisco 10GBASE-ER Module supports a link length of up to 40 kilometers on standard single-mode fiber (SMF, G.652).

Cisco SFP-10G-ZR
The Cisco SFP-10G-ZR is a multirate 10GBASE-ZR, 10GBASE-ZW and OTU2/OTU2e module. It supports link lengths of up to about 80 kilometers on standard single-mode fiber (SMF, G.652). This interface is not specified as part of the 10 Gigabit Ethernet standard and is instead built according to Cisco specifications.

10GbE supports both copper and fiber cabling. However, due to its higher bandwidth requirements, higher-grade copper cables are required: category 6A or Class F/Cat 7 Ethernet cable price for links up to 100m. Unlike previous Ethernet standards, 10 gigabit Ethernet defines only full duplex point-to-point links which are generally connected by network switches. Half duplex operation and hubs do not exist in 10GbE.

Benefits From LSZH Jacked Cables

If protection of equipment or people is a design requirement, consider low-smoke zero-halogen (LSZH) jacketed cables. They emit fewer toxic fumes than standard PVC-based cable jackets. Typically, halogen free cables is used in confined spaces such as mining operations where ventilation is of concern.

What is the difference between LSZH cable and common cables?

The function and technique parameter of LSZH fiber optic cable is just like common fiber optic cables, and inner structure is also similar, the basic difference is the jackets. LSZH fiber optic jackets is more fire-resistant compared with common PVC jacketed cables, even when they are caught in fire, the burned LSZH cables provide low smoke and no halogen substances, this feature is not only environment protective but the low smoke when it got burned is also important to people and facilities in the fired place.

LSZH jacket is made up of some very special materials which are non-halogenated and flame retardant. LSZH cable jacketing is composed of thermoplastic or thermoset compounds that emit limited smoke and no halogen when exposed to high sources of heat. LSZH cable reduces the amount of harmful toxic and corrosive gas emitted during combustion. This type of material is typically used in poorly ventilated areas such as aircraft or rail cars. LSZH jackets are also safer than Plenum-rated cable jackets which have low flammability but still release toxic and caustic fumes when they are burned.

Low smoke zero halogen is becoming very popular and, in some cases, a requirement where the protection of people and equipment from toxic and corrosive gas is critical. This type of cable is ever involved in a fire very little smoke is produced making this cable an excellent choice for confined places such as ships, submarines, aircraft, high-end server rooms and network centers.

Every coin has two sides. Since LSZH cables have so many benefits listed above, what are the Cons of the cable?

1. LSZH is more susceptible to jacket cracking. Special lubricants have been made to minimize damage during installation.

2. LSZH jacket has a high filler content, around 50% to provide the required flame and smoke performance. This results in a lower mechanical, chemical resistance, water absorption and electrical properties then non LSZH compounds.

3. The current generation of LSZH cables has not yet established a proven history of long time performance.

The LSZH cables are available with 1, 2, 12, 24 fibers, and variable sub-cable dimensions that support specific termination and routing requirements. They are suitable for halogen free and many international installations. LSZH cable contains no flooding gel and is OFNR Riser rated, is perfect for installation in conduits between buildings and run directly thru risers to a convenient network or dome fiber optic splice closure without a separate point of splice at building entrance.

There are also LSZH fiber optic patch cords available. Both LSZH fiber optic cables and LSZH fiber optic patch cords are required for the Rosh compliant cable assemblies, but Rosh standard is more strict besides it require the cables to be LSZH type. LSZH fiber optic patch cords are used widely used in the places where expensive equipment would be damaged if exposed to corrosive gases, and they are also used in crowded areas like commercial centers and sports centers.

High-speed Fiber Optical Transceiver Promoting The Development Of Optical Engine

Mature plug-in package transeivers like 10Gbps XFP module continue to evolve. Transmode in its system integrated XFP-based tunable lasers, called tunable XFP which has important advantages. Opposite to the Menara Networks, integrated the system function to XFP commonly only for line card.

XFP With New Uses

Until now, the deployment of fixed wavelength DWDM XFP means that the system supplier must possess considerable amount of inventory to prepare for operators to deploy new DWDM wavelengths needed.

If there is no inventory, system vendors must order transceivers to the supplier only after waiting for customers to confirm the wavelength, which implies the delivery period of 12-18 weeks. While the use of tunable XFP, just a transceiver can meet the wavelength planning requirements for all operators.

In addition, the optical property of XFP is only slightly after 10 Gbps 300-pin SFF MSA, which only has “2-3dB optical signal-to-noise ratio advantage, means the need for a longer rate to make signal through more optical amplifiers”. Increasing the total achievable rate using the 300 pin packages are available in the 1000km without the use of repeaters.

MSA power and space specifications (such as XFP) are important for component supplier?

It appears important only in a demand. For example, the maximum rated power of XFP is 3.5W, if you use a tunable XFP, a thermoelectric cooler is occupied 1.5-2W, lasers occupy 0.5W, TIA occupied a part, then left to the modulator driver there is not much left.

At the same time, Menara Networks has implemented the optical transmission network (OTN) of ITU-T in the XFP application in the form of specific integrated circuit (ASIC). OTN used in adding optical performance monitoring function and transmitting error correction, at the same time, for signal transmission package. Through the integration of OTN in the plug-in package, package, the functions of signal package, achievable rate and optical signal management can be added to the IP routers and carrier Ethernet switch routers. This design has several advantages: the elimination of the needs of using additional 10 Gbps transponder to transmit switch or router signal (for DWDM transmission), and allows system suppliers to develop universal card without support OTN. But the biggest technical problem for Menara is the development of the included software rather than the development of OTN ASIC.

Plug-in type and Optical Engine

CFP is applicable to the data center, but the high density applications such as link switch and high performance computing require a more compact design, such as QSFP, CXP and the so-called optical engine.

QSFP is favored interface by the active cable, also is one of the alternative options for copper interconnects. The QSFP transceiver support Quad Data Rate (QDR) 4xInfiniband, can extend the copper cable 4×10 Gbps Ethernet achievable rate of outside 7m. It is also one of the options for more compact 40 GbE short distance interface.

Achieving 100 GbE in QSFP is also a problem, because how to meet the QSFP power limits while adding a 25 Gbps / channel interface and a number of high-speed lasers is quite a headache problem, may need a intermediate package of level definition.

While CXP is a front panel interface can realize more intensive interface in the data center, is particularly useful for the links between chassis. According to Avago Technologies, the Infiniband is the first target market for CXP, but before CXP transceiver applied in the 100 GbE Ethernet there are several technical problems need to solve, for example, to meet the requirements of IEEE optical specifications.

For optical engine, for example, SNAP12 parallel optical module can be used to connect a plurality of platforms of large-scale IP router configurations, as well as for high-end computing. However, this module is not a plug-in package, is composed of 12 independent channel transmitter and receiver modules, with 6.25 Gbps / channel data rate.

CXP and SNAP12 own self-advantages, such as SNAP12 located on the motherboard and its small package makes it possible to set up next to the ASIC. For those who use optical engine to reduce the cost of parallel interface and meet the requirement of high-speed interface between the motherboard, frame and system, this kind of method just fits its meaning.

100 GbE as well as the arrival of more high-speed era, plus 25 Gbps electric interface will further promote the development of optical engine. But in the standard FR4 printed circuit board to route 10 Gbps is very difficult, and longer link (up to 10 inches) need to use pre-emphasis, electronic dispersion compensation and retiming techniques.

Fiber optical transceiver module may be deal with the surge network traffic, but the functions like link platforms, panels and board equipments are the play space where fiber optical transceiver supplier can achieve product differentiation.

General View Of Fiber Optic Pigtails

Fiber optic technology has revolutionized the way the communication can be handled in a more efficient and faster manner. Fiber Pigtail is a piece of optical cable with connectors only on one side of the cable and a length of exposed fiber at the other end. It is as simple as that. Due to its small size, it can fit for being put inside the fiber optic patch panel boxes or fiber optic splicing enclosures.

Fiber pigtails types are dependent on the connector types and the fiber optic cable. Usually the fiber optic pigtail is with 0.9mm outer diameter cable. Pigtails are usually used inside the fiber optic management equipment, the connectors on the pigtail can link to the adapter or other devices, the other end of the pigtail which does not contain the connectors, is stripped back and fusion spliced to another single fiber, by melting together the fiber glasses, it can reach a minimum insertion loss. This is done easy in field with a multi-fiber trunk to break out the multi-fiber cable into its component for connection to the end equipment.

There are pigtail single mode and pigtail multimode, which can be with various types of fiber optic terminations such as SC, FC, ST, LC, MU, MT-RJ, MTP, MPO, etc. Pigtails can have female or male connectors. Female connectors could be mounted in a patch panel, often in pairs although single-fiber solutions exist, to allow them to be connected to endpoints or other fiber runs with patch fibers. Alternatively they can have male connectors and plug directly into an optical transceiver.

Fiber optic pigtail Specifications:
Types: single mode, multimode;
Terminations: FC, SC, ST, MU, LC, D4, DIN, E2000, MT-RJ, MPO, SMA, E2000, FDDI, and ESCON;
Insertion Loss (dB): less than 0.2 (PC and UPC);
Exchangeability: less than 0.2 dB;
Tensile Strength: less than 0.2 dB (0 to15 kgf);
Temp. Range: (- 40 to +80 degree centigrade).

What is the difference between the fiber optic connector, fiber patch cable and pigtail?
Fiber optic connector is used for connecting fiber. Fiber optic patch cords used to do the patch cord from the equipment to the fiber optic cabling link. Pigtail is welding and connecting to other fiber optic cable core, often appear in the fiber optic terminal box, used to connect fiber optic cable and fiber optic transceivers (also used in the coupler, fiber optic patch cords, etc.).

FiberStore offers the single-mode 9/125, multimode 10Gb 50/125, multimode 62.5/125 and multimode 50/125 types fiber optic pigtails. They are with various SC, FC, ST, LC, MU, MT-RJ, MTP, MPO, PC, UPC, and APC connectors respectively. These fiber pigtails are available in simplex or duplex versions, custom design also available.

FX Networks Choose Infinera DTN-X for New Zealand Fiber Optic Network

Infinera, the owner and operator of a national selection of the Infinera DTN-X platform for its national wide network. With the features of 500 Gigabit per second (Gb/s) long haul super-channels, the Infinera DTN0-X platform is able to build a new network infrastructure which delivers 10, 40 and 100 Gigabit Ethernet (GbE) services to service providers and research and education networks.

FX Network, which is already operating a national inter-city optical transport network, has partnered with REANZ. New Zeanland's Research and Education Network, to build this new multi-terabit infrastructure. The agreement between the two parties includes joint investment and fiber sharing and should improve the ability of researchers and scientists across New Zealand to participate in data-intensive experiments, both with New Zealand and around the world.

The high capacity network also will benefit the existing and future business and ISP customers of FX Network via the availability of the 10GbE, 40GbE, and 100GbE services the network will support. Indiana says the DTN-X's super-channel capabilities, supported via its 500-Gbps photogenic integrated circuits (PICs), and intelligent software control will provide both high capacity and rapid service turn up.

"We are seeing burgeoning demand for high speed data services in New Zealand, impacted by the growing trend towards the use of cloud-based services and an insatiable demand for content from customers of the ISP's that rely on our backhaul services, " said David Heald, CEO at FX Network. "We expect this to continue and accelerate with the ongoing deployment f Ultra Fast Broadband (UFB) access services throughout most of New Zealand. The deployment of Infinera's DTN-X platform is a crucial part of our strategy to provide unintended, reliable, cost-effective data services between New Zealand's UFB Point of Interconnect, which are becoming the key locations for data aggregation in New Zealand."

"The partnership with FX Networks to deploy this massive optical network across New Zealand is a significant change in this country," said Steve Cotter, CEO of REANNZ. "With the Infinera supper-channels we will be able to offer up to 100GbE services providing our scientific community with the fasters network technology available today, putting them on a level playing field with the rest of the world."

"Infinera is pleased to work with our in-country partner Dimension Data to deliver and support this multi-terabit optical networks across New Zealand for FX Networks and REANNZ," said Andrew Bond Webster, VP Sales, APPAC, for Infinera. "The Intelligent Transport Network offers differentiated services while reducing operating costs through scale, multi-layer convergence and automation, enabling high-capacity services to be delivered quickly throughout the country."

Guide To Choose The Best Fiber Optic Cable Suits Your Application

Fiber optic cable is favored for today's high-speed data communications because it eliminates the problems of twisted-pair cable, such as near-end crosstalk (NEXT), electromagnetic interference (EMI), and security breaches. Fibre Optic Cable is the preferred option in the interconnecting links between floors or buildings, is the backbone of any structured cabling solution. While, making the right decisions when it comes to Data Network cabling is difficult as it can make a huge difference in the ability of your network to reliably support current and future requirements. There are many factors to consider and today I will guide you through the many options available and find the best one suits your application.

1. Multimode Fiber Cable Or Single-mode Fiber Cable

There are two basic types of fiber: mulitimode and single-mode. Both types consist of two basic components: the core and the cladding which traps the light in the core.

Multimode fiber cable

Multimode fiber, as the name suggests, permits the signal to travel in multiple modes, or pathways, along the inside of the glass strand or core. It is available with fiber core diameters of 62.5 and a slightly smaller 50 microns. The problem with multimode fiber optics is that long cable runs in multiple paths may lead to signal distortion. This can result in incomplete and unclear data transmission.

Applications covering short distances can use multimode fiber optic network cable. Ideal uses for such kinds of cables are within data center connections. Multimode cables are economical choices for such applications. There are various performance levels within the multimode fiber optic cable such as OM3 cable for distances within 300 m, OM4 cable supports Gigabit Ethernet distances within 550m and 10G applications.

Single-mode fiber cable

Single-mode fiber cables offer a higher transmission rate. These cables contain a tiny core that measures about five to ten microns. These tiny cores have the capacity to eliminate distortion and produce the highest transmission speeds. Single-mode fiber generally has a core that is 8.3 microns in diameter. Singlemode fiber requires laser technology for sending and receiving data. Although a laser is used, light in a single-mode fiber also refracts off the fiber cladding. The presence of high intensity lasers helps transfer data across large distances. Singlemode has the ability to carry a signal for miles.

Single mode is used for long haul or extreme bandwidth applications, gives you a higher transmission rate and up to 50 times more distance than multimode, but it also costs more. The small core and its single lightwave virtually eliminate any distortion that could result from overlapping light pulses, providing the least signal attenuation and highest transmission speeds of any fiber cable type.

The best choice to choose multimode optical cable when the transmission distance is less than 2km. In the other sides, use single-mode optical cable when the transmission is more than 2km. Although the core sizes of multimode and singlemode fiber differ, after the cladding and another layer for durability are applied, both fiber types end up with an outer diameter of about 250 microns. This makes it both more robust and easier to work with.

2. Indoor Cable Or Outdoor Cable

The major difference between indoor and outdoor cables is water blocking. Any conduit is someday likely to get moisture in it. Outdoor cables are designed to protect the fibers from years of exposure to moisture.

Indoor Cables

Indoor cables are what we call "tight-buffered" cables, where the glass fiber has a primary coating and secondary buffer coatings that enlarge each fiber to 900 microns—about 1mm or 1/25-inch—to make the fiber easier to work with. Indoor cables are flexible, and tough, containing multiple Tight Buffered or Unit Cord fibers.

Types Of Indoor cables available

Simplex and Zip Cord: Simplex Fiber Optic Cables are one fiber, tight-buffered (coated with a 900 micron buffer over the primary buffer coating) with Kevlar (aramid fiber) strength members and jacketed for indoor use. The jacket is usually 3mm (1/8 in.) diameter. Zipcord is simply two of these joined with a thin web. It's used mostly for patch cord and backplane applications, but zipcord can also be used for desktop connections. They are commonly used in patch cord and backplane applications. Additionally, they can be utilized for desktop connections. These cables only have one fiber and are generally used indoors.

Distribution cables: They contain several tight-buffered fibers bundled under the same jacket with Kevlar strength members and sometimes fiberglass rod reinforcement to stiffen the cable and prevent kinking. These cables are small in size, and used for short, dry conduit runs, riser and plenum applications. The fibers are double buffered and can be directly terminated, but because their fibers are not individually reinforced, these cables need to be broken out with a "breakout box" or terminated inside a patch panel or junction box. The distribution cable is smaller and used in dry and short conduit runs, plenum and riser applications, is the most popular cable for indoor use.

Breakout cables: They are made of several simplex cables bundled together inside a common jacket for convenience in pulling and ruggedness. This is a strong, rugged design, but is larger and more expensive than the distribution cables. It is suitable for conduit runs, riser and plenum applications, is ideal for industrial applications where ruggedness is important or in a location where only one or two pieces of equipment (such as local hubs) need to be connected.

Outdoor Cables

Optical fiber in outdoor applications requires more protection from water ingress, vermin, and other conditions encountered underground. Outdoor cables also need increased strength for greater pulling distances. Buyers should know the potential hazards that the cables will face, for example, if the cables will be exposed to chemicals or extreme temperatures.

Loose Tube cables: These cables are composed of several fibers together inside a small plastic tube, which are in turn wound around a central strength member and jacketed, providing a small, high fiber count cable. This type of cable is ideal for outside plant trunking applications, as it can be made with loose tubes filled with gel or water absorbent powder to prevent harm to the fibers from water. Since the fibers have only a thin buffer coating, they must be carefully handled and protected to prevent damage. It can be used in conduits, strung overhead or buried directly into the ground.

Ribbon Cable: This cable offers the highest packing density, since all the fibers are laid out in rows, typically of 12 fibers, and laid on top of each other. This way 144 fibers only has a cross section of about 1/4 inch or 6mm! Some cable designs use a "slotted core" with up to 6 of these 144 fiber ribbon assemblies for 864 fibers in one cable! Since it's outside plant cable, it's gel-filled for water blocking.

Armored Cable: Cable installed by direct burial in areas where rodents are a problem usually have metal armored between two jackets to prevent rodent penetration. This means the cable is conductive, so it must be grounded properly. You'd better choose armored fiber cable when use cable directly buried outdoor.

Aerial Cable: They can be lashed to a messenger or another cable (common in CATV) or have metal or aramid strength members to make them self supporting. Aerial cables are for outside installation on poles.

The table below summarizes the choices, applications and advantages of each.

Cable Type	Application	Advantages
Distribution	Premises	Small size for lots of fibers, inexpensive
Breakout	Premises	Rugged, easy to terminate, no hardware needed
Loose Tube	Outside Plant	Rugged, gel or dry water-blocking
Armored	Outside Plant	Prevents rodent damage
Ribbon	Outside Plant	Highest fiber count for small size

All cables share some common characteristics. For example, they all include various plastic coatings to protect the fiber, from the buffer coating on the fiber itself to the outside jacket. All also include some strength members for pulling the cable without harming the fibers. Outdoor fiber optic cable has moisture protection, either a gel filling or a dry powder or tape. Direct-buried cables may have a layer of metal armor to prevent damage from rodents. It is advisable that you should customize your cable to make it suitable to your application when the quantity of fiber optic cables is large and also for the cost-effective reasons.

Knowing basic information about fiber optic cables make choosing the right one for the project a lot easier. It is always beneficial to konw more about fiber optic cables.

Twist Beam Can Improve The Fiber Information Carrying Capacity

FiberStore news, the latest research achievements from a research team in the United States show, encoding information through twist beam of different shape can improve the Internet "Information Super Highway" carrying capacity, which effectively alleviate the network congestion.

Internet traffic is growing exponentially, researchers have been trying to enhance the communication capacity of fiber optic cable. A successful method used in the past 20 years, basically is to rely on the more "lane", refers to use a different color or wavelength to transmit different signals. But just like in the real highway, since the amount of "lane" is increased, each width is narrower, so the data stream can only be mixed together.

From past few years, there are a number of research teams trying to get through the shape of light beam to encode the information, in order to ease network traffic congestion, the technology used the called light property of orbital angular momentum. Currently, the network signal is the use of straight spread light beam to transmit, but the specific filters can make the beam distortions in varying degrees in the process of moving. However, the experiments results using this effect are not ideal: different shapes of light beam often mix with each other in advance distance of less than 1 metre.

But now, researchers at Boston University and the University of Southern California cooperated, found a way to make the different shapes of light beam travel separately, the transmission distance reached a record of 1.1 km.

In the experiment, the researchers designed and built a 1.1 km long glass fiber cable, the cross section has a different refractive index (used to measure the travel speed of light in a specific medium). Then, they sent beam of winding and straight along the cable.

The research team found, light output and input can be matched, show that the various shapes beam does not appear mixed. Different refractive index significantly affects only a certain shape of beam, so these different shapes of beams are moving at different speeds in the cable. "This means we can keep them separate." Research team leader, Boston University Electrical Engineer Saida Si Rama Ramachandran said.

The researchers carried out several tests using beam of clockwise and counterclockwise with varying distortion degrees, and found there are about 10 different shapes of beams can be used to transmit information. The results are exciting, because every shapes may presage the "information highway" traffic is expected to reach a whole new level. Based on this, the data stream is is further divided into narrow "lane" according to the different colors, thereby maximize the flow.

However, the laboratory results applied to real world still need time, in part because the current Internet fiber optic cable only transport straight beams. Ramachandran said, a more direct goal, may be used in server farm between servers by some large network companies like Facebook, install cables which can transmit twisted beam in short distance.

Infonetics: 16G Fibre Channel Leads High-performance Interconnect Market

Market research firm Infonetics Research forecasts that the SAN and high-performance interconnect market will top $9 billion by 2017, with the high-performance interconnect segment gaining around as 10G Gigabit Ethernet (GE), 10GE and 100GE transport become the norm for networking within the data center.

Nevertheless, the leading manufacturers in the SAN and high performance interconnect markets all had a down quarter in 1Q13, according to Infonetics.

"While most SAN equipment languished in the 1st quarter of 2013, 16G Fibre Channel switches put up a very strong showing," notes Michael Howard, Infonetics Research's co-founder and principal analyst for carrier networks. "Sales of chassis 16G Fibre Channel switches grew 45%, and fixed switches more than doubled from the previous quarter."

Worldwide revenues for SAN equipment, including Fibre Channel switches and ISCSI and Fiber Channel host bus adapters, also declined to $604 million in 1Q13, an 8% drop from 4Q12.

Howard adds, "The bulk of 16G Fibre Channel deployments continue to be inter-switch link applications, but with server input/output capabilities rising with the introduction of Intel's Romley, and with Emulex's and QLogic's first 16G Fibre Channel fiber adapter shipments, we expect a more meaningful adoption of 16G for server connections to begin in 2013."

The initial pent-up demand that provided a jump start for 16G Fibre Channel switches is still in motion, but Infonetics believes it will soon slow and settle into a growth pattern more in line with the 8G segment of the market.

SAN MARKET HIGHLIGHTS

1. Worldwide revenue for SAN equipment, including Fibre Channel switches and iSCSI and Fibre Channel host bus adapters, declined to $604 million in 1Q13, an 8% drop from 4Q12

2. The initial pent-up demand that provided a jump start for 16G Fibre Channel switches is still in motion, but Infonetics believes it will soon slow and settle into a growth pattern more in line with the 8G segment

3. On the heels of huge growth in 2012, the global high-performance interconnect equipment market, including converged FCoE/Ethernet switches and converged network adapters, slumped 13% sequentially in 1Q13, but is up 45% from the year-ago quarter

4. Infonetics forecasts the SAN and high-performance interconnect (HPI) equipment market to top $9 billion by 2017, with the HPI segment gaining as 10GE, 40GE and 100GE transports become the norm for networking within the data center

5. The leading fiber optic manufacturer in the SAN and high-performance interconnect markets all had a down quarter in 1Q13

Infonetics' quarterly SAN report provides worldwide and regional market size, vendor market share, forecasts through 2017, trends and analysis for chassis and fixed Fibre Channel switches; Fibre Channel and iSCSI host bus adapters; chassis and fixed converged FCoE and Ethernet switches; and converged network adapters. Companies tracked: Alcatel-Lucent, Brocade, Chelsio, Cisco, Dell, Emulex, IBM (BNT), Juniper, Mellanox, QLogic and others.

The 100G Industry Chain Still Needs To Improve

FiberStore news, with the outbreak of emerging businesses such as high-definition video, social games, cloud computing and Internet of things, explosive growth of Internet content, so that the needs of next generation of Ethernet is increasing. Although the 40G/100G standards have been promulgated, the demand is also constantly stimulated, operators also verified the 100G with a commercial ability, but its scale popularity seems to have a distance, especially for 100G. What is the reason hindering the popularization, in technically what need to improve? When can really go the way of 100G?

The too high cost hinders 100G popularity And market maturity needs 3 years

China Telecom Technology Committee Director Wei Leping said, to achieve the scale of promotion, the cost of 100G applications should be controlled at as 5-6 times as the cost of 10G, there is a certain distance currently. Ruijie experts said, from the point of the cost of optical transceiver, 100G module costs several times higher than the cost of 10G transceiver. It also requires the upstream and downstream of the industrial chain complement each other, continue working hard in chip integration, integration of optical module miniaturization and system design, to achieve cost reduction of the overall product. In addition, the architecture design of network manufacturers are also important factors, the role of the scale cost reduction such as supporting cables, wiring and tools also can not be ignored.

Overall, the 40G and 100G markets are in the early stage of market, but in contrast, the growth rate of 40G is faster than 100G, for example, Ruijie has made a considerable number of 40G commercial cases.

While the 100G standard has completed, but there are still not small challenges in the core of the optical module/high-speed signal processing technology, 100G commercial products also just launched by manufacturers. Therefore, experts believe that, the mature of 100G market is expected to take at least three years.

As we all know, the optical module technology cost is the key of the whole 100G system cost. But the 100G optical module devices are mainly controlled by foreign companies, although there are some Chinese enterprises introduced the 100G optical modules, but the quantity is too small, which virtually increases the 100G system cost.

There are still defects in technical and need to further improve the industrial chain

The 100G industrial chain including chip, optical devices, router to optical transmission system, and even the deployment, but the current situation is that, in the fiber optic module, the high-end core technology are basically controlled by foreign countries. Many experts said, the Chinese module makers have not domestic semiconductor chip production technology,  no continuous wavelength tunable lasers and high-end modulator chip, the manufacturer can do 100G optical devices is rare. Although there are more and more manufacturers to join this camp now, but many companies just re-processing of imported products, the lack of core technology, so there is no competition.

In addition to the short supply and not enough maturity of chip, optical devices and so on, some experts pointed out, the 100G industry chain supporting needs to be further improved, not only because the 100G optical network construction was just started, but also because the development of the 100G still faces challenges from the technology and market, for example, still exist cognitive gap in the line, construction, adjusting and testing, industry chain parties need to work together.

40/100G complement each other

Demand determines the market. From the current applications, in addition to some large data centers, the vast majority applications do not need the 100G bandwidth now, the bandwidth of 40G is sufficient; while the 40G products are more cost-effective than 100G products, and is expected to last a period of time, so the 40G products develop more smoothly than 100G in the moment. But apparently, the scene requires higher performance is relatively urgent demand for 100G, typical scenes such as super computing, cluster computing, etc. In the future, 40G and 100G will complement each other, service users in different application scenarios.

Fiber Optic Is The Trend In Networks Compared With Copper

Fiber optics is a hot trend in today’s world of communication network, which is a technology that uses glass (or plastic) threads (fibers) to transmit large amount of data. In recent years it has become apparent that fiber-optics are now replacing copper wires as the best means of communication signal transmission. They span the long distances more easily and provide backbones for many communication networks. Why fiber optic is gradually replacing copper networks, we first should konw the pros and cons of copper.

Pros and cons of copper

Telephone companies have long used copper lines, while the cable television companies have relied on coaxial cable for TV, Internet, and VoIP(Voice over Internet Phone) telephone service. Both industries now are making increased use of fiber, hybrid fiber-copper, or hybrid fiber-coaxial cable lines.

The benefit of the old copper service is that, unlike fiber and hybrid-fiber lines, it carries not only the voice and data signals but also the power to operate a standard, non-cordless telephone. The phone company itself provides that power, which often keeps the phones working even when a problem at the power company knocks out electric service.

But traditional copper telephone lines can’t handle the large amount of data required for television and high-speed Internet services, especially over long distances. Although advanced techniques can enhance copper’s capabilities and most other companies are installing fiber or hybrid fiber lines, in some cases alongside the copper ones. We’ve found that telephone and cable company terms and conditions typically warn customers that these systems can’t maintain phone service indefinitely during a power failure, if at all.

The problem is greatest with cable company VoIP services and with systems that use fiber lines all the way to the home. It can be less of a concern with hybrid copper-fiber systems, in which copper lines carry the signal the last mile or so to the home. In those systems, carriers can maintain phone power by installing batteries and generators at the point where the fiber meets the copper.

Why Use Fiber Optic? Is Copper Really Cheaper Than Fiber?

Telcos use fiber to connect all their central offices and long distance switches because it has thousands of times the bandwidth of copper wire and can carry signals hundreds of times further before needing a repeater. The CATV companies use fiber because it give them greater reliability and the opportunity to offer new services, like phone service and Internet connections. Both telcos and CATV operators use fiber for economic reasons, but their cost justification requires adopting new network architectures to take advantage of fiber’s strengths.

When it comes to the cost, fiber optic is always considered to be more expensive than copper cabling. Whatever you look at – cable, fiber termination kit or networking electronics – fiber costs more. So isn’t it obvious that Fiber Optic Network is more expensive than copper? Maybe not! Looking at the cabling component costs may be not a good way to analyze total network costs. A properly designed premises cabling network can also be less expensive.

Introduction To Fiber Optic Couplers

A fiber optic coupler is a device used in fiber optic systems with single or more input fibers and single or several output fibers, which is different from WDM  devices. WDM multiplexer and demultiplexer divide the different wavelength fiber light into different channels, while fiber optic couplers divide the light power and send it to different channel.

Bandwidth
Most types of couplers work only in a limited range of wavelength (a limited bandwidth), since the coupling strength is wavelength-dependent (and often also polarization-dependent). This is a typical property of those couplers where the coupling occurs over a certain length. Typical bandwidths of fused couplers are a few tens of nanometers. In high-power fiber lasers and amplifiers, multimode fiber couplers are often used for combining the radiation of several laser diodes and sending them into inner cladding of the active fiber.

Structure
A basic fiber optic coupler has N input ports and M output ports. N and M typically range from 1 to 64. M is the number of input ports (one or more). N is the number of output ports and is always equal to or greater than M. The number of input ports and output ports vary depending on the intended application for the coupler.

Light from an input fiber can appear at one or more outputs, with the power distribution potentially depending on the wavelength and polarization. Such couplers can be fabricated in different ways:
Some couplers use side-polished fibers, providing access to the fiber core;
Couplers can also be made from bulk optics, for example in the form of microlenses and beam splitters, which can be coupled to fibers (“fiber pig-tailed”).

Types
Fiber optic couplers can either be passive or active devices. Passive fiber optic couplers are simple fiber optic components that are used to redirect light waves. Passive couplers either use micro-lenses, graded-refractive-index (GRIN) rods and beam splitters, optical mixers, or splice and fuse the core of the optical fibers together. Active fiber optic couplers require an external power source. They receive input signals, and then use a combination of fiber optic detectors, optical-to-electrical converters, and light sources to transmit fiber optic signals.

Types of fiber optic couplers include optical splitters, optical combiners, X couplers, star couplers, and tree couplers. The device allows the transmission of light waves through multiple paths.

Fused couplers are used to split optical signals between two fibers, or to combine optical signals from two fibers into one fiber. They are constructed by fusing and tapering two fibers together. This method provides a simple, rugged, and compact method of splitting and combining optical signals. Typical excess losses are as low as 0.2dB, while splitting ratios are accurate to within ±5 percent at the design wavelength. The devices are bi-directional, and offer low backreflection. The technique is best suited to singlemode and multimode couplers.

Choices for fiber optic coupler also include Single window narrow band, Single window Wide band, and Dual window Wide band fiber optic coupler. Single window fiber optic coupler is with one working wavelength. Dual window fiber optic coupler is with two working wavelength. For Single mode fiber, is optimized for 1310 nm and 1550 nm; For Multimode fiber, is optimized for 850 nm and 1310 nm.

Connectors Are Termination Of Cables And Other Applications

Fiber optic connector is a mechanical device mounted on the end of a fiber optic cable, light source, receiver, or housing, the connector allows these devices to be mated to a similar device. Of the many different connector types, connectors for both glass fiber cable and plastic fiber optic cable are available. The terminal ends of all fiber cable strands shall be field connectorized. It is IST’s practice to terminate both ends of all fibers within a fiber cable with ST, epoxy and polish style connectors. Termination of older cables may be of several types including mechanical or fusion spliced pigtails.

There are a number of connector styles on the market including LC, FC, MT-RJ, ST and SC, belong them the SC Connector is the most popular connectors. Manufacturers and distributors are more likely to have equipment to accommodate SC and ST style connectors than any other connector style. That should be a consideration when making product selections.

SC Connectors

SC connectors are used with single-mode and multimode fiber-optic cables. They offer low cost, simplicity, and durability. SC connectors provide for accurate alignment via their ceramic ferrules. An SC connector is a push-on, pull-off connector with a locking tab. Typical matched SC connectors are rated for 1000 mating cycles and have an insertion loss of 0.25 dB. From a design perspective, it is recommended to use a loss margin of 0.5 dB or the vendor recommendation for SC connectors.

FC Connectors

These connectors are used for single-mode and multimode fiber-optic cables. FC connectors offer extremely precise positioning of the fiber-optic cable with respect to the transmitter’s optical source emitter and the receiver’s optical detector. FC connectors feature a position locatable notch and a threaded receptacle. FC connectors are constructed with a metal housing and are nickel-plated. They have ceramic ferrules and are rated for 500 mating cycles. The insertion loss for matched FC connectors is 0.25 dB. From a design perspective, it is recommended to use a loss margin of 0.5 dB or the vendor recommendation for FC connectors.

ST Connectors

The ST Connector is a keyed bayonet connector and is used for both multimode and single-mode fiber-optic cables. It can be inserted into and removed from a fiber-optic cable both quickly and easily. Method of location is also easy. ST connectors come in two versions: ST and ST-II. These are keyed and spring-loaded. They are push-in and twist types. ST connectors are constructed with a metal housing and are nickel-plated. They have ceramic ferrules and are rated for 500 mating cycles. The typical insertion loss for matched ST connectors is 0.25 dB. From a design perspective, it is recommended to use a loss margin of 0.5 dB or the vendor recommendation for ST connectors.

LC Connectors

LC connectors are used with single-mode and multimode fiber-optic cables. The LC connectors are constructed with a plastic housing and provide for accurate alignment via their ceramic ferrules. LC connectors have a locking tab. LC connectors are rated for 500 mating cycles. The typical insertion loss for matched LC connectors is 0.25 dB. From a design perspective, it is recommended to use a loss margin of 0.5 dB or the vendor recommendation for LC connectors.

MT-RJ Connectors

MT-RJ connectors are used with single-mode and multimode fiber-optic cables. The MT-RJ connectors are constructed with a plastic housing and provide for accurate alignment via their metal guide pins and plastic ferrules. MT-RJ connectors are rated for 1000 mating cycles. The typical insertion loss for matched MT-RJ connectors is 0.25 dB for SMF and 0.35 dB for MMF. From a design perspective, it is recommended to use a loss margin of 0.5 dB or the vendor recommendation for MT-RJ connectors.

MTP/MPO Connectors

MTP/MPO connectors are used with single-mode and multimode fiber-optic cables. The MTP/MPO is a connector manufactured specifically for a multifiber ribbon cable. The MTP/MPO single-mode connectors have an angled ferrule allowing for minimal back reflection, whereas the multimode connector ferrule is commonly flat. The ribbon cable is flat and appropriately named due to its flat ribbon-like structure, which houses fibers side by side in a jacket. The typical insertion loss for matched MTP/MPO connectors is 0.25 dB. From a design perspective, it is recommended to use a loss margin of 0.5 dB or the vendor recommendation for MTP/MPO connectors.

There are also other types of connectors, have a wide seleciton of fiber connectors at FiberStore.

Verizon Considering the Acquisition of Canadian Carriers Wind Mobile

Summary: The U.S Verizon Communications will acquire Canadian carriers Wind Mobile, aiming to enter the Canadian wireless market.

According to the Global and Mail reports that the U.S Verizon Communications is considering to acquire a small mobile operator in Canada in order to enter the Canadian wireless market.

The report, citing unnamed sources, said the Canadian government wants all of the regional markets in the country with at least four major wireless carriers to enhance competition. It is considered by Canadian government that foreign investment struggle of the smaller operators as a way to ensure the competition.

Verizon has conducted exploratory talks with the Canadian Wind Mobile investors, as indicated by the reports, except Verizon, AT & T, Vodafone and Telenor are also potential investors.

Despite Wind and Mobilicity took low-cost market strategy, but the two companies are still not able to turn around. This two smaller operators are completing with larger mobile operators Telus, Bell Mobility and Rogers Communications. Mogilicity is trying to sell itself to Telus, but the government stop the deal with the excuse of that a smaller operators should not been annexed a big carriers. Canadian government has relaxed restrictions on foreign ownership to promote a more competitive wireless market, but the sale of Wind by VimpleCom has been treated in the sale of the government of Canada’s security concerns.

As reports shows, Verizon Wind and VimpelCom are all declined to make comment on it.

Sources said, Verizon will acquire Wind or Mobilicity, and participate in an upcoming spectrum auction. In theory, such a move would lead to more price competition, and put pressure on existing Canadian carriers. "Verizon is now certainly carefully consider this transaction." One source said.

Canadian wireless market has long been controlled by existing major carries. Earlier this month, the Canadia Radio and Television Commission (CRTC) have made some changes in regulatory policies designed to stimulate more competition. The regulatory agency sad, users can cancel the contract after two years of its wireless contract (in the past, the contract period is three years), it also set up an additional monthly data traffic upper limit beyond the package price cap and international data roaming tariff ceiling respectively, which are respectively $ 50 and $ 100, in order to prevent the emergence of a huge phone bill.

Source: FiberStore News

10Gigabit OM3 and OM4 Fiber Optic Cables

With network speed requirements continuing to increase, especially in high-demand industry sectors such as data centres and service providers, there has been a need for faster and more stable optical fiber infrastructure to support it. OM3 was the first standard to emerge, codifying laser optimization of multimode fiber. This technology was the first to allow designs of laser transmission systems utilizing multimode optical fiber without the use of mode conditioning patch cord. It allowed for 10 gigabyte transmissions. OM4 has stepped in due to the need of supporting longer range applications.

OM4 fiber cable plays a pivotal role in allowing the development of future-proof network solutions for high-demand applications. When coupled with fiber technologies such as the MTP connector, the capacity of OM4 to provide a large bandwidth overhead becomes a great advantage. With it being a newer standard it has also been designed with newer transmission standards in mind, such as the steady influx of 40G Ethernet and the eventual 100G Ethernet rollouts. Where OM3 will be able to support these technologies, OM4 will provide longer distance support for each development and therefore allow a considerably greater level of flexibility at a later stage when upgrade programs commence.

OM3 vs OM4

OM4 is capable of handling 10G Ethernet up to a distance of 400-550m (depending on module capability) where OM3 can only manage up to 300m. The benefit of this is that a single multimode cable run can be used for longer distances than before, removing the need to use more expensive single mode fibre and modules for such mid-sized runs as 500m. OM4 can tolerate a higher level of loss at distances between 200-300m as it is designed to operate at longer distances than OM3. It may be a more flexible option for network managers to install OM4 in these instances, even though OM3 can often manage, as the OM4 option will allow for greater loss due to lower quality terminations, splices or increased bends.

While OM3 fiber will still be future proof in most applications, allowing speeds of 10GB/s up to 100GB/s, OM4 fiber offers users longer long distances and more wiggle room in optical budgets.

OM3 and OM4 fiber cables are typically used in data center structured cabling environments running high speeds of 10G or even 40 or 100 Gigabit Ethernet, SAN (Storage Area Networking), Fiber Channel, FCOE (Fiber Channel Over Ethernet) with such manufacturers as Cisco, Brocade, EMC and others. Typical applications could be virtualization or internal cloud core data center applications.

10G multi-fiber cable assemblies are a necessity for any data center looking for high speed networking throughput. FiberStore provides the cable choice of OM4 OM3 10G fiber cables with standard and multi-fiber assemblies. FiberStore offers a full line of OM3 and OM4 product line. While FiberStore still able to supply the OM3 cable and OM4 fiber patch cables. Our line of multimode duplex fiber cables will be sure to enhance your data transmissions over at a longer distance and at higher data rates than you’ve previously experienced.

Benefit From Ethernet Media Converters

Networking solutions advance at an unbelievably quick charge with new and faster kinds of cables hitting theaters often. If you possess the community that utilizes the standard form of Ethernet wires and the other community which utilizes the greater quickly and far more reputable dietary fiber optic wires, it will be possible and better to connect all of them collectively having a special number of Fiber to Ethernet Converter.

To permit several networks which are utilizing various types of cabling to talk with each other, a brand new fiber optic Ethernet Media Converter attaches an Ethernet cable at one end into an optic wire on the fresh finish. Furthermore, it could be utilized inside exact same community if multiple computers are earning utilization of distinct technologies or otherwise all of them have the capability to utilize fibers optic wires.

Fiber optic cables are extremely resistant to interference through electronics, wireless systems, or mobile phones, in contrast to the much more unpredictable standard Ethernet wires which could usually lose their signal in the event that exposed to specific kinds of products. This is the primary reason this is a smart decision to transform Ethernet wires to fibers optic wires, as it supplies a quicker signal than Ethernet is capable of doing delivering or receiving.

Some fiber converters will function using any sort of Ethernet cable tv whilst others have only ports of either the exact 100 megabit or the 10 Gigabit speed Ethernet wires, such as the 10 Gigabit Ethernet converters. The maximum speed at which information is ready to become transferred at around the quicker type of cable tv may slightly be lowered whenever a converter is connected among two numerous types of converter cables. Varied brands and kinds of converters like Cisco in addition to HP will have diverse velocity caps.

Ethernet Media Converters are obtainable in assorted sizes. Some are especially designed for the size of your home or office network. Nearly all converters are made of small plastic units that are meant to change a single Ethernet cable tv to an exclusive dietary fiber optic cable television. Greater converters can be found. They’ve the capability to be able to convert a large number of cabling at once and therefore are attached directly onto the metal rack. Just be sure they are positioned within a guaranteed community room

Fiber Media Converters should be included in a secure location so they cannot be disturbed through folks or machinery. In case of the converter is removed or perhaps broken, each pc coupled to the fiber optic cable might lose its Internet connection. Special care must be given to these community options. In addition, you need to maintain converters in managed temperature rooms that by no means get to less well as to cold because of the fact they include unique materials that merely get the job done correctly in a few conditions.

Fiber optic cables that continue to function after being converted coming from an Ethernet cable tv have a range that’s assessed in miles. Thus, huge companies with massive networks or net service suppliers make the most of Ethernet Media converters. And, soluble fiber optics can greatly extend serialized communication reach, and also the necessary adapters and converters are usually inexpensive, dependable, and readily available.

While Fiber Media Converters are employed in the Ethernet-based system, serial data communication is not limited to distance anymore. Ethernet Media Converters can effortlessly deal with 10BaseT/100BaseT/1000BaseT rates and gigabit-ready converters are obtainable too. Take benefit of this innovative networking technology right now.