What is Multi Mode Fiber?

Multi-mode fiber is a type of fiber optic cable which is thick enough for light to follow several paths through the code.

Multi-mode fiber is best suited for use in short lengths, such as those used in Local Area Networks (LANs) and Storage Area Networks (SANs).

Multi-mode fiber comes in two standard widths, 62.5 micron and 50 micron. A micron is one millionth of a meter.

62.5 micron multi-mode fiber can support Gigabit Ethernet over distances as long as 275 meters; 50 micron multi-mode fiber can increase that range to 550 meters

The opposite of multi-mode fiber is single-mode fiber.

Multi-mode fiber is easier to work with than single-mode fiber. The fiber is larger and the tolerances required are much lower.

Multi-mode fiber is sometimes abbreviated as MMF.

Books on Fiber Optics

Fiber Optic Installer's Field Manual

Fiber Optic Installers Field Manual is a step-by-step field guide for fiber optic cable installation. Bob Chomycz's put-it-in-your-pocket-and-go Fiber Optic Installer's Field Manual explains fiber optic cable installation via an extremely effective, heavily illustrated, step-by-step approach. This easy-look-up compendium gives you diagrams and procedures you can count on, whether you're installing fiber optic cable indoors or out. It also gives you comprehensive guidelines on testing, troubleshooting, and maintenance. All major optical fiber types are included.

Fiber Optics Technician's Manual

The Fiber Optic Technician's Manual serves as a practical guide for the designer, installer, and troubleshooter of fiber optic cable plants and networks used in today's communications systems. Comprehensive in scope, this book addresses applications of fiber optics including telephone, CATV, and computer networks. Discussion centers on the basics of the technology, the components used, and their installation.