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2025-04-01 19:45:26 R. Bishop: -/-| /dev/null .. networking/cabling/fibre.md | |
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| + | # Fibre Network Cabling |
| + | |
| + | ## What is Fibre Network Cabling? |
| + | |
| + | Fibre optic cabling is a **high-speed transmission medium** that uses **light signals** to transfer data over glass or plastic strands. It provides **superior bandwidth, longer distances**, and **immunity to electromagnetic interference (EMI)**—making it ideal for modern, high-performance networks. |
| + | |
| + | --- |
| + | |
| + | ## Why Choose Fibre Over Copper? |
| + | |
| + | ### **Higher Bandwidth & Speed** |
| + | - Fibre supports speeds up to **100 Gbps and beyond**, far exceeding copper limitations. |
| + | - Enables high-speed backbone infrastructure for **LANs, WANs**, and **data centres**. |
| + | |
| + | ### **Longer Transmission Distance** |
| + | - Single-mode fibre can span **tens of kilometres** without signal degradation. |
| + | - Copper cabling is typically limited to **100 meters** per segment. |
| + | |
| + | ### **EMI Immunity & Security** |
| + | - Fibre is **immune to EMI**, making it suitable for industrial or high-interference environments. |
| + | - Difficult to tap without detection, enhancing **data security**. |
| + | |
| + | --- |
| + | |
| + | ## Fibre vs Copper Cable Comparison |
| + | |
| + | | Feature | Fibre Optic Cable | Copper Cable (Twisted Pair) | |
| + | |--------|-------------------|-----------------------------| |
| + | | **Speed** | Up to 100 Gbps+ | Up to 40 Gbps (Cat8) | |
| + | | **Distance** | 500m to 40km+ | Up to 100m | |
| + | | **EMI Resistance** | Immune | Susceptible | |
| + | | **Bandwidth** | Extremely high | Moderate | |
| + | | **Security** | Harder to tap | Easier to intercept | |
| + | | **Durability** | Fragile (bending/tension sensitive) | More robust physically | |
| + | | **Cost (Materials)** | Higher | Lower | |
| + | | **Installation Skill** | Requires specialist tools | Easier to install | |
| + | |
| + | --- |
| + | |
| + | ## Types of Fibre Optic Cables |
| + | |
| + | ### **Single-mode Fibre (SMF)** |
| + | - Core diameter: ~9 µm |
| + | - Transmits one light signal |
| + | - Ideal for **long-distance, high-speed links** |
| + | - Used in **WANs, telecoms, and large campuses** |
| + | |
| + | ### **Multi-mode Fibre (MMF)** |
| + | - Core diameter: 50–62.5 µm |
| + | - Supports multiple light paths |
| + | - Best for **shorter distances**, typically within buildings or data centres |
| + | |
| + | | Mode | Max Distance | Typical Use Case | |
| + | |------|--------------|------------------| |
| + | | OM1 | 275m @ 1 Gbps | Legacy systems | |
| + | | OM3 | 300m @ 10 Gbps | Data centres | |
| + | | OM4 | 400m @ 10 Gbps | High-performance LAN | |
| + | | OM5 | 550m+ @ 10 Gbps | Emerging high-speed applications | |
| + | |
| + | --- |
| + | |
| + | ## Fibre Connector Types |
| + | |
| + | | Connector | Description | Common Use | |
| + | |-----------|-------------|-------------| |
| + | | LC | Small form factor, latch mechanism | Data centres, patch panels | |
| + | | SC | Snap-in connector, easy to use | Telecom and enterprise | |
| + | | ST | Bayonet-style, older use | Industrial / legacy | |
| + | | MTP/MPO | Multi-fibre push-on | High-density 40/100G links | |
| + | |
| + | --- |
| + | |
| + | ## UK Standards for Fibre Cabling |
| + | |
| + | ### **Relevant Standards** |
| + | - **BS EN 50173-1** → General requirements for structured cabling including fibre |
| + | - **ISO/IEC 11801** → International cabling standard supporting fibre topologies |
| + | - **BS EN 50174** → Installation and quality assurance practices |
| + | - **BS 6701:2016+A1:2017** → Telecom cabling including fibre, safety requirements |
| + | |
| + | ### **Fire & Safety Compliance** |
| + | - Use **Low Smoke Zero Halogen (LSZH)** fibre cables in indoor and public spaces. |
| + | - Ensure **CPR compliance (EU Construction Products Regulation)**. |
| + | |
| + | --- |
| + | |
| + | ## Best Practices for Fibre Installation |
| + | |
| + | ### **1. Protect the Fibre Core** |
| + | - Avoid bending tighter than the **minimum bend radius**. |
| + | - Use **bend-insensitive fibre** where space is limited. |
| + | |
| + | ### **2. Maintain Clean Connections** |
| + | - Use **fibre cleaning tools** before every connection. |
| + | - Dust and oils significantly affect signal performance. |
| + | |
| + | ### **3. Use Correct Patch Panels & Enclosures** |
| + | - Use **LC/SC-compatible panels** based on your connector type. |
| + | - Fibre enclosures help manage slack and prevent damage. |
| + | |
| + | ### **4. Label & Document Everything** |
| + | - Label both ends of each fibre strand. |
| + | - Maintain up-to-date diagrams of the fibre runs. |
| + | |
| + | ### **5. Test & Certify Fibre Links** |
| + | - Use **OTDR** (Optical Time Domain Reflectometer) and **light source/power meter** tools. |
| + | - Test for **attenuation, return loss, and polarity**. |
| + | |
| + | --- |
| + | |
| + | ## Use Cases for Fibre in Modern Networks |
| + | |
| + | - **Data Centres** → High-speed, high-density backbone cabling |
| + | - **Enterprise Campuses** → Multi-building interconnects |
| + | - **Healthcare** → Low-latency imaging and data systems |
| + | - **Fire & Security** → Fibre links for **CCTV backhaul, access control, and fire alarm panels** |
| + | - **Smart Buildings** → Backbone for integrated BMS, AV, and IoT systems |
| + | |
| + | --- |
| + | |
| + | Fibre optic cabling is the **future-proof foundation** for high-performance networks. While copper remains viable for shorter, cost-sensitive runs, **fibre's speed, security, and range** make it essential for backbone and critical infrastructure. Following UK standards ensures safe, scalable, and regulation-compliant installations. |