Which type of fiber optic cables offer higher bandwidth and longer transmission distances?

Single-Mode Fiber Optic Cables are designed for long-distance communication and offer significantly higher bandwidth compared to multi-mode fiber. The core of single-mode fiber is much thinner, typically around 8 to 10 microns in diameter, which allows light to travel directly down the fiber without bouncing off the core's walls. This design minimizes modal dispersion, enabling signals to travel farther and with better clarity.

Because single-mode fibers can transmit over greater distances without the need for as many repeaters, they are ideal for telecommunications and high-capacity data networks where long-range signals are necessary. In contrast, multi-mode fibers, while effective for shorter distances, have a larger core that allows multiple light modes to propagate. This leads to increased modal dispersion, which limits bandwidth and transmission distance.

Standard and high-density fiber optic cables do not specifically indicate performance capabilities related to distance and bandwidth in the way that single-mode fibers do. While they may relate to form factors and packing density, they do not inherently possess the same transmission characteristics as single-mode fibers.