The world is moving towards the 5G era. Optical cables will play a vital role in the deployment of 5G networks. These networks will provide consumers with low-latency and high-speed services with stronger and more reliable connections. However, it is impossible to deploy 5G networks without incorporating new base stations. This is because of the limited network coverage of 5G technology and the higher 5G frequency bands. In the article below you can find a quick comparison in terms of bandwidth between different fiber optic cables.
Fiber optic deployment
Massive fiber optic cable deployment is coming!
The transition from 4G to 5G technology is now inevitable as the internet's needs for bandwidth and speed will change significantly. Right now, we don't fully understand the exact requirements or characteristics of 5G. However, according to some market research and research, there will be around 6.5 million 5G base stations in operation worldwide by 2025. Undoubtedly, that's a huge number, and these estimates point to an impending surge in fiber optic cable demand.
1. Insensitive fiber optic cable for indoor connection
The complexity of dense fiber connections between indoor micro cells and newly developed 5G macro cells is one of the biggest cabling challenges associated with 5G deployments. Issues such as limited space and steep bends require cables with excellent bend performance. In this case, ITU G.657 may be preferred, as these fiber-compatible cables are designed for better bending performance. It is widely believed that demand for these cables will surge in the coming years. A number of cable suppliers have announced bend-insensitive cables with optimal loss performance to address the issues associated with indoor cabling in 5G applications.
2. OM5 multimode fiber for core 5G networks
5G service providers and network operators must also address the construction of data center networks that will be used for content storage. In the current situation, data center networks are going through a transition, as 10G/5G networks will be upgraded to 40G/100G networks, and 40G/100G links will be upgraded to 200G/400G links. For data center level interconnects, multimode fiber optic cables compatible with existing Ethernet standards are required. In addition, these cables should also support future upgrades to higher transmission speeds and technologies such as BiDI and SWDM.
om5 multimode fiber
The above circumstances make the new OM5 multimode fiber a bright spot in the construction of 5G data centers. OM5 fiber optic cables are known to transmit multiple wavelengths in the 850nm to 950nm range simultaneously. By using WDM and PM4 modulation techniques, we can achieve link distances up to 150 meters in transmission systems with transmission rates of 100 to 400Gb/s using OM5 fiber optic cables.
Therefore, OM5 multimode fiber is the ultimate choice for high-speed and short-distance transmission networks in any 5G network environment, as well as connections within data centers.
3. Micron diameter fiber
The aggregation layer or access layer of the 5G bearer network consists of highly complex network links. In these layers, limited cabling resources or limited pipe resources are a problem, which will be a huge challenge for network designers and operators. To meet this demand, the fiber optic industry is actively designing more compact fiber optic cables. This can only be achieved by reducing the diameter and size of the cable bundle. This innovative fiber enables designers to produce thinner cables without compromising the size of the core.
The thickness dimension of the cable coating can be reduced from 245 microns to 200 microns, and a smaller overall outer diameter can be achieved. By using a smaller diameter fiber optic cable, we can achieve higher fiber densities in the duct.
5g optical cable
4. Ultra-low-loss fiber to extend 5G link length
5G fiber suppliers are actively researching ultra-low loss fiber technology to improve fiber coverage. G.654.E fiber is a good example discussed here. G.654.E is an innovative product that is considered much better than the commonly used G.652.D fiber, mainly due to its ultra-low loss capability and wider effective area.
5-core fiber optic cable for 5G
As the number of cloud data centers and the transmission capacity and speed of core 5G networks increase, so does the demand for ultra-low-loss fiber optic cables. TXF fiber is becoming more popular and a reliable choice. By design and characteristics, TXF fiber is G.654.E fiber with excellent coverage and high data rate capabilities. This fiber and others like it can help network operators meet growing bandwidth demands.
5. Deploy fiber optic cables in 5G networks
5G network deployment includes both outdoor and indoor scenarios, and installation speed is a very important factor that needs to be addressed. Full dry cable can be spliced quickly and easily during cable installation. Air-blown cables are lightweight and compact, and these cables contain a higher fiber count, or these cables have a high fiber density that helps maximize fiber count. You can install these cables in longer conduits in multiple bends. Therefore, network operators or data center owners can save a lot of resources in terms of manpower, time and resources. For outdoor deployments, you might consider using some bird- and rodent-proof fiber optic cables.
Are you ready to embrace 5G networks?
In the current situation, there is no function better suited for 5G network deployment than fiber optic cables. This is a new technology that will bring greater challenges to fiber optic manufacturers. On the other hand, lower latency requirements and enhanced bandwidth capacity and other features of 5G technology will create virtually limitless possibilities for everyone.
