OM1, OM2, OM3, OM4, and OM5 Multimode Fibers Explained: Differences, Specs, and Selection Guide

When designing fiber optic networks, selecting the right cable is crucial for performance, reliability, and cost-efficiency. As experts at Falcon Technologies Inc., we've deployed thousands of multimode fiber solutions across enterprises. Here's a comprehensive guide to multimode fibers prefixed with "OM," helping you choose the best option for your needs.

Types of Fiber Optic Cables in Telecommunications

A. Single-mode cables (prefixed "OS")
B. Multimode cables (prefixed "OM")

OS Cables (Single-Mode)

OS cables feature a thinner 9-micron core. OS1 supports distances under 2 km, while OS2 handles long-haul up to 200 km.

OM Cables (Multimode)

Multimode fibers excel in short-to-medium runs (a few hundred meters), ideal for buildings or campuses. Pre-terminated fiber optic cables from trusted suppliers like Falcon Technologies reduce installation costs significantly. They typically support 10 Gbit/s up to 550 m, with larger cores—50 µm (OM2-OM5) or 62.5 µm (OM1)—allowing multiple light modes for higher data throughput.

Types of Multimode Fiber

Per ISO 11801, multimode fibers fall into five categories: OM1, OM2, OM3, OM4, and OM5 (newest). They differ in core size, bandwidth, data rates, jacket color, distance, and light source.

OM1 Fiber

• Orange jacket
• 62.5 µm core
• 10 Gigabit Ethernet up to 33 m
• Suits 100 Mbps Ethernet
• LED source

OM2 Fiber

• Orange jacket
• 50 µm core
• 10 Gigabit Ethernet up to 82 m
• Ideal for 1 Gigabit Ethernet
• LED source

OM3 Fiber

• Aqua jacket
• 50 µm core
• 10 Gigabit Ethernet up to 300 m
• 40/100 Gigabit Ethernet up to 100 m
• Laser-optimized (VCSEL)

OM4 Fiber

• Aqua jacket
• 50 µm core (enhanced OM3)
• 10 Gigabit Ethernet up to 550 m
• 40/100 Gigabit Ethernet up to 150 m (MPO connectors)
• VCSEL-optimized

OM5 Fiber

• Released 2014 (Wideband Multimode Fiber)
• Lime green jacket
• Matches OM4 specs for EMB and Ethernet distances
• Supports 4+ WDM channels at 28 Gbps (850-953 nm)
• VCSEL source

MMF Type	Jacket Color	Optical Source	Diameter	Bandwidth
OM1	Orange	LED	62.5/125 µm	200 MHz*km
OM2	Orange	LED	50/125 µm	500 MHz*km
OM3	Aqua	VCSEL	50/125 µm	2000 MHz*km
OM4	Aqua	VCSEL	50/125 µm	4700 MHz*km
OM5	Lime Green	VCSEL	50/125 µm	28000 MHz*km

Key Considerations for Choosing Multimode Fiber

• OM1's 62.5 µm core isn't compatible with OM2-OM5; match cores for connectors.
• Verify cable legend on orange OM1/OM2 jackets.
• OM1/OM2 use LEDs (limited bandwidth); OM3-OM5 are laser-optimized (LOMMF) for higher speeds.
• OM1 for short, budget runs; OM3/OM4 for 10/40 Gbps.

Advantages of Multimode Fiber

Multi-User Support

Carries multiple signals simultaneously without interference.

Multi-Protocol Compatibility

Supports Ethernet, InfiniBand, and more.

Cost-Effective

Easy to install with standard connectors/adapters; lower upfront and maintenance costs.

Need Help Choosing?

At Falcon Technologies Inc., we stock all OM fiber types. Contact our experts to match the perfect cable to your distance, speed, and budget requirements.