Why Upgrading to MTP®/MPO OM4 Fiber Optics Is the Smart Choice for Your Network?
Mar 03, 20251 min read
As data centers and enterprise networks demand higher speeds, choosing the right fiber optic infrastructure becomes critical. MTP®/MPO OM3 and OM4 are both widely used multimode fiber types, but MTP®/MPO OM4 fiber is the superior choice for high-bandwidth, high-speed, and long-distance transmission. With higher bandwidth, lower attenuation, and longer transmission distances, MTP®/MPO OM4 fiber is better suited for future-proofing networks. This article provides a detailed comparison between MTP®/MPO OM3 and OM4 fibers to help businesses make informed decisions about their fiber optic deployments.
OM3 vs. OM4: Key Technical Differences
OM4 Offers Lower Attenuation and Higher Stability
Attenuation directly impacts signal stability—lower attenuation means less signal loss and higher data transmission quality. At an 850nm wavelength, the FS MTP®/MPO-12 OM4 cable has an attenuation rate of ≤2.3 dB/km, significantly lower than the ≤3.5 dB/km of MTP®/MPO OM3 fiber. This reduction ensures more stable signal transmission, especially in long-distance or high-density cabling environments. Lower attenuation is crucial for high-bandwidth applications, minimizing data loss and transmission errors. MTP®/MPO OM4 fiber enhances network reliability and efficiency by reducing the need for signal repeaters.
OM4 Enables Higher Bandwidth and Extended Transmission Distance
Bandwidth capacity determines how much data a fiber can transmit over a distance. MTP®/MPO OM4 fiber offers a modal bandwidth of 4700 MHz·km, far exceeding OM3’s 2700 MHz·km. This allows OM4 fiber to carry more data over longer distances with reduced signal dispersion. For example, in 40G SR4 applications, MTP®/MPO OM3 cable supports transmission up to 100 meters, while MTP®/MPO OM4 cable extends this to 150 meters. In 100G SR4 applications, MTP®/MPO OM4 reaches 100 meters, compared to OM3’s 70 meters. This extended reach makes MTP®/MPO OM4 fiber ideal for cross-cabinet, cross-floor, and inter-data center connections, ensuring higher performance and greater network flexibility.
OM3 vs. OM4: Cost Considerations
OM4 Brings Minimal Initial Cost Difference with Higher Long-Term ROI
The price gap between MTP®/MPO OM3 and OM4 fiber depends on the fiber structure (e.g., loose tube, tight-buffered). However, the cost difference is minimal for short-distance applications like fiber patch cords and fiber cassettes. For backbone or trunk cabling, MTP®/MPO OM4 fiber requires a slightly higher initial investment. However, its extended lifespan and higher bandwidth capacity reduce the need for frequent upgrades. Over time, MTP®/MPO OM4 fiber lowers total deployment costs, delivering a superior return on investment (ROI).
OM4 Helps Avoid Costly Future Upgrades
As networks evolve from 10G to 40G or 100G, choosing MTP®/MPO OM4 fiber ensures seamless scalability without requiring new fiber installation. In contrast, MTP®/MPO OM3 cable may become a limiting factor, forcing businesses to upgrade prematurely. Investing in MTP®/MPO OM4 eliminates unnecessary reinstallation costs and minimizes the long-term total cost of ownership.
OM3 vs. OM4: Future Application Scenarios
OM4: The Ideal Choice for 40G/100G High-Speed Networks
40G and 100G networks utilize parallel transmission (e.g., 40G = 4 × 10G). The higher bandwidth of MTP®/MPO OM4 fiber reduces signal synchronization issues and extends effective transmission distances. For large-scale, high-speed data applications—such as data center interconnects, cloud computing, and high-performance computing—MTP®/MPO OM4 fiber provides superior reliability and scalability.
OM4 Ensures Compatibility and Smooth Upgrades
MTP®/MPO OM3 and OM4 fibers are physically compatible, but MTP®/MPO OM4 is the preferred choice for long-term performance and network consistency. While mixed deployments of MTP®/MPO OM3 and OM4 fibers are possible, a standardized OM4 infrastructure simplifies maintenance and ensures optimal performance for future upgrades.
Key Factors in Choosing OM3 vs. OM4
When selecting between MTP®/MPO OM3 and MTP®/MPO OM4, users should focus on the following key considerations:
Network Lifecycle: If the network is expected to be in use for more than five years, the MTP®/MPO OM4 cable is better suited for future technology upgrades and bandwidth expansion. It supports higher data transmission rates and greater bandwidth, ensuring long-term network sustainability.
Transmission Distance Requirements: If the transmission distance exceeds 100 meters for 40G or 70 meters for 100G, MTP®/MPO OM4 cable is the only viable choice. It offers extended reach, making it ideal for long-distance and high-bandwidth applications.
Scalability and Flexibility: If future network expansion or bandwidth upgrades are anticipated, MTP®/MPO OM4 cable provides greater flexibility and capacity for growth. It supports evolving network demands, ensuring a scalable and future-proof infrastructure.
Conclusion
MTP®/MPO OM4 fiber is a strategic investment for enterprises seeking long-term network efficiency. It offers superior bandwidth, lower attenuation, and extended transmission distances to support 100G and beyond. While its initial cost is slightly higher than OM3's, the long-term savings from reduced fiber replacements and simplified maintenance make it a cost-effective choice. With lower signal loss and greater stability, MTP®/MPO OM4 enhances network reliability and scalability, making it the ideal solution for businesses preparing for high-bandwidth, future-proof networks. Discover the full range of MTP®/MPO OM4 fiber products at FS and invest in your network’s future today!
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