Technical Insights
Single-Mode vs Multi-Mode: A Selection Guide
Bandwidth, reach and cost trade-offs between SMF, OM3 and OM4.
For runs under 300m at 10G, OM3/OM4 multi-mode plus VCSEL transceivers usually win on cost. Beyond that, or at 40G/100G, single-mode with Fabry-Pérot or DFB lasers becomes the economical choice. We map the decision by data rate, reach and module price.
