What is the main advantage of using singlemode fiber over multimode fiber?

The main advantage of using singlemode fiber over multimode fiber lies in its higher data transmission capacity. Singlemode fiber has a much smaller core diameter, typically around 8-10 micrometers, which allows it to carry data at significantly higher speeds and over much greater distances compared to multimode fiber. This capability is due to the reduced modal dispersion in singlemode fiber, where only one mode of light travels through the fiber, resulting in less signal degradation over long distances.

As a result, singlemode fiber is particularly advantageous for applications requiring high bandwidth and long-distance transmission, such as telecommunications and data centers. The technology enables more efficient and faster data transmission, making it suitable for high-performance networks and future-proofing infrastructure to accommodate increasing data demands.

While other factors might influence the choice of fiber, such as cost or environmental resistance, the superior data transmission capacity is a defining characteristic that sets singlemode fiber apart, particularly in high-demand environments.