What does an orange colored jacket typically indicate in optical fiber cables?

The orange colored jacket in optical fiber cables typically indicates that the cable contains multimode fiber. The color coding for fiber optic cabling is standardized, and orange is specifically designated for multimode fibers, which are designed to carry multiple light modes simultaneously, making them suitable for short-distance applications.

Multimode fibers have a larger core diameter compared to singlemode fibers, allowing for the transmission of multiple light paths, or modes. This design is particularly advantageous in environments where high bandwidth over shorter distances is required, such as within buildings or local area networks (LANs).

In contrast, singlemode fibers, which are intended for long-distance communication, typically have a yellow jacket. The other options refer to characteristics not associated with the orange jacket color. While outdoor-rated cables and those designed for high temperatures might have different color jackets or markings, these specifications are independent of the fiber mode type. Understanding these color coding conventions is crucial for proper installation and maintenance of fiber optic systems, ensuring that technicians can easily identify the type of fiber they are working with.