What colors are available for multimode optical fibers

Multimode optical fiber is typically color-coded with orange, aqua, or lime jackets, depending on the fiber type and performance level. Multimode fibers are distinguished from single-mode fibers primarily by their jacket color. OM1 and OM2 fibers usually have orange jackets, with OM1 having a 62.

5 µm core and OM2 a 50 µm core, both commonly using LED light sources for short-distance communication. OM3 and OM4 fibers, which are laser-optimized for higher data rates, typically use aqua-colored jackets. Some manufacturers also use violet to differentiate OM4 from OM3 in high-density data centers.

The newest OM5 fiber is often lime-colored, supporting wideband multimode applications while remaining backward compatible with OM4. These color codes help technicians quickly identify fiber types and ensure proper network installation, as using the wrong fiber type can affect performance and data transmission reliability. While these are standard colors, some legacy or vendor-specific variations may exist, so checking printed markings on the cable is recommended for precise identification.