What are the two main types of optical cables?

The two main types of optical cables are single-mode and multi-mode cables. These categories are essential in understanding how optical fibers transmit data and the specific applications for which each type is suited.

Single-mode fibers have a small core diameter and are designed to carry light directly down the fiber without much reflection, allowing for higher bandwidth and longer distances. This type is ideal for long-range communication such as telecommunications and networks over large distances due to its ability to minimize signal loss.

Multi-mode fibers, on the other hand, have a larger core diameter, allowing multiple light modes to travel through the core. This design is beneficial for short-distance data transmission, such as within a building or local area network, where the increased light pathways can take advantage of the shorter distances effectively.

Understanding these types helps in selecting the right optical cable for specific networking needs, ensuring optimal performance based on the distance and bandwidth requirements. The other options provided do not represent the primary classification of optical cables in terms of their operational characteristics and transmission capabilities.