Single-mode cabling and multi-mode cabling are two types of fiber optic cables that differ in their core diameter, wavelength, light source, bandwidth, distance, and cost. Single-mode cabling has a smaller core diameter and uses a laser as a light source, which enables it to transmit data over longer distances and higher bandwidths. However, single-mode cabling is also more expensive than multi-mode cabling, because it requires more precise alignmentand splicing, and more costly light sources and connectors. Multi-mode cabling has a larger core diameter and uses LEDs or VCSELs as a light source, which makes it cheaper and easier to install and maintain. However, multi-mode cabling also has a shorter distance and lower bandwidth than single-mode cabling, because it suffers from more modal dispersion and attenuation.
References:
1: Data Center Cabling: Single Mode vs Multimode Fibers2, page 1, section 1 3: Single Mode vs Multimode Fiber Cable Guide4, page 1, section 1 5: Single-Mode vs. Multi-Mode Fiber Cables: Explained6, page 1, section 1 7: 2 Types of Fiber Optic Cable: Single Mode vs. Multimode Fiber8, page 1, section 1
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