Multimode fiber has a larger core (typically 50 or 62. 5 microns) and can carry multiple light signals, usually LEDS, at once. While that's great for short distances, those overlapping signals can bump into each other and cause distortion over longer distances. Multimode fiber's bandwidth has to ability to cope along with higher data throughput over the shorter. Multimode and single-mode fiber optic cables differ greatly in their design and purpose. While both cables use the same basic principles, each has its own advantages and disadvantages that make them ideally suited for a particular environment. Learning when it is appropriate to use each is critical. What are the advantages and disadvantages of single-mode fiber and multimode fiber? For multimode fiber, when the geometric size of the fiber (mainly the core diameter d1) is much larger than the wavelength of light (about 1µm), there will be dozens or even hundreds of propagation modes in the. The main difference between these fiber options comes down to how light travels through the cable. It is cost effective in equipment and installer friendly.