Which type of fiber-optic cable typically has lower installation costs?

Multimode fiber-optic cable typically has lower installation costs compared to single-mode cable. This is mainly due to several factors. Multimode fibers have a larger core diameter, which allows multiple light modes to propagate through the fiber. As a result, they are generally easier to work with, enabling quicker installation and termination processes.

Additionally, multimode cables use light-emitting diodes (LEDs) as their light source, which are less expensive than the laser diodes required for single-mode cables. This cost difference in components contributes to the overall lower installation expenses associated with multimode systems.

In contrast, single-mode fiber, while beneficial for long-distance and high-speed data transmission, generally requires more precise installation and higher-quality components, which can raise overall installation costs. The other listed options, such as Hitachi and coaxial cables, do not pertain to fiber optics and would not typically be considered in discussions about installation costs specifically related to fiber-optic technology.