40Gb OM3 LC to LC Fiber Cable 131.2ft - Plenum Rated

In this review the Cable Matters 40Gb OM3 LC to LC fiber cable is evaluated for use in SANs, data centers, and 10 Gigabit links where plenum safety and flexibility matter. The bottom line: this 131.2ft duplex OM3 cable is aimed at network engineers and integrators who need a bend insensitive, OFNP plenum rated link that reliably connects VCSEL SFP+ transceivers and 10Gb equipment. Its biggest selling point is combining a true OM3 laser optimized multimode core with a tight, zipcord form factor and clear A/B labeling for fast installs in dense cabinets.

Key Features

• OM3 LOMMF: Laser optimized multimode 50/125 fiber supports 10GBase-SR and other 10 Gigabit applications with low modal dispersion for reliable high-speed links.
• OFNP plenum rating: Plenum OFNP jacket meets UL 910 requirements so it can be routed in air handling spaces where fire safety is required.
• Bend insensitive design: The cable tolerates a 7.5mm bending radius, making it far more flexible for tight cabinet paths and dense patching without added loss.
• LC duplex with A/B ID: Slim LC connectors in a protective yoke and embossed A/B labels simplify correct polarity and reduce installation errors during troubleshooting.
• Tight-buffered zipcord: The 2.0 x 4.2mm zipcord construction and removable dust caps make it easy to route and protect ends during installation and maintenance.
• Interoperable with SFP+ gear: Works with a broad range of VCSEL transceivers, Ethernet switches, media converters and optical NICs used in datacenter and enterprise environments.

Who It's For

This cable is well suited for datacenter technicians, SAN administrators, and integrators who need a long, plenum-rated multimode run between racks or through ceiling plenums where fire codes require OFNP-rated cabling. It is also good for office backbone runs that will see frequent re-patching or tight bend requirements.

Users who need singlemode fiber, runs longer than OM3 practical distances for 10Gb SR, or specialized connector types should look elsewhere; this product is optimized for multimode VCSEL-based short reach links rather than long-haul singlemode networks.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Reliable 10Gb performance with OM3 LOMMF for SFP+ and similar transceivers as reported by customers.
• OFNP plenum jacket allows safe routing in ceiling and air-handling spaces.
• Bend insensitive construction and slim LC boots ease installation in dense cabinets.
• Clear A/B labeling and removable dust caps speed up maintenance and reduce errors.

Cons

• Not suitable for long-distance singlemode applications; intended for multimode short-reach deployments.
• The tight zipcord diameter can be less flexible than loose-tube styles for some conduit runs.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The Cable Matters 40Gb OM3 LC to LC 131.2ft plenum cable is a practical, cost-conscious choice for technicians needing a reliable 10Gb multimode link in plenum spaces or dense racks. Its bend insensitive fiber, clear polarity labeling, and OFNP jacket make it a sensible investment for short-reach SAN and data center runs where safety and flexibility are priorities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will this cable work with SFP+ transceivers?
Yes, the OM3 LOMMF multimode fiber is compatible with VCSEL SFP+ transceivers and common 10Gb SR modules used in switches and NICs.

Is the jacket safe for ceiling plenums?
Yes, the cable carries an OFNP plenum rating that meets UL 910 fire requirements for air-handling spaces.

Can this replace existing OM2 or OM1 multimode links?
OM3 is backwards compatible with earlier multimode systems for shorter links, but performance gains at 10Gb require OM3-rated components end-to-end for optimal link margins.