How to specify patch cables for a project — measuring length, jacket ratings (OFNR, OFNP, LSZH), bend-insensitive fiber and labeling.
Updated October 2026 · AltoChip team · General reference — project specifics are confirmed in each quotation.
Specify length along the real cable path — through managers, up and over trays, with slack for service loops. Standard lengths simplify spares; custom lengths keep racks tidy at volume. A list of "quantity × length" per link type is the most useful thing to send.
Building codes decide the jacket. In North America, OFNR (riser) and OFNP (plenum) are common ratings; LSZH (low smoke zero halogen) is common in many other regions. Tell us the installation space and destination so the jacket rating is specified correctly.
Bend-insensitive fiber tolerates tighter routing in dense racks, but every cable still has a minimum bend radius. For larger projects, end labels and color coding by link type save hours at installation — ask for them in the RFQ.