What type of optical cable should be used for the trunk line

MPO/MTP pre-terminated trunk cables with ultra-low loss and high fiber density are the standard choice for modern backbone lines.Key Considerations for Trunk Cable Selection1. Cable Type: For trunk lines, MPO (Multi-fiber Push-On) or MTP® pre-terminated trunk cables are recommended. These cables integrate multiple optical fibers within a single assembly, enabling high-density, high-speed backbone connections between Main Distribution Areas (MDAs) and Horizontal Distribution Areas (HDAs) in data centers or enterprise networks . 2. Fiber Count and Configuration: Modern trunk cables typically use Base-8 or Base-16 configurations, replacing legacy Base-12 designs. Fiber counts can range from 12 to 144 fibers or more, with MPO-16 connectors becoming standard for 800G-SR8 backbone routing . High fiber density reduces cable tray occupation and simplifies management. 3. Performance Requirements:Ultra-Low Loss (ULL) trunks with insertion loss ≤0.25 dB are mandatory for high-speed networks (400G, 800G, 1.6T) to meet strict link budgets .Factory-tested pre-terminated cables ensure consistent transmission quality and minimize installation errors . 4. Connector Type: Trunks usually feature un-pinned (female) MPO connectors to mate with pinned (male) cassettes. Connector options include MPO/MTP or LC for breakout applications . 5. Jacket and Compliance:OFNP (Plenum) jackets are required for US plenum spaces.CPR Euroclass (e.g., B2ca) jackets are used in European deployments .Dual-jacket designs enhance tensile strength and installation stability . 6. Installation Features:Factory-installed pulling eyes protect delicate MPO end-faces during routing through conduits or raised floors .Pre-terminated design allows plug-and-play deployment, reducing downtime and maintenance costs .Summary RecommendationFor a trunk line in a modern high-speed network, select a pre-terminated MPO/MTP trunk cable with:Ultra-low loss (≤0.25 dB)High fiber density (Base-8 or Base-16, 12–144 fibers)Appropriate jacket type for local code compliance (OFNP or CPR Euroclass)Factory-tested connectors (un-pinned MPO or LC)Installation-friendly features like pulling eyes and dual-jacket construction This ensures high performance, scalability, and reliability for backbone connections in data centers, enterprise networks, or telecom environments .