Which factor is most crucial for determining the maximum distance data can travel over fiber optic cables?

The type of fiber used is a fundamental factor in determining the maximum distance that data can effectively travel over fiber optic cables. Different types of fiber optics, such as single-mode and multimode fibers, have distinct characteristics that affect signal loss and performance over distances.

Single-mode fiber, which has a smaller core diameter, allows light to travel straight down the fiber and minimizes modal dispersion, enabling data transmission over much longer distances with less signal attenuation. This makes single-mode fiber ideal for long-distance telecommunications. In contrast, multimode fiber, with its larger core, supports multiple light paths, but this results in modal dispersion that can degrade the signal quality over longer distances.

The other factors, while they may play a role in overall performance or installation considerations, do not have the same critical impact on the distance data can travel as the type of fiber. For instance, the color of the cable and cable thickness are primarily related to physical characteristics and aesthetics, rather than signal integrity or distance capability. Data encoding methods can affect the speed of data transfer and efficiency, but the fundamental limitation imposed by the fiber type remains the most significant factor in distance determination.