Price of 120km optical cable

The cost of a 120km single-mode optical fiber cable can range from approximately $120,000 to $360,000 for the cable alone, with installation costs potentially adding $1.2 million to $3.6 million depending on terrain and method.

Cable Cost Breakdown

The price of fiber optic cable depends on several factors, including type, protection, and installation environment. For single-mode fiber, which is suitable for long-distance transmission like 120km, the raw cable cost typically ranges from $1,000 to $3,000 per kilometer . For 120km, this translates to $120,000 to $360,000 for the cable itself. Multi-mode fiber is cheaper but not suitable for such long distances due to higher signal attenuation . Additional factors affecting cost include:

• Armored vs non-armored cables: Armored cables are more expensive due to extra protection against environmental damage .
• Aerial vs underground installation: Underground installation requires trenching and can significantly increase costs, while aerial installation is cheaper but more exposed to environmental risks .
• Geographical and logistical considerations: Remote or difficult terrain can increase installation costs . Installation costs can range from $10,000 to $30,000 per kilometer, meaning total deployment for 120km could reach $1.2 million to $3.6 million . Bulk procurement and using existing infrastructure can reduce costs.

120km Optical Modules

For long-haul transmission, 120km SFP or SFP+ transceivers are often required to maintain signal integrity without repeaters. These modules are designed for single-mode fiber and can transmit data over 120km using high-power lasers and sensitive APD receivers . Prices for these modules vary by data rate and technology:

• 1.25Gbps CWDM SFP modules: Cost-effective, suitable for long-range WAN or MAN applications .
• 10G Base ZR+ SFP+ modules: Higher performance, supporting 10Gbps over 120km, typically more expensive due to advanced laser technology and link budget guarantees . The cost of these modules can range from $200 to $1,500 per unit, depending on specifications, vendor, and warranty coverage .

Summary

• Cable cost (120km single-mode): $120,000 – $360,000
• Installation cost: $1.2 million – $3.6 million
• SFP/SFP+ modules for 120km: $200 – $1,500 per module When budgeting for a 120km optical link, consider both the fiber cable and the necessary transceivers, as well as installation complexity and environmental protection requirements .