A: The transmission distance of multimode fiber depends on the fiber type and data rate. Multimode fiber optic cables are designed to carry multiple light modes simultaneously, each taking a different path or mode through the fiber. This characteristic makes MMF ideal for high-bandwidth applications over relatively short distances. With proper amplification systems, single mode installations can extend to thousands of kilometers – submarine. Fiber optic cable can be run anywhere from 300 meters up to 80 kilometers (roughly 50 miles) depending on the cable type, transceiver used, and network standard.