Single mode fiber optic cables in Australia typically cost between $0.40 and $1.00 AUD per metre, depending on type, length, and termination.

Price Overview

Single mode fiber (SMF), including OS1 and OS2 types, is designed for long-distance, high-bandwidth applications. The raw cable cost is generally competitive, ranging from $0.40 to $1.00 AUD per metre . This makes single mode fiber often cheaper than multimode options like OM3 or OM4 in terms of cable alone .

Factors Affecting Price

1. Cable Type and Rating: OS2 cables are optimized for long-distance outdoor or indoor/outdoor use, while OS1 is typically for indoor applications .
2. Length and Core Count: Longer cables or higher core counts increase the total cost.
3. Termination: Pre-terminated cables with connectors (LC, SC, ST, MTP/MPO) are more expensive than bulk cables but save installation time and reduce signal loss .
4. Installation Environment: Outdoor-rated or armored cables cost more due to additional protective layers .

Additional Costs

While the cable itself is relatively inexpensive, associated hardware such as transceivers and SFP modules can cost 2–3 times more than multimode equivalents . This is important to consider for total network deployment costs.

Where to Buy

• 4Cabling offers OS1/OS2 single mode cables with various terminations and custom lengths, ready to ship in Australia .
• FS Australia provides duplex patch leads for 1G–400G Ethernet connections, supporting distances up to 40 km .
• eBay Australia and Dataworld also list single mode fiber cables, including outdoor armored options, often with free delivery for certain items .

Summary

For planning purposes, expect $0.40–$1.00 AUD per metre for single mode fiber cable, with additional costs for connectors, transceivers, and installation. Choosing pre-terminated cables can save labor and reduce signal loss, while bulk cable is cheaper but requires field termination. Single mode fiber is ideal for long-distance, high-performance networks where low attenuation and high bandwidth are critical .