What are polymer optical fibers (POF) primarily used for?

Polymer optical fibers (POF) are primarily used for short-distance applications like home networking due to their advantages in flexibility, lightweight characteristics, and cost-effectiveness. POF is particularly suitable for applications where high bandwidth is not critically required, such as in residential settings or small office environments. The ease of installation and the ability to bend without significant loss make POF ideal for connecting devices over distances typically ranging from a few centimeters up to several hundred meters.

While other materials, such as glass optical fibers, are better suited for long-distance telecommunications and high-speed data transmission needed in data centers, POF excels in scenarios where the installation environment is less demanding, and the cost and ease of handling are more critical.