The Ultimate Fiber Optic Cable Color Code Guide (Free PDF Chart)
Release time:
2026-04-14
While there isn't a single universal standard, the industry follows a few major color codes. The most widely used is the TIA-598 standard, which this guide covers in detail.
While there isn't a single universal standard, the industry follows a few major color codes. The most widely used is the TIA-598 standard, which this guide covers in detail.
For a quick reference, here are the most critical color codes used daily:
● 12-Fiber Sequence (TIA-598): 1. Blue, 2. Orange, 3. Green, 4. Brown, 5. Slate, 6. White, 7. Red, 8. Black, 9. Yellow, 10. Violet, 11. Rose, 12. Aqua .
● Jacket Colors by Fiber Type: Yellow (Singlemode OS1/OS2), Orange (Multimode OM1/OM2), Aqua (Laser-optimized OM3/OM4), Lime Green (Wideband OM5) .
● Connector Colors: Blue (Singlemode UPC), Green (Singlemode APC), Beige/Black (Multimode), Aqua (OM3/OM4) .
The Official Standard (IEC 63194)
If you need the authoritative source for global practices, refer to IEC TR 63194:2019. This technical report, titled Guidance on colour coding of optical fibre cables, is the official document that examines the need for color coding and lists the major schemes used worldwide. It is available for purchase through national standards bodies like ANSI, BSI, or AFNOR .
TIA-598 12-Color Sequence (Most Common)
Inside a multi-fiber cable's buffer tubes or ribbons, individual fibers follow a standard 12-color sequence. When more than 12 fibers are present, this sequence repeats, and the second group is typically marked with a black tracer or stripe .
| Fiber Number | Color |
|---|---|
| 1 | Blue |
| 2 | Orange |
| 3 | Green |
| 4 | Brown |
| 5 | Slate |
| 6 | White |
| 7 | Red |
| 8 | Black |
| 9 | Yellow |
| 10 | Violet |
| 11 | Rose |
| 12 | Aqua |
Cable Jacket Color Codes
The outer jacket color quickly identifies the fiber type and its performance characteristics. Note that outdoor cables are often black for UV protection, relying on printed text for identification.
| Fiber Type | Standard Jacket Color |
|---|---|
| Singlemode (OS1, OS2) | Yellow |
| Multimode (OM1 - 62.5/125, OM2 - 50/125) | Orange |
| Laser-Optimized Multimode (OM3, OM4 - 50/125) | Aqua |
| Wideband Multimode (OM5) | Lime Green |
| Polarization Maintaining (PM) Singlemode | Blue |
Connector Color Codes
Connector bodies or boots often use color to indicate the polish type and fiber mode.
| Connector Type | Color |
|---|---|
| Singlemode (UPC polish) | Blue |
| Singlemode (APC polish) | Green |
| Multimode (OM1/OM2) | Beige or Black |
| Laser-Optimized Multimode (OM3/OM4) | Aqua |
International Variations
The TIA standard is dominant in North America, but other regions have different color codes for individual fibers and buffer tubes . For example, a fiber that is "Blue" in TIA might be "Red" in some European standards. The official IEC TR 63194 standard is the best source for these global variations .
Free PDF Chart
You can download a pocket-sized PDF chart directly from The Fiber Optic Association (FOA) to keep on your phone or print for your toolbox .
Download Link: FOA Guide to Fiber Optic Color Codes (Look for the download link on the page to get the PDF).
I hope this guide helps you keep your connections clear and accurate. If you are working with a specific type of cable, like ribbon fiber or MPO connectors, feel free to ask for more detailed charts.
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