Plastic Optical Fiber (POF) cables typically cost between $0.09 and $1.00 per foot, depending on strand count, construction, and application.

Pricing Overview

Plastic fiber optic cables are generally less expensive than glass fiber cables due to lower material costs and shorter transmission distances . Typical price ranges for POF cables are:

• Single-core FTTH drop cable: ~$0.13 per foot
• 12-strand POF cable: ~$0.50 per foot
• 24-strand POF cable: ~$1.00 per foot Pre-terminated assemblies or patch cables with connectors can cost more, depending on the connector type and number of strands .

Factors Affecting Price

1. Cable Type and Strand Count: More strands increase cost proportionally.
2. Construction and Rating: Indoor riser-rated cables are cheaper than plenum-rated or armored cables suitable for harsh environments ($0.50–$5 per foot for armored cables), .
3. Installation Complexity: Labor, trenching, splicing, and conduit installation can significantly increase total project costs. For example, a 1,000 ft indoor run may cost $0.40/ft for cable plus $1.00/ft for labor, totaling ~$2,650–$3,100 .
4. Regional Variations: Urban areas may have higher labor and permit costs, while rural areas may incur higher delivery fees .

Example Price Chart (Material Only)

Notes

• Prices are for U.S. markets and may vary by vendor and region .
• Glass fiber cables remain more expensive but offer higher speed and longer distance capabilities.
• For project budgeting, consider both material and installation costs, as labor often exceeds cable cost for outdoor or complex runs . For purchasing, distributors like Mouser Electronics provide up-to-date pricing and datasheets for POF assemblies .