Single-mode fibre optic cables are comprised of one glass fibre strand with a fairly slim core diameter. Far less internal reflection is involved as light rays pass through it, therefore reducing attenuation and allowing for far higher speed data transfer over longer distances. The following recommendations are general guidelines only. At a minimum, most residential installations require two strands of fiber, although adding additional strands is highly recommended. You'll learn how to identify single-mode vs. The TIA-598 standard (specifically. I have heard this term (fiber strands) used loosely. By allowing data. Bending: The fiber is squeezed, and other reasons cause bending, which causes part of the light to be lost due to scattering, resulting in attenuation.