Anyone who’s ever had to pull fiber optic cable knows it’s not a walk in the park. You need to be careful and take your time, or you’ll end up with a tangled mess. In this post, we’ll give you some advice on how to make the process go as smoothly as possible. Let’s get started!
What is a fiber optic cable?
A fiber optic cable is a type of data transmission cable that uses light to send signals. The line consists of a thin, flexible glass or plastic core surrounded by transparent cladding material. The core and cladding materials have different refractive indices, which allow light to travel along the length of the core without being scattered. The cable also contains a buffer material to protect the core from damage and to provide mechanical strength. Fiber optic cables are used in various applications, including telecommunications, computer networking, and medical imaging. They can transmit data at extremely high speeds and over long distances with little signal loss.
Primary uses of fiber optic cables
- Long-distance telephone and data communications: Fiber optic cables carry much more data than traditional copper wires, making them essential for long-distance communications. They are also less susceptible to interference, making them ideal for transmitting sensitive data.
- High-speed Internet: Many homes and businesses now have high-speed Internet service thanks to fiber optics. Fiber optic cables can hold huge amounts of data very quickly, making them perfect for applications like video streaming and online gaming.
- Cable TV: Most cable television providers now use fiber optic cables to deliver their service. This allows for crystal clear HD picture quality and Dolby Digital sound.
- Medical Imaging: Doctors and surgeons rely on fiber optics for endoscopes and laparoscopes. Fiber optics provide clear, high-resolution images that can be used for diagnosis and treatment.
- Automotive Safety Systems: Fiber optics are increasingly important in automotive safety systems. Things like lane departure warning systems and night vision use fiber optics to gather information about the surrounding area.
- Military Applications: The military uses fiber optics for various applications, including battlefield communications, target acquisition, and surveillance. Fiber optics is also being used in developing new weapons systems.
How fragile is fiber optic cable?
Fiber optic cable is composed of skinny strands of glass or plastic, resulting in a much more fragile cord than traditional copper wire. A single fiber optic cable can contain hundreds or even thousands of individual fibers, each just a fraction of a millimeter in diameter. This makes fiber optic cable susceptible to damage from small objects like dust particles or sand grains. Moreover, the tiny fibers inside the line are also vulnerable to breakage if the cable is bent or twisted too sharply. While fiber optic cable is generally more delicate than other types of wiring, it can be protected by enclosing it in a protective sheath or jacket. With proper care and handling, fiber optic cable can provide a reliable and high-speed connection for many years.
How to pull fiber optic cable: The best tips
When it comes to fiber optic cable installation, one of the most critical steps is pulling the cable. This can be challenging, as the line is very delicate and can easily be damaged. However, a few tips can help make the process easier.
- It is vital to use the proper fiber-pulling equipment. This includes a fiber puller, a device that attaches to the cable and helps pull it through the conduit. Additionally, you will need a fiber guide, which helps to keep the cable in place and prevents it from bending or kinking.
- Take your time when pulling the fiber optic cable. It is crucial to go slowly and evenly, as this will help prevent damage to the fiber. If possible, have someone else hold the end of the fiber so that you can focus on pulling it smoothly through the conduit.
- Use lubricant when pulling the fiber optic cable. This will help reduce friction and allow the cable to slide more quickly through the conduit. Always use a non-abrasive lubricant, such as soap or glycerin.
- Support the fiber optic cable as you pull it. This means using straps or another support system to hold the fiber in place so it doesn’t sag or become damaged while pulling it through the conduit.
- Don’t try to pull too much fiber at once. It is better to pull smaller sections of fiber so that you can control them better and prevent damage. If you need to pull a large section of fiber, consider breaking it up into smaller sections to pull it more safely and effectively.
Following these tips ensures that your fiber optic cable is pulled correctly and without damage.