Installing a Fibre Optic Network - Understanding the Basics

We will try to give a basic overview of fibre optic systems and how to avoid any problems when installing a fibre optic cable. Also addresses are some serious safety procedures to be aware of. 

Safety first.

When installed on a live system, do not stare down the connector as invisible laser radiation will be present and can seriously damage your eyesight. 

You must also wear safety glasses when working with fibre optics, as the tiny glass tubes can shatter and particles of glass can go in your eyes and hands. 

For a proper fibre optic cable installation, it is vital to understand the cable specifications, the two most important specifications are the tensile loading and bend radius, it is paramount that these are adhered to. 

Tensile loading.

The maximum load installation is one of the two different types of tension fibre comes under. It is sometimes referred to as the dynamic load, short term tension and installation tension. 

This tension should be monitored with either a pulling wheel or a dynamometer and is measured in Newton and pounds. Breakaway eyes are available that separate when a preset load is reached. 

When pulling cable vertically, make sure you are aware of the cable weight and install cables in a sequence that applies the least amount of strain on any cable. For example most building chasers are congested at lower levels, instead start the installation at the top of the building and work down, this way you are less likely to encounter previous cable installations. 

Bend Radius.

Two types of bend radii exist, so we will try to explain them. 

Short term minimum bend radii

This is the tightest recommended bend type while installing cable at the maximum rated tension. And a rough guide is 15 times the cable diameter. 

Long term bend radii.

Sometimes referred to as a static bend type is the tightest recommended bend radius while installing cable at the minimum rated tension. It is the small of the two bend radii. A comparable guide is 10 times the cable diameter.

My Links : Comet Electrical