Tuesday, June 24, 2014

Insights On Fibre Optic Cable Installation

By Sherry Gross


In an attempt to enhance reliability and performance of optical fibers, special care is paramount, especially in the process of installation. Some crucial guidelines regarding tensile loads, squeezing, minimum bend radius, and twisting must be considered. As a matter of fact, connectors must be protected free from scratching and contamination at all times. Close attention must be paid to these factors as violation of any parameter causes profound attenuation and damage to the conection. It is therefore worth considering the following insights on fibre optic cable installation.

To begin with, ensure to conduct a site survey. A site survey is simply a preliminary visit of the site in order to have insights on the nature of the work to be undertaken. The survey enables you to come up with probable challenges and providing the solutions thereof. During the survey, the site is analyzed for areas demanding special concern while making estimates of the effort and time needed to carry out the duty. This information is particularly important in planning for cable routing.

The data obtained in the survey stage is then used to design a good cable pulling plan. Through the plan, the team members are briefed on the findings noted in the survey. It contains the logistics on intermediate access points; let-off and splice locations. It is also during this planning that tasks are assigned and specified to the individual group members engaged in the connection.

During this practice, remember to follow the proper procedures. Fibers are sensitive to moisture and thus their ends must be covered using an end cap or heavy tape at all times. When carrying out a pull, never leave the let-off reel unattended as difficult pulls, back-feeding or center-pull techniques may be used.

During the exercise, be sure not to exceed the minimum bend radius. Remember that every wire poses a minimum installation bend radius value. When placing them, it is important not to bend the cables to a smaller radius. On installing and after removing the pulling tension, they may only be bent to a radius not smaller than the specified long term application length of the radius. Coiling and wrapping is allowed as long as it does not violate the constraints of minimum bend radius.

Remember to observe the maximum cable recommended length. Though fiber optics are stronger than copper wires, the maximum tension pulling should not be exceeded in any phase of installation. As a general rule, most wires for outdoor application have a strength ranking of 2700N. There is also a maximum load value for fiber optic that is recommended for long term application.

The residual tension after placement must be less than this specified value. In case of vertical connections, it is advised that the optic wires be clamped at regular intervals to avoid its weight from surpassing the recommended load on the long term. However, the clamping intervals must be adequate to avoid cable movement and provide weight support.

Ensure to document each phase of fixation. Documentation of the same provides a record for future reference and maintenance. The task of documentation should be done systematically to enhance flow and order. When in need of whatever type of connection, remember to check out on the above points.




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