Choose the Right Fibre Optic Cable: A Guide!
When you talk about a fibre optic cable, you refer to the whole assembly of strength members, jackets and fibres. These cables come in different types. Therefore, you must understand the underlying characteristics of each cable type to get something that suits your needs. What are some of the considerations to bear in mind? First, think about the working environment of the cables. Exposure to elements such as harsh chemicals will certainly affect the cable. Secondly, consider physical stress that could damage the cable structure and interfere with data transmission. The following discussion will come in handy when you are selecting fibre optic cables for your business needs:
Breakout Cables
Breakout fibre optic cables comprise several simplex cablings bundled into one. The resulting bundle has a robust, rugged design with a large build. Certainly, the mere size of the bundle makes it quite costly compared to other types of fibre optic cables. Breakout cables are ideal for riser, conduit run and plenum cabling applications. The provider reinforces each cable individually, and that facilitates quick termination from connectors without needing boxes and connectors.
It is worth noting breakout cables can be a cost-friendly option over short distances and installations that do not require a high fibre count.
Tight-buffered Cables
Tight buffered cables come as multiple tight-buffered fibres tied into one jacket. The composition also has strength members and fibreglass rods to stiffen things up. Having a fibreglass rod is critical for keeping the cable from kinking after installation. Usually, tight-buffered cables excel in short and dry-conduit installations. You can use them for plenum and riser applications because the double buffers allow direct termination when necessary. However, the lack of individual fibre reinforcement calls for a breakout box or termination using a junction box.
Simplex and Zip Cord
Simplex and zip cord are another popular type of fibre optic cable for your business applications. The cables feature several strength elements jacketing one tight-buffered fibre cable. The zip cord comes as two simplex cables joined into one via a thin web. Both types of cables suffice for backplane applications, but the zip cords have a larger scope of use because you can use them for desktop applications.
Armoured Cables
Armoured cables are unique as their installation occurs by burying them directly. They are ideal for installations where rodents are an inherent risk to your data cables. The cables have a metal armour between the two jackets enclosing them to prevent attacks by rodents. Proper grounding must accompany the installation of armoured cables, as the presence of a metallic armour means that the cable is conductive.
Contact a Cat6 data cabling installer to learn more.