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Monday, June 30, 2014

Factors To Consider During Fibre Optic Cable Installation

By Sherry Gross


Fiber optics that has been improperly placed is susceptible to damage. In order to enhance handling and good performance, it is imperative that some procedures and guidelines be followed in the connection of these cables to prevent damage and limiting their usefulness. This article, therefore, takes you through the pertinent issues and facts during fibre optic cable installation.

The preliminary step in the connection process is to conduct a site survey. The purpose of the survey is particularly to familiarize with the place and to recognize the circumstances and locations that require special attention. During the survey, physical hazards, including high temperatures and operating machinery are noted to enhance planning for cable routing accordingly. The visit also enables you to consider and appreciate the building code regulations and have any questions addressed by the relevant authority within the jurisdiction, including the fire marshal and city building inspector.

After surveying, you then develop an effective cable pulling plan. The plan ought to communicate to the fixation team the considerations noted in the site survey. It entails logistics on cable let-off or pulling equipment, splice and intermediate access point locations. In addition, the plan must outline the particular responsibilities of each and every member of the team involved in the fixation.

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.

The effectiveness of the connection largely depends on the length of the bend radius. There is always a minimum value specified for the bend radius; ensure to observe this value. Bending them to smaller radius than this value is inappropriate. The same value applies when coiling or wrapping the cable. There is no significant limit with regards to coiling, but be sure to do it within the constraint of the minimum bend value.

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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