Monday, June 30, 2014

Insights On 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.

When undertaking the exercise, it is vital to follow the required procedure. Due to their delicate nature when exposed to moisture, the end of the cables must be insulated by an end cap at all times. The process of pulling should not be done when the left-off reel is unattended to since center-pulls, back-feeding and difficult pull techniques may be applied.

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.

Another important factor to consider is the maximum recommended cable length. Despite the fact that fiber optics are much stronger compared to copper wires, it is imperative not to exceed the maximum tension pulling. The general strength ranking for most outdoor cables is 2700N.

Apart from the cable length, there is also the uppermost load value recommended in the long run. As such, the resultant tension after the placement should be less than this value. When installing vertically, be keen to clamp the wires at consistent intervals in order to avoid the resulting weight from exceeding the specified long-term load. Nevertheless, the intervals between clamps must be enough to prevent movement and support the weight.

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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