Fiber U


Outside Plant Fiber Optics

Lesson 6: Fiber Optic Cables


What are the types of fiber optic cables and where are they  commonly used?
 
Objectives: From this lesson you should learn:
The types of fiber optic cables and their applications
Differences between outside plant and premises cables
Specifications for fiber optic cables
Fiber Optic Cable Design


This lesson covers cables of all types but focusing on OSP cables. Fiber optic cable provides protection for the optical fiber or fibers within it appropriate for the environment in which it is to be installed. Cable refers to the complete assembly of fibers, strength members and jacket. Fiber optic cables come in many different types, depending on the number of fibers and how and where it will be installed. In OSP applications, the differences between underground, direct burial, aerial and submarine cables are important to know, as they are optimized for these applications.  It is important to choose cable carefully as the choice will affect how easy the cable is to install, splice or terminate, what it will cost and how long it will last in the field.

The tutorial is a short presentation on fiber types and their applications. The Virtual Hands-On presentation shows how types of fiber cable are prepared for installation and splicing or termination.




Student Assignment:
Watch the videos, read the references and take the quizzes (Test Your Comprehension)

FOA YouTube Videos
FOA Lecture 4: Fiber Optic Cables 
Fiber Optic Cable, Part 1 Introduction  
Fiber Optic Cable, Part 5 Loose Tube Cable
Fiber Optic Cable, Part 6, Armored Cable

Online FOA Reference:
Fiber Optic Cable  
Tutorial: Fiber Optic Cable types and applications  
Virtual Hands-On: Fiber Optic Cable Prep  
Air-blown Fiber

Book Chapter:
           
FOA Reference Guide to Outside Plant Fiber Optics, Chapter 6


Optional - Basic Skills Lab (do-it-yourself "hands-on" lab)


Test Your Knowledge:

Online Quiz
Take the Quiz at the end of Chapter 6 and check your answers

Extra Credit Reading
Guidelines for installing fiber optic cables  
Color codes for premises fiber optic cables  

Next: Lesson 7: Termination and Splicing 


Return to Lesson Plan


 

Table of Contents: The FOA Reference Guide To Fiber Optics


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