Over the years, pre-terminated fiber optic cables have become increasingly popular among many people due to their easy installation and consequent convenience. Still, one of the questions that arises in this respect is the issue, of whether such cables can be used outside or not.
Nevertheless, while you read this blog post, one question remains open to most IT professionals and fiber optic cable buyers. Find the answer to if these pre terminated fiber optic cables can be used outside.
Are Pre-Terminated Fiber Optic Cables for Outdoor Applications?
Though the question can rather be answered simply, pre-terminated fiber optic cables can be used outdoors as their characteristics support this type of implication. In other words, they are designed, produced, and rated for such applications. Some points are presented as follows to keep in mind.
- Outdoor-rated connectors: first of all, they should have outdoor-rated connectorswith sealing and protection from moisture, dust, and other environmental challenges.
- Bend Radius: Other factors include bend radius. Cables used outdoors need to undergo a prolonged process that may involve excess bending and stress.
- Environmental testing: Select pre-terminated cables that have passed environmental testing, including temperature cycling, water immersion, and ultraviolet radiation. It offers indicators of their capacity to ensure long-term performance.
- Cable jacket material: the jacket of the cable should be made up of polyethylene or polyurethane which are tough and weatherproof materials. It should be employed for being constantly exposed to sunlight, temperature changes, and sometimes moisture.
- Moisture barrier: it could be useful to have a moisture barrier in the pre-terminated optic cable or the ability to block water to prevent it from getting into the optical cable and damaging the fibers.
Considerations for Outdoor Installation
When installing pre-terminated fiber optic cables outdoors, keep the following best practices in mind:
- Proper cable routing: Planning the cable router can prevent excessive bending or twisting and eliminate stress on the cables. In addition, cablings like conduits or cable trays are sufficient to keep the cables safe from external attempts to damage them.
- Strain relief: Strain relief should be provided at the ends of the connectors or plugs so that the cable cannot be pulled out because of excessive pressure or twisting.
- Sealing and waterproofing: Sealants, heat-shrinkable tubes, or protective caps are used to make good seals but also to be inherently moisture-resistant. This process will help prevent leakage at the connector ends.
- Regular maintenance: A close inspection of the outdoor pre-terminated cables once in a while could be beneficial in trying to figure out if there are any unusual signs of damage, i.e., cracks, streets, connectors, cuts, etc.
Conclusion
Pre-terminated fiber optic cables are applicable outdoors when they are made outdoors-graded. With the best connectors, cable jackets, proper installation techniques, moisture barriers, and maintenance checks, a network professional or a buyer will achieve a well-working outdoor fiber optic network for many years.
Whether you are an IT expert handling a personally managed network project or a buyer looking for effective cabling, it is essential to understand how to use pre-terminated fiber optic cables outdoors. Additionally, one can make educated and independent decisions and work with a trusted and reputable vendor to be protected.
