Fiber-Optic Patch Cords and Cable Assembly
Fiber-optic patch cords, also known as fiber jumpers, are cables that have standardized fiber optic connectors terminated on both ends. They are used for connecting devices in the data center and other telecommunications rooms.
The maximum length of fiber-optic patch cords depends on the type of cable and connector type. Different types have different transmission capabilities and distance limitations.
Optical Fibers
Optical fibers transmit light signals that carry data over long distances. In a patch cord, optical fibers are enclosed in a protective sheath and terminated with connectors on each end. They’re used to connect devices, such as computers and switches, to enable high-speed data transmission.
The sheath is usually made of fiber-optic-patch-cord-cable-assembly a durable, fire-resistant material like LSZH (Low Smoke Zero Halogen). It offers protection from dust, water and other environmental elements that could damage the delicate fiber strands. In addition, the sheath can shield the strands from physical damage caused by excessive bending or twisting.
Depending on the type of cable, the sheath might also feature strength members and stiffeners. For example, in tactical military grade patch cables, the sheath is reinforced with aramid yarn, known by the duPont trade name Kevlar. This aramid yarn absorbs the tension from pulling and protects the optical fibers from damage.
There are several types of fiber optic patch cords available on the market. Some feature different connector types on each end. Others have the same connector type on both ends. This is called a hybrid fiber optic cable. Other types of patch cables include ribbon fan-out and multi-simplex fiber cable. Ribbon fan-out cable assemblies have ribbon fibers with multiple connectors, while multi-simplex fiber cable is similar to a standard single-mode or multimode cable, except it has different connectors on each end.
Jacket
The jacket is the external covering of a fiber optic patch cable and offers protection. The jacket can be made from a variety of materials, each offering specific characteristics and designated applications. Commonly used jacket materials include polyvinyl chloride (PVC), LSZH, and polyethylene. The jacket material determines the mechanical robustness, chemical and UV radiation resistance, and fire rating of a fiber optic patch cord. The National Electrical Code (NEC) requires a certain degree of fire retardance for fiber cables to be installed in building structures. The NEC requires that any cable that meets their standard be labeled with a UL marker.
The aramid strength members and buffered fiber are housed in a lightweight plastic cover to form a simple cable. This covers the entire assembly and protects it from environmental hazards, such as moisture and heat. The aramid strength members also protect the glass optic fiber from damage. The acrylate coating of the optical fiber is then applied, and it acts as a seal over the aramid strength members and buffered optical fibers.
The strand count and mode type of the optical fiber is printed on the patch cable’s jacket, making identification easy for installers. In addition, the patch cable’s connector types are printed on each end. Typically, one end of the cable has a duplex connector, while the other has a single-mode or multi-mode connector.
Connectors
Fiber patch cords can be equipped with different types of connectors. They are usually paired with two identical connectors on each end. This allows the cables to be quickly and easily joined to other devices such as optical switches or CATV boxes. There are many different kinds of connectors, but LC and SC are the most common.
LC connectors are the most popular type of fiber optic cable connector, and they have a small footprint that is ideal for high-density patch applications. They latch on to adapters using a spring-loaded sliding mechanism. LC patch cables can be used with single-mode or multimode fiber and are suitable for a variety of environmental conditions, including riser, plenum, and duct applications.
Subscriber Connector (SC) connectors feature a push-pull connection, and they have a larger ferrule diameter than LC. This makes them more robust and better suited for harsh environments. Subscriber Connectors can be used with both single-mode and multimode fiber and are suitable for a wide variety of applications, including premises installation and data processing networks.
SMA connectors are smaller than LC and SC connectors, and they have a threaded design that is easier to grip. They can be used with single-mode or multimode cable, and they are available in both armored and unarmored options. Pre-terminated multi-core fiber optic patch cables are becoming increasingly popular for field installations because they eliminate the need for costly splicing. This is especially important in FTTH and LAN applications, where cable lengths can vary significantly.
Termination
One of the most important aspects of a fiber cable is the termination. This includes connectors that can mate two fibers together to form a temporary joint or connect the fibers to network equipment and splices which are multimode fiber optic cable assemblies manufacturer permanent connections between bare fibers. Termination is a complex process with many steps and different products are available to make this job easier, faster and more accurate.
Our pre-terminated fiber cables come with your choice of connectors on both ends. Most commonly these are LC, SC or ST but we can also provide MPO or MTP connectors for high-density applications. The choice of connector style depends on what systems will be using the cable and its length. The connectors are installed by an experienced technician in a factory environment which ensures a higher quality of termination than can be done on-site.
Longer pre-terminated cables can have a splice trays added to the cable which eliminates the need for splicing on-site and reduces installation time. The splice trays also help to protect the splices from dirt and rodents in direct burial installations.
We can also offer field-terminated fiber patch cords which are terminated by a skilled installer in the field before or after the cable installation. This is usually a cheaper option than a pre-terminated cable but the termination quality cannot be as good as the factory-made assemblies. In addition to choosing the right connector style and termination method, the installer must carefully follow the manufacturer’s termination instructions.