What are Top Causes Of Fiber Optic Cable Damage and Interference?

Fiber optic cables have the ability to transmit huge amount of data through long distance at lightning speed.Though fiber optics is known for reliability , it is not invulnerable.  Every fiber optic cable installer or a company that deals in optical installation needs to know the reasons behind reasons which can damage fiber cable. This blog will cover the most common reasons of damage and suggest how to prevent them.

Physical Damage 

When fiber optic cable is stretched or compressed, it can cause physical damage. This is a situation where a cable maintenance is required. When cables are overwrapped, twisted, or bent, they regularly exceed their recommended parameters. This can cause either microbends or macrobends. These greatly degrade the performance of the cable. A qualified fiber optic cable installer will obey the manufacturer’s bend radius and adhere to pulling tension. Damage can be avoided with help of right tools and professional experts. It is a major reason why professional experts must be hired for fiber cable work instead of cheap DIY methods. 

Environmental Factors: 

The outer protective layer or sheath of fiber optics is not invulnerable. It is affected by extreme weather, moisture and UV radiation. This ultimately leads to fiber cracking, splitting, and breaking. A good fiber optic installation company would provide fiber cables that are tailored to the environmental conditions at your location. There are fiber cables now which comes with the  best jackets for cables and uses a seal which protects against moisture.

Rodent Damage

Fiber optic cables are susceptible to rodents of all sizes. They tend to chew cables, which causes a cut or the signal to go off. In order to minimize this hazard, fiber optic cable installers will make use of cables that are resistant to mice. These cords come with an additional durable out-of-doors coating that resists zipped chewing. Also, installing cables in conduit or even deeper underground can make them less susceptible to rodent damage.

Incorrect Splicing 

In fiber optic installation and maintenance, splicing and connectorization are critical. If implemented poorly, they can cause massive dwindling and disruption. A sufficiently gap-free connection can never be achieved in case the fibers are out of alignment or encrusted with dirt and debris as a result of poor cleaving. Good fiber optic splicing and connectorization tools need to be purchased by the best complete installation company. They also make sure that their technicians are sufficiently trained in insulation and air sealing techniques. They do this (by keeping signal losses and interference down to a minimum) with tidy connections.

Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) 

Although fiber optic cables are invulnerable to electromagnetic interference (EMI) themselves. But if  installed improperly, they will be exposed to EMI from electrical cables. This will happen when the cable is installed close to power lines or in very strong electromagnetic environments. To minimize EMI impact , many fiber optic installation companies follow best practices and ensure a distance between two Ethernet or LAN cables is set. Where necessary, they employ suitable protection techniques which reduces interference.

Accidental Human Interference 

One of the important reasons for damaging fiber optic cables is human error. This can include abrasive cuts during bodily harm or injury, rough handling due to servicing, and unintended harsh exposure environments. A competent fiber-optic cable installer anticipates and works to prevent interference from human sources. The precautions ranges from labeling cables correctly and training staff to routine maintenance checks. They have to teach every single person, which is likely to reduce the chances of unintentional harm.

Aging Infrastructure 

Even the best fiber-optic cables degrade over time. Signal loss, attenuation, and wear on a physical level are some of the major problems generated by aging infrastructure. These type of issues may be particularly common within older installations. An innovative fiber optic installation company inspects its installations according to a plan. They target aged cables and replace them prior to their failure, reduces chances of disruption. This can be done, for example, through the replacement of network components. Upgrading to new and stronger cables is also a sought-after means by which those who maintain networks keep them in good condition.

Poor Cable Management 

This makes sense because correct cable management is so important to prevent cables from being damaged and interfering with signal currents. Malfunction often occurs from physical damage to tangled, overstretched, or disorganized cables. Good fiber management includes conduit installation, labels and tieups.These are signs of a professional cabling job by the fiber optic cable installer. That not only avoids damage but also simplifies maintenance and ensures its effectiveness in the future. 

Conclusion 

As such, being aware of the most common causes of trouble regarding fiber optic cables is invaluable for anyone installing and/or maintaining these networks. A fiber optic cable installer who follows best practices and remains vigilant is able to prolong the lifespan of the cables. Quality materials, expert training, and careful planning are all needed for an intelligent fiber optic installation company to navigate the pitfalls of fiber installations.