Brief introduction of Pre-Terminated Fiber Cables

---

 Fiber optic cables are critical to various industries and applications across the world. Unlike traditional copper cables, they are capable of transmitting large volumes of data at high speed. Additionally, they are light and flexible, making them easier to install, maintain, and repair, which has led to them being the go-to option for countless data transmission applications.

Fiber optic cables need to be terminated before they are installed. Termination refers to the process of adding a device to the end(s) of the cable that enables it to be connected to other cables and devices. While the process can be performed in the field, pre-terminated cables are terminated by the manufacturer before shipment and can improve installation efficiency and/or reduce installation costs.

How Are Fiber Cables Terminated?

The fiber optic cable termination process requires a variety of tools and supplies. It involves exposing the fiber elements and attaching them together. The connections formed can be temporary or permanent. Temporary connections use connector components, which are available in many designs to suit different applications. Permanent connections involve splicing, a process in which the bare fibers are connected directly.

Pre-Terminated Fiber Cable vs. Field-Terminated Fiber Cable

As indicated above, fiber cables can be field-terminated or pre-terminated. Field-terminated cables are terminated at the installation site. Pre-terminated cables are terminated at the manufacturing facility.

When Should I Use Pre-Terminated Fiber Optic Assemblies?

Pre-terminated fiber optic cables offer a variety of advantages over field-terminated fiber optic cables. Since they arrive on-site ready to use (i.e., they do not need to be prepared or tested), they are much quicker and easier to install. As a result, they can lead to lower labor costs and a smaller risk of installation error. If you’re looking to reduce project costs, shorten installation timelines, and/or decrease termination issues, pre-terminated fiber optic cables are the perfect solution.

When Should I Not Use Pre-Terminated Fiber Optic Assemblies?

While pre-terminated fiber optic cables are suitable for many applications, they are not suitable for every application. Since they are precut before they arrive on-site, they may not be as accurate or precise in length as field-terminated fiber optic cables. If high accuracy and precision are critical for an application, it may be better to use field-terminated cables to reduce the risk of measurement miscalculation.

Considerations for Pre-Terminated Fiber Optic Cables

There are many design options for pre-terminated fiber optic cable assemblies. Additionally, they are a variety of tools available to facilitate their installation.

Pre-Terminated Fiber Optic Cable Connectors

Fiber cables can be pre-terminated with a range of connector types. New types are regularly hitting the market while existing ones consistently receive improvements. The connector types available at Opticonx include:

LC

SC

APC

MTP

We continuously work with connector manufacturers to ensure we remain up to date on the latest advancements in connector technologies.

Pull Eye Kits

While pre-terminated fiber cables are easier to use than field-terminated fiber cables, they still carry a risk of being strained during the installation process. The PEK series pulling eye kits from Opticonx are designed to protect pre-terminated cables while they are installed in conduits, ducts, or risers. The kits ensure terminations do not experience any stress or strain during installation.