Category Archive: Fiber Optic Cables

The Basics of Fiber Optic Polarity

Polarity is the direction of flow in an electric current or a magnetic field. In fiber optics, polarity is the direction in which light signals travel through an optic cable. For the signal to flow, the transmit signal (Tx) must match the partnered receiver (Rx).

This guide will discuss fiber optics polarity in more detail, how polarity affects installation, and the fiber optic products available at Opticonx.

What is Fiber Optics Polarity?

As optic cables become increasingly popular for transmitting high-speed data, fiber numbers also increase, making their connections more complex. Thus, users should take the time to understand how fiber optics polarity works. Consider the following factors when determining a solution to a polarity problem:

• General Fiber Polarity: Is the polarity straight, crossed, flipped, or other?
• Gender: Are the paired male and female components properly connected?
• Orientation: Is the orientation KeyUp-KeyUp or KeyUp-KeyDown?
• End-Face Alignment: Is it straight or angled?

How Does Fiber Optics Polarity Affect the Installation of Fiber Optic Cables?

In duplex fibers, data transmission is bidirectional over two fibers: each fiber connects the transmitter on one end to the receiver on the other. The Tx should always connect to the Rx, no matter the number of cable segments or patch panel adapters in the circuit. The role of polarity is to maintain this connection, which is essential for data to flow.

These connections are relatively simple for duplex fibers, but multi-fiber push on connectors, or MPOs, are more complex. Some MPOs can contain eight, 12, or 24 fibers for LAN applications. There are three main deployment methods depending on the types of MPO cables.

Fiber Cable Products Available at Opticonx

Opticonx provides UL-listed ONFR and OFNP cables that meet the highest standards for any application, whether you require a single fiber or custom-manufactured cable. Here are the fiber optic cable types we carry.

2MM and 3MM Simplex

Our simplex cables use a 900um tight-buffered fiber encircled by aramid yarn strength attachments with a pliable flame-retardant riser. These cables are perfect for single fiber connectors. You may choose from a selection of fiber types and add a custom print legend.

2MM and 3MM Duplex

Our duplex zipcord cables use two 900um tight-buffered fibers encircled by aramid yarn strength attachments with a pliable, flame-retardant riser. These cables are perfect for single fiber connectors, namely those with duplex clips or housings. You can choose from different fiber types and add a custom print legend.

2MM 2 Fiber Round for Uniboot

Opticonx 2 Fiber Round cables safely terminate high-density uniboot connectors, including SN, LC, MDC, and CS. Two 600um tight-buffered fibers, aramid yarn strength attachments, and a pliable flame-retardant plenum-rated jacket provide added strength.

3MM 12 Fiber for MTP/MPO

Opticonx 12 Fiber Micro-Distribution style cables are perfect for MPO cables. Featuring a UL OFNP listing, these cables are incredibly versatile. With twelve 250 micron fiber color codes, identification is easy. The aramid yarn strength attachments that come with all our fiber optic cable products form strong cables and secure terminations.

Custom Cables or Custom Extrusion

If you require a non-standard cable, Opticonx can help. We can custom-make or extrude cables to your unique specifications, even for short production runs.

Fiber Optic Cables from Opticonx

As we increasingly depend on fiber optic cables for high-speed data transmission, we must also understand the basics of polarity. Polarity is crucial in maintaining proper connections within fiber optic cables. At Opticonx, we provide fiber optic cable solutions that meet your application’s requirements. Choose from our standard stock, or contact us to place a custom order. If you’re ready to get started, request a quote today.

What Are 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.

Contact Opticonx for Pre-Terminated Fiber Optic Cable Solutions

Want to learn more about pre-terminated fiber optic cables? Ask the experts at Opticonx! Equipped with over 25 years of experience providing industry-leading fiber solutions, our team can answer or address any questions or concerns you may have about these products. Additionally, if you need fiber cables for your next project, we can engineer and manufacture a solution that fully meets even your most demanding specifications and standards.

Contact us today to learn more about our pre-terminated fiber optic cable solutions. Request a quote to get started on your solution.