Fiber optic cables are durable and suitable for a number of applications. Nonetheless, there are some issues that can pop up from time to time.
While fiber optic cables are typically very durable, that doesn’t mean they’re impervious to damage. If installed properly, you shouldn’t have to worry too much about any damage occurring, but for a number of users, an issue is bound to arise eventually. Thankfully, most of these problems are easy to manage—so let’s delve into three common problems that impact fiber optic cables and what you can do about them.
Broken Fibers
The most difficult to handle problems are those that fly under the radar, which is often the case with broken fibers with a cable. A visual inspection of the cable itself won’t reveal any problems, though there are still ways to detect broken fibers in fiber optic cables. Using a fiber optic tracer allows a user to spot potential problems and broken fibers by shining a light through the cable itself.
Overstretched Cables
You might think you can get a little stretch out of your cables to make them reach where you need them to go, but this can damage delicate components within the cable and reduce the cable’s lifespan. This is easily preventable: make sure you are using cables of the correct length right from the start. If you can’t get from point A to point B in your network, don’t try to force it and end up having to replace the cable altogether.
External Damages
The casing that surrounds fiber optics are designed to prevent damage from occurring to the actual fibers, but that casing itself can get damaged as well. It’s meant to protect from basic wear and tear that is to be expected. If you notice any splits or deep scratches, that might be a good reason to pay attention to your performance and see if that physical damage is actually impacting your speeds.
Get in Touch with FiberPlus
FiberPlus has been providing data communication solutions for over 25 years in the Mid Atlantic Region for a number of different markets. What began as a cable installation company for Local Area Networks has grown into a leading provider of innovative technology solutions improving the way our customers communicate and keeping them secure. Our solutions now include:
- Structured Cabling (Fiberoptic, Copper and Coax for inside and outside plant)
- Electronic Security Systems (Access Control & CCTV Solutions)
- Wireless Access Point installations
- Public Safety DAS
- Audio/Video Services (Intercoms and Display Monitors)
- Support Services
- Specialty Systems
- Design/Build Services
FiberPlus promises the communities in which we serve that we will continue to expand and evolve as new technology is introduced within the telecommunications industry.
Have any questions? Interested in one of our services? Call FiberPlus today 800-394-3301, email us at info@fiberplusinc.com, or visit our contact page. Our offices are located in the Washington, DC metro area, Richmond, VA, and Columbus, OH. In Pennsylvania, please call Pennsylvania Networks, Inc. at 814-259-3999.
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