While your standard fiber optic cable may be more durable than traditional copper cabling in some ways, there are still issues that pop up. Understanding what those problems may be, and what calls for actual repairs or replacement, is a critical part in maintaining an effective cable infrastructure. For many, network downtime can result in huge losses for a business, and while investing in fiber means that you’re less likely to experience said downtimes, knowing what may be going on with a problematic fiber optic cable can go a long way.
Broken Fibers
While fiber optic cables may be durable and stand the test of time, they’re also somewhat delicate when it comes to the actual installation process. Once in place, the correctly selected fiber can stand up to various weather conditions or any shifts in how your network is set up, but actual installation leaves them prone to being bent or turned in certain directions that can cause damage. If the fibers within a fiber optic cable are actually broken, it’s likely that the cable will need to be outright replaced rather than repaired.
Stretched-Out Fiber Cables
If you’re installing your own fiber optic cables, or if an inexperienced installer is on the job, improper installation methods could potentially cause the cable to stretch. Knowledgeable and properly trained installers should always use BICSI approved installation methods along with a properly sized fiber cable during installations to avoid any such issues. Once a fiber optic cable is stretched, it can cause damage to the internal composition of the cable and not pass certification or work at all which would then require replacement by properly trained personnel.
Bad Connectors
There are various kinds of connectors that are used to terminate fiber optic cables to connect the cable to some other kind of device. It’s always important to ensure you’re using the right connectors and that everything fits properly, otherwise you may experience interruptions or even incompatibilities. Unlike the actual fibers within a cable, connectors can be replaced, in the event that you experience connector problems.
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 networks)
- Electronic Security Systems (Access Control & CCTV Solutions)
- Wireless Access Point installations
- Public Safety DAS – Emergency Call Stations
- 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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