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With the growing demand for faster internet speeds and more reliable data transmission, aerial fiber drop cables are no longer a secret, and those considering network installation projects may find them helpful.
But what are aerial fiber drop cables? What should you consider before choosing one? How will they affect your network?
What is an Aerial Fiber Drop Cable?
An aerial fiber drop cable is an optical fiber cable installed solely overhead, typically directly from utility poles to customer buildings. In contrast to ordinary underground cable, the cable is exposed and should be weatherproof, UV-proof, windproof, and mechanically stable.
As it is used in the “last mile” of FTTH or FTTB networks, its performance will directly impact the quality of the internet and communication services.
A fiber drop cable aerial is heavy with light strength, featuring insulation that encircles the center of the fibers, and offers the option for aramid yarn or steel wire reinforcement. The supports allow for suspension of the cable freely between poles without sagging or getting damaged by environmental stress.
Why Cable Strength and Durability Matter
One of the first things that comes to mind when selecting an aerial fiber drop cable is that it must be robust. Since the cable is exposed outside, tension, temperature, rain, and sunlight exposure are unavoidable. A weak cable would result in constant maintenance, loss of signal, or even network collapse.
This is why most aerial fiber drop cables have strength members that serve to support the weight of the cable and protect the fibers inside. Others use self-supporting devices like a messenger wire, while others use all-dielectric self-supporting (ADSS) for power line interference mitigation.
Optimum strength configuration is decided by the conditions of installation — i.e., urban conditions with short spans can support light cables, while rural conditions with higher pole spacings can support higher reinforcement.
Installation and Compatibility: Points to Ponder
A very important point is the way it is installed as the aerial fiber drop cable. Its shape needs to be adaptable to suit site conditions and network equipment already installed. For example, where it has to be installed near power cables, a non-metallic ADSS cable is better because there are fewer chances of electrical interference.
Ease of installation is also influenced by flexibility and cable size. A thinner, more flexible aerial fiber drop cable is easier to bend, handle, and mount on a pole, reducing deployment time and labor cost. In the mass network deployment, this translates to real dollar and time savings.
Backward compatibility with installed fiber connectors and accessories is yet another attribute that experts verify. Fibers, connector style, and jacket material should be compatible with the network requirements to allow seamless integration without additional adapters or conversion modules.
Weather Resistance and Long-Term Reliability
As an aerial fiber drop cable has to be in the open, weather resistance is not a choice but a requirement. UV light in the long run will degrade cable jackets, and rain and moisture will seep into poorly sealed cables and cause signal degradation. Cables expand and contract with temperature variation, and pressure is exerted on the fiber.
These are treated by manufacturers with temperature-stable, water-repellent compounds and UV-resistant external jackets.
- In testing aerial fiber drop cable product-rated temperature range, rating, and weather resistance, you are able to know its performance for decades.
- Choosing a cable with appropriate materials in the outdoors provides you with network reliability for years with minimal or no maintenance.
Choosing the Right Cable for Your Installation
If you’re new to fiber installation, the range of aerial fiber drop cable options might feel overwhelming. The best way to start is by asking three basic questions:
- Where will the cable be installed? – If it’s outdoors and overhead, you’ll need a UV-resistant and weatherproof aerial fiber drop cable.
- What’s the distance between poles or mounting points? – Longer distances require cables with higher tensile strength or self-supporting designs.
- What type of network equipment are you cabling up? – Make sure the fiber type, connector type, and number of cores accommodate your equipment and network equipment.
The specifications matter as well, like how many fibers the cable has. Single-fiber drop can suffice for household use, but multi-fiber cables are best in commercial applications or in expansion space planning.
Final Thoughts
Selecting the ideal aerial fiber drop cable is a balance decision among strength, flexibility, weather, fiber performance, and compatibility.
Resolving these concerns with due diligence assures top-notch connectivity, eliminates maintenance requirements, and future-proofs your network with the increasing data requirement.
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