Identification of Drop Fiber Optic Cables

Fiber optic drop cables are the final link in FTTH networks, identifiable by their fiber count, reinforcement type, sheath material, and structural design for indoor or outdoor deployment.

Key Features for Identification

Fiber Count and Type: Drop cables typically contain 1 to 12 fibers, with single-mode fibers (G. 652. D or G.

657. A) being most common for long-distance or bend-insensitive applications, and multimode fibers used for shorter distances or enterprise networks. Fibers are often color-coded (blue, orange, green, brown) for easy identification.

Cable Structure: Flat Figure-8 Cables: Feature a central fiber core with two parallel reinforcements (metal or FRP) and sometimes an additional steel wire for self-supporting aerial installations. Round Drop Cables: Contain a single bend-insensitive fiber in a loose tube, surrounded by dielectric strength members like aramid yarn, suitable for indoor or duct installations. Indoor vs.

Outdoor: Indoor cables often have LSZH (Low Smoke Zero Halogen) jackets, while outdoor cables include UV-resistant, water-blocking, and flame-retardant jackets for environmental protection. Reinforcement and Strength Members: Metallic or FRP rods provide tensile strength and lightning protection. Self-supporting designs may include steel wires for aerial deployment, allowing the cable to span poles without additional support.

Sheath Material: LSZH or flame-retardant PVC for indoor safety.

P

E or anti-UV jackets for outdoor durability, often with rodent-resistant or crush-resistant layers. Deployment Considerations: Aerial Drop Cables: Suspended between poles, often flat figure-8 or self-supporting round cables. Underground/Direct-Burial Cables: Round cables with water-blocking and crush-resistant jackets.

Indoor Wiring: Compact, flexible cables suitable for ducts or open wiring inside buildings. Termination Methods: Fusion Splicing: Preferred for permanent, high-performance connections. Mechanical Splicing or Connectors: Used where flexibility or field termination is required.

Common Types and Applications

Indoor Drop Cable (GJXFH, GJXH, GJXKH): Butterfly-shaped flat structure, central fiber, two parallel reinforcements, LSZH sheath, used for FTTH inside homes or offices.

Outdoor Self-

Supporting Drop Cable (GJYXCH, GJYXFCH, GJYXKCH): Central fiber with parallel reinforcements and steel wire, suitable for aerial deployment. Flat Drop Cable: PE sheath, loose tube with optical fiber, two FRP reinforcements, up to 12 cores, used for aerial or duct installations. Round Drop Cable: Single bend-insensitive fiber, dielectric strength member, durable outer jacket, ideal for compact indoor or outdoor applications.

By examining fiber count, structural design, reinforcement type, sheath material, and intended deployment environment, technicians can accurately identify and select the appropriate fiber optic drop cable for FTTH or enterprise network installations.