ABSTRACT
The purpose of an optical cable is to protect the optical fibre so it can survive the installation process and long-term life in its final envi ronment. The nature of the cable environment is the principal factor in determining optical cable design and in this section we will review all major cable styles and their most appropriate use in cost-effective project planning. The steps in selecting an optical cable are as follows: • What kind of fibre is required and to what specification? • How many fibres are required for the link? (Allowing at least 50%
extra fibres on top of minimum day-one requirements) • What is the environment the cable will be installed in? • What is the most cost-effective cable design to meet the pre
ceding three requirements? Note that full installed cost must be taken into account, not just basic cable cost.
