How To Install A Fiber Optic Cable Connetor

Fiber optic cable connectors are the latest innovation in home broadband and entertainment systems. Fiber optic cables use light pulses which run along the core of the fiber optic cable, which intercept with internal reflectors to create a light path for thousands of bytes of data to pass through. Each individual fiber supports independent channels using various wavelengths of light, to offer a high level, uninterrupted service. Fiber optics is becoming far more widely utilized in homes over the world for use with broadband communications and home theater systems.

Step 1 – Adapting the Cable

The transmitter and the cable need to be able to communicate clearly with one another in order to function at maximum capacity. The type of cable you use depends on the function it will serve. If you are installing broadband fiber optic cables make sure that all the cables that you will be using have been measured correctly to allow enough room for movement and adjustment. If you need to alter the length of a cable or make adjustments, trim them using the correct tools. Splicing is not necessary with fiber optics but it is an option you can use.

Step 2 – The Connector

Be absolutely clear before you proceed, as to which cable connector you are going to need for the project. There are many different kinds of cable connectors for use with broadband internet, home entertainment and gaming systems. Read the manual thoroughly for the item you are installing and check the correct specifications on which connector is the correct type. You can usually look at the way the connector joins to the equipment to judge this. Take a look at your CAT5 broadband cable, for example and note that it is rectangle shaped with a connection similar to that of a telephone, whereas the cable which comes from your TV will be a round connector.

Step 3 – Stripping

The fiber optic cable will look extremely similar to any other cable. It will have a plastic jacket surrounding the innards and act as an insulation to the cable. As with any wiring you need to strip a small amount from the cable end in order to attach the connector to the fiber optic leads. Use a cleaver to strip the cable and expose the inside fibers.

Step 4 – Preparing

The fibers need to be placed exactly to achieve the best results. Any unclean joins or missed fibers will interfere severely with the performance of the cable and lower capacity. The quality of cleave is vital.

Step 5 – Attaching

Closely inspect the exposed end and make certain that there are no loose stray fibers that get left out of the connector. Insert the fiber optic cable into the body of the connector securely. Crimp the cable to the connector to attach them permanently. Test the cable connection by tugged in very gently and confirm it is securely fixed in place. Plug the cable into the electronic item for which it will be used and test its functionality.