Optimal Methods for Storing Fiber Optic Cable
Managing fiber optic cable infrastructure can be a time-consuming process that often leads to service interruptions for downstream customers. Therefore, it is crucial to minimize the need for cutting and splicing fiber optic cables. One effective strategy is to include additional fiber cable along the lines, allowing for easier pole replacements or road crossings when necessary.
Located in Ellijay, GA, ETC Communications (ETC) is a family-owned company with a rich history spanning over 100 years. Serving approximately 17,000 customers in northern Georgia and southeastern Tennessee, ETC relies on fiber optic cable to deliver telephone, cable TV, and high-speed Internet services. As part of their installation practice, ETC typically incorporates 25 to 50 feet of spare cable approximately every fifth span. This leads us to the question at hand:
How should the extra fiber cable be stored?
Option 1: Coiling
One approach is to coil the additional cable and attach it to the pole. However, coiling can result in light loss. Fiber optic cables transmit information through light that travels along the glass fibers within the cable. Bending the cable, particularly in cold conditions, can cause some light to dissipate. Van Powell, the Construction Manager for ETC, explains, "We do experience cold weather about four or five times a year, with temperatures dropping below 10°F. When it gets below 18°F, excessive light loss occurs in our long cable runs with numerous coils." In addition to potential signal attenuation, storing coils on utility poles occupies space and exposes them to potential damage from linemen climbing the poles.
Option 2: "Snowshoes"
ETC employs "snowshoe" storage systems to house the excess fiber cable along the line. Snowshoes allow for slack to be stored within the span, minimizing the risk of damage and eliminating the need for extra pole space. ETC's storage systems have a turning diameter of approximately 20 inches. By installing two units at an appropriate distance, the cable can be stretched between them, significantly reducing the number of turns required—from hundreds down to just two. This method effectively addresses the issue of light loss.
The Advantage of the Opti-Loop® Storage System
While ETC has previously used products from various vendors, they recently tested the Hubbell Power Systems, Inc. (HPS) Opti-Loop® storage systems. Powell explains, "Numerous companies offer similar systems, and we have tried different types in the past. Last year, Phil Peppers from ProCom Sales provided us with five sets of the Opti-Loop storage systems for testing. We installed them and were impressed." Although fiber optic snowshoes, in general, address the storage challenge, the Opti-Loop storage systems offer a distinct advantage—they are remarkably easy to install. Powell elaborates, "The poles have a twisted aluminum support wire that holds the fiber optic cable. Using a bucket truck, we attach each snowshoe to that cable with a bolt and clamp. The fiber optic cable is fastened to the snowshoes using zip ties, and we secure it along the support wire using lashers (small coils). Mounting a pair of snowshoes takes merely 15 minutes. The Opti-Loop storage system is competitively priced and offers swift and effortless installation." Powell concludes on a positive note.
by Administrator
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