A Brief Look at Fiber Optic Cable Repairs – Identifying Issues

A Brief Look at Fiber Optic Cable Repairs – Identifying Issues





Fiber optic cables were once a thing of fantasy, and when they did show up in the real world, they were primarily used in high-performance applications. However, thanks to the evolution of technology, most of us now rely on fiber optic cables for a range of purposes.


Now, fiber optic cables need to be installed in a very different manner compared to how copper wires were once installed. But things get even more complicated when we talk about troubleshooting or fault-finding. Fiber optic cables are fragile, and this makes them vulnerable to multiple issues.







Let’s take a brief look at all the common problems that affect fiber optic cables and provide solutions.


Common Fiber Cable Faults

Troubleshooting a network is hard. So, it’s always a wise idea to know where to begin. Let’s take a look at the common issues that fiber optic cables suffer from.

· Poor quality cables/connectors.

· A faulty splice or connector can lead to signal loss.

· Dirty connectors can cause signal loss.

· An excessive number of splices or connectors can cause signal loss.

· Faulty connection to the panel or in the splice tray.

· Long fiber optic span can cause signal loss.

· Too much flexing and bending can damage the fiber optic cable.




Signal Loss Test

There are simple tests you can carry out to check whether or not a fiber optic cable is in good condition. One such test involves removing the connectors at both ends and shining a light or laser on them. The next step is to see if the light passes through. If there is no light passing through, the fiber optic cable is most likely broken.

In fact, even if light passes through, there could still be some minor damages inside. Though the cable may remain useful, it will eventually fail.

Next, check for signal loss. Signal loss is a major symptom and shouldn’t be ignored. Now, signal loss can be tested by using a method known as “loss testing”. Here, you connect a power meter to an optical light source generator. Then, set the wavelength and dBm.

The power meter will now be able to report any signal loss, once it has been attached to the optical light source.

But before you do all this, make sure you establish a baseline or standard by doing the same with a good fiber optic cable.




Dirty Fiber


Contamination can also cause damages to a fiber optic cable. So, to test for contaminations, you need to make use of a fiber optic microscope. These microscopes are designed to investigate fiber Coptic cables. However, do note that they’re expensive.

At the end of the day, it requires some experience and knowledge to truly diagnose the problems present in a fiber optic cable and repair them. It’s a task that you might not be able to take on completely.

So, get in touch with professional fiber optic cable installation and repairs services like Cantel Telecom at info@canteltelecom.com. Our technicians are skilled in the field of fiber optic cables and will be able to diagnose and troubleshoot with the utmost ease.