How to Connect Fiber Optic Cable

Connect two fiber optic cables.

Connecting fiber optic cables requires a connecting device. There are multiple options to choose from, depending on the conditions that the cable will be exposed to. Fiber optic cable can transfer data much faster and in larger quantities than traditional copper wire, but the connections require more precision for the cable to work. You will have to epoxy and polish the ends of each cable for the data to transfer correctly across the connection.

Things You'll Need

• Sharp knife
• Fiber optic cable
• Fiber optic cable connector
• Small epoxy curing oven
• Fiber optic cable polishing machine
• Cable epoxy

Instructions

1. Remove the outer cable jacket by cutting the jacket with a sharp knife.

2. Peel back the strengthening fibers that surround the inner core of the cable.

3. Cut the inner cable coating using the sharp knife and peel back the foil cladding that covers the actual optical fiber.

4. Insert the exposed fiber into the cable-polishing machine. The polished cable ends will allow the data to transfer correctly across the connection.

5. Insert the polished fiber into the male connector and add cable epoxy until the entire connection is encased.

6. Insert the finished connection into the epoxy-curing oven. Allow the oven to cure the epoxy for approximately 20 minutes.

7. Repeat the process for the female connection and either snap or screw the two cables together, depending on the type of connector you're using.

Tips & Warnings

• Perform fiber optic connecting indoors in a dust-free environment so you don't contaminate the connection.

• When you are cutting into the cable with the knife, cut only the cable jackets, not the fibers underneath. If you cut into these fibers, the connection may not function properly.

• Make sure that you choose the proper connector for the environment in which the cable will be used. There are approximately 12 different connector options.

References

• ARC Electronics: Fiber Optics