What is an optical fiber?
An optical fiber is a thin piece of glass used for transmitting optical signals. A fiber is comprised of three layers: the core, cladding, and coating. The core is the area of the fiber where the light is transmitted. The larger the core, the more light that can be transmitted. The cladding is composed of a material with a different optical property than the core. The purpose of the cladding is to reflect the light back into the core so that the light is transmitted through the fiber. The coating is a layer applied to protect the fiber from stress.
Superior Essex recommends that an armored cable is used in direct bury applications. Armored cables provide superior protection against the rigors of direct burial during installation as well as the long term hazards such as rodents and the occasional fence or mailbox post. In addition, dielectric cables are more difficult to locate post-installation, making them more susceptible to future excavations in the proximity.
