Fiber optic cables are used to transmit data over long distances by using light signals. Two common types of fiber optic cables are indoor optical cables and All-Dielectric Self-Supporting (ADSS) optical cables. While both types of cables are designed for data transmission, they differ in their construction, installation, and application. In this article, we will discuss the differences between indoor optical cables and ADSS optical cables.
Construction:
Indoor optical cables are designed for indoor use and are constructed with a tight buffer or loose tube design. They are composed of a central strength member, optical fibers, and a protective sheath. The tight buffer design consists of a single or multiple optical fibers, with each fiber being surrounded by a protective buffer layer. The loose tube design consists of several optical fibers bundled together in a plastic or gel-filled tube. Indoor optical cables are available in various sizes and fiber counts, depending on the application.
ADSS optical cables, on the other hand, are designed for outdoor use and are constructed without any metal components. They are composed of a central strength member, optical fibers, and a protective sheath. The central strength member is made of a non-metallic material, such as aramid fibers or fiberglass rods, which provide support and protect the optical fibers. The protective sheath is made of a weather-resistant material, such as polyethylene, which protects the optical fibers from moisture, UV radiation, and other environmental factors. ADSS optical cables are designed to be self-supporting, which means that they can be installed without the need for additional support structures, such as poles or towers.
Installation:
Indoor optical cables are typically installed in a controlled environment, such as inside a building or data center. They are installed using conduit, tray, or plenum spaces, and require special connectors and termination methods. Indoor optical cables can be installed either vertically or horizontally, depending on the application.
ADSS optical cables, on the other hand, are designed to be installed outdoors, typically along power lines or other utility poles. They are installed using a specialized hardware kit, which includes cable clamps, tension devices, and pole attachments. ADSS optical cables are installed in a horizontal configuration, using a sag-tension method, which ensures that the cable remains under tension even in windy conditions. This method also ensures that the cable maintains its shape and does not deform over time.
Application:
Indoor optical cables are typically used for short-distance communication, such as in buildings, data centers, or campus networks. They are suitable for transmitting data at high speeds over short distances and can support a wide range of applications, including voice, video, and data transmission.
ADSS optical cables, on the other hand, are designed for long-distance communication and are suitable for use in high-voltage power transmission lines, railways, and other outdoor applications. They are designed to withstand harsh environmental conditions, such as extreme temperatures, high winds, and heavy rain, without degrading performance. ADSS optical cables are also suitable for use in areas where electromagnetic interference (EMI) is a concern, as they are not affected by EMI.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, indoor optical cables and ADSS optical cables differ in their construction, installation, and application. Indoor optical cables are designed for indoor use and are constructed with a tight buffer or loose tube design. They are installed in a controlled environment and are suitable for transmitting data over short distances. ADSS optical cables, on the other hand, are designed for outdoor use and are constructed without any metal components. They are installed using a specialized hardware kit and are suitable for transmitting data over long distances in harsh environmental conditions. Both types of cables have their own unique features and advantages and are suitable for different applications.
