Fiber Optic Outdoor Armoured Cable with Multiple Cores (6/8/12/24/48/96/144 Cores)
1. General Description
Fiber optic outdoor armoured cables with 6, 8, 12, 24, 48, 96, or 144 cores are advanced data - transmission solutions designed for outdoor applications. These cables play a crucial role in modern telecommunications and networking infrastructure by providing reliable and high - capacity optical fiber connections.
2. Cable Structure
- Core Configuration:
- The number of cores (6, 8, 12, 24, 48, 96, or 144) represents the individual optical fibers within the cable. Each fiber is capable of transmitting data independently using light signals. For example, a 24 - core cable means there are 24 individual optical fibers that can be used for different data streams or connections. These fibers are usually made of high - purity silica glass, with a core and a cladding layer. The core is where the light travels, and the difference in refractive index between the core and the cladding allows for total internal reflection, guiding the light along the fiber.
- Armouring:
- The armouring of the cable provides enhanced mechanical protection. It is typically made of materials such as steel wires or aluminium alloy tapes. The armouring layer shields the delicate optical fibers from external forces such as crushing, impact, and abrasion. For instance, in a harsh outdoor environment where the cable might be buried underground or exposed to heavy machinery during installation, the armouring prevents damage to the optical fibers inside. This protection is crucial as even a small nick or break in an optical fiber can lead to significant signal loss or complete disruption of data transmission.
3. Applications
- Telecommunications:
- These cables are extensively used in long - distance telecommunication networks. They serve as the backbone for connecting different telephone exchanges, mobile network base stations, and data centers. For example, a 96 - core cable can be used to establish high - capacity links between cities, enabling the transmission of thousands of phone calls, large amounts of Internet data, and other telecommunications services simultaneously.
- Cable Television (CATV):
- In the CATV industry, they are used to distribute a wide range of TV channels and multimedia content to subscribers. The high - capacity nature of these cables, especially those with a larger number of cores like 48 or 144, allows for the transmission of high - definition (HD) and ultra - high - definition (UHD) television signals, as well as on - demand video services. This ensures that viewers receive clear and uninterrupted TV programming.
- Surveillance and Security Systems:
- For outdoor surveillance cameras and security sensors, these armored fiber optic cables provide a reliable means of transmitting video and sensor data over long distances. The immunity of fiber optics to electromagnetic interference (EMI) makes them ideal for use in areas with a lot of electrical equipment or radio frequency interference. For example, in a large industrial complex or a perimeter security system, a 12 - core cable can be used to connect multiple surveillance cameras to a central monitoring station, ensuring the security of the premises.
4. Advantages
- High - Capacity Data Transmission:
- The multiple - core configuration allows for a large amount of data to be transmitted simultaneously. With the increasing demand for high - speed Internet, video - on - demand, and other data - intensive services, these cables can meet the requirements. For example, a 144 - core cable can support a much higher data throughput than a cable with fewer cores, making it suitable for applications that require massive data transfer, such as data centers or high - traffic telecommunications hubs.
- Durability and Longevity:
- Thanks to the armouring, the cable has excellent resistance to environmental factors and physical damage. It can withstand extreme temperatures, moisture, and UV radiation. This durability ensures a long - service life, reducing the need for frequent cable replacements. For example, an outdoor - installed armored fiber optic cable can last for decades, providing a stable and reliable connection throughout its lifespan.
- Immunity to EMI and RFI:
- Fiber optic cables do not carry electrical current and are not affected by electromagnetic interference (EMI) or radio - frequency interference (RFI). This property makes them superior to traditional copper cables in environments where interference is a concern. In a hospital, for example, where there are many medical devices that emit electromagnetic waves, an armored fiber optic cable can ensure the reliable transmission of data without interference for applications such as patient monitoring systems.
