Page 18
Fiberlink® 5018A User’s Manual
Fiberlink® 5018A
Operating Considerations forFiber Optic Cable
The universal data transceiver may be supplied with ST or FCPC type optical connectors
and will operate with most common fiber optic cables. However, it is important to use the
correct type of fiber optic cable as required by your particular transceiver model. Some
models (ending in -1 and -3) are designed for use at 850 nm, while others (ending in -7)
function at 1300 nm.
When using any type of fiber optic cable, be careful not to cause excessive strains, especial-
ly at the cable-to-connector junctions. Also, do not subject the cable to sharp bends or pull
it around sharp corners. Whenever possible, service loops or extra slack should be provided
in any installation. While excessive precautions are not necessary, fiber optic cable should
be treated with moderate care as it does contain thin, fragile strands of glass.
Notes Regarding Fiber Optic Cable
Multimode fiber optic cable contains an optical fiber with a light carrying “core” that is only
.0025 inches (62.5µ) diameter. Single-mode fiber optic cable has an even smaller “core”, only
00032 to .0004 inches (8-10µ). This is smaller than a human hair! Any minute particle of dirt
or dust can easily block this fiber from accepting or radiating light.
As a result, the key word
is cleanliness.
Always use the dust caps provided with all optical connectors whenever they
are exposed to air. Also, it is a good idea to gently clean the tip of an optical connector with
alcohol whenever dust is suspected.
Mechanical butt splices or optical feedthroughs must be installed properly. Multimode
devices will not operate properly with single-mode devices even though they may look the
same. Using the wrong device can easily add more attenuation than specified, resulting in
impaired performance.
Considerations
