Fiber optic cables have revolutionized the way information is transmitted. With their ability to transmit data at high speeds over long distances, fiber cables are widely used in various industries, including telecommunications, networking and broadcasting. However, they lack the ability to carry electrical power. This is where composite fiber optic cables come into play. But what exactly are these cables, and how can they be installed and used effectively?
What’s a Composite Fiber Optic Cable?
The composite fiber optic cable is a type of cable that combines both fiber optic and copper conductors within a single cable sheath. This hybrid construction allows for the simultaneous transmission of data using fiber optics and electrical power or additional data using copper conductors. Composite fiber optic cables are commonly used in applications where both optical and electrical connections are required, such as in surveillance systems, data centers, and industrial automation.
- 300M Composite Fiber Optic Cable
This composite fiber optic cable is 100% factory-terminated, tested and certified. It’s made of two single-mode fiber strands and 16 AWG copper wires to transmit data and power over long distances. This fiber cable is pre-terminated with LC connectors and labeled with A/B tags so you can identify and organize the cable more easily. When pulling a cable through conduits, ducts, or other pathways, tension and stress can be exerted on the cable. The pulling eye provides a secure attachment point, distributing the pulling force evenly along the length of the cable, minimizing the risk of damage.
How to Use the Composite Fiber Optic Cable?
To begin, you need to gather all the accessories and equipment required:
- Waterproof Industrial-Grade Fiber PoE Media Converter
Compatible with the IEEE802.3at standard, this waterproof Fiber PoE media converter can deliver a maximum power output of 30W. It is designed with an IP67 waterproof metal housing to protect the internal components from moisture, dust and other environmental elements. Also, it has a wide input voltage range (24V~56V DC), which enhances its resilience to voltage fluctuations or variations in the power supply.
- BiDi SFP Fiber Modules
BiDi SFP modules, also known as bi-directional small form-factor pluggable modules, are devices used to facilitate the seamless conversion between Ethernet and optical signals. Unlike traditional SFP transceivers, BiDi SFP modules enable bidirectional data transmission over a single optical fiber strand. They’re commonly used in point-to-point and FTTH deployments, particularly in scenarios where the installation of two separate fibers is challenging or costly.
- DIN-Rail Hybrid Distribution Box
This hybrid distribution box provides an organized way to terminate and secure the composite fiber optic cable, ensuring a tidy and efficient setup. With a compact size, it can be easily snapped onto the DIN rail without additional mounting hardware. Additionally, this distribution box is made from durable materials to withstand the harsh conditions commonly found in industrial settings, which makes it ideal for industrial automation, transportation, power utilities, etc.
- Industrial 48V DC 120W Power Supply
A reliable DC power supply is necessary to provide the required electrical power to the composite fiber optic cable. This 48V DC power supply can provide 120 watts of power with 92.5% working efficiency. And it can operate with power sources ranging from 90V to 264V DC.
Installation Guide
Here is a detailed step-by-step guide on how to install the composite fiber optic cable.
Step 1: Plan the Installation Route
Before you begin it’s essential to take into account the distance and route the cable will need to travel. Consider the optimal pathways environmental conditions, avoiding obstacles, sharp bends, or any potential obstacles.
Step 2: Strip the Protective Tube
Before you begin the installation process, it’s important to remove the protective tube from the composite fiber cable. Once the protective tube is removed, separate the fiber optic strands from the copper wires.
Step 3: Connect the Router to the Media Converter
Use a standard Ethernet cable to connect one of the LAN ports on the router to the input port on the media converter.
Step 4: Connect the Media Converter to the Distribution Box
Plug a BiDi SFP module into the SFP slot on the media converter. Take a fiber patch cord, and connect one end of the cable to the converter and the other end to one of the LC adapters on the hybrid distribution box. Next, connect the 48V DC power supply to one of the terminal blocks on the hybrid distribution box.
Step 5: Connect the Composite Fiber Optic Cable to the Distribution Box
First, remove the panel from the distribution box and run the composite fiber optic cable through the cable entry point. Connect one fiber strand to the LC adapter inside the box, and connect the copper wires to the DC terminal block.
Step 6: Run the Cable to Another Distribution Box
Run the composite fiber optic cable to another distribution box located near the connected devices, such as IP cameras or wireless access points. Secure the cable along its route using appropriate hangers or clamps.
Step 7: Connect the Fiber PoE Media Converter to the Distribution Box
First, plug a BiDi SFP module into the SFP slot the fiber PoE media converter. Next, take another fiber patch cord, and connect one end to the corresponding LC adapter on the distribution box, and the other end to the fiber PoE media converter. Then, repeat the same process to install the copper wire.
Step 8: Connect the PoE Device
Finally, connect the device to the media converter with an Ethernet cable. Power on the system, and verify that all devices are receiving power and functioning correctly.
By following proper installation guidelines and leveraging the versatility of composite fiber optic cables, you can create a robust and efficient network infrastructure capable of meeting the demands of diverse connectivity applications. Stay connected, stay efficient, and unlock the full potential of composite fiber optic technology.
