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Author: James Publish Time: 12-06-2025 Origin: Site
In this article, we are making it understandable, and we are making it usable.
Fiber optic cables that are deployed for outdoor use are created tough. But they too meet a lot of adversities:
Problem | Possible Causes |
Signal drop or no signal | Cable crushed, pulled, water in the joint box |
Random disconnections | Damaged connectors, temperature or moisture effects |
Cable break | Construction damage, storms, animals chewing |
Poor performance | Dusty connectors, loose splices, aging materials |
When users complain of connection issues or signal dropouts, follow this simple checklist:
✅ Step 1: Remember that you have two eyes and observe.
Is the cable hanging, crushed, or bent sharply?
Any broken poles or loose mounting?
Noticed any cracks on the joint boxes, or any signs of water accumulation?
✅ Step 2: Confirm that junction points are intact.
Check the closure: Is there any moisture inside?
Are the connectors clean and tight?
Any exposed fibers, dirt, or corrosion?
✅ Step 3: Use tools to pinpoint effectively.
Tool | What It Does | Why It Helps |
Locates faults and measures loss | Shows where the cable is damaged, by distance | |
Visual Fault Locator (VFL) | Shines red light through the fiber | Helps you see breaks or sharp bends |
Optical Power Meter | Measures signal strength | Tells you if the signal is too weak |
Manual check | Plug/unplug connectors | Rules out simple issues like loose plugs |
Focus on:
Closures exposed to weather
To any evidence of water and animal impairment.
Here’s how to rehabilitate quickly the service and eliminate risk:
Method | Best For | Notes |
Cold connector (mechanical splice) | Last-mile breaks near the home | No fusion needed, quick install |
Fusion splicer | Mid-cable breaks or key connections | Strong and long-lasting fix |
Use spare fiber cores | When spares are available | Just switch fibers — fast recovery |
Temporary jumper/bypass | Short-term workaround | Keep user online while you plan proper fix |
Pro tip: Always restore the connection first, then come back for the perfect repair.
Fiber is reliable - but not indestructible.
Things that damage outdoor fiber:
Sharp bends or tight loops
Pressure from poles, rocks, or heavy objects
UV sunlight and rainwater (especially over years)
Rodents chewing on exposed cable
Poor-quality or aging connectors
What to Check | How Often | Why |
Cable condition (physical check) | Every 3–6 months | Spot damage, crushed points, stress |
Joint boxes / closures | Once a year or before rainy season | Check seal, avoid water damage |
Grounding / lightning protection | Before storm season | Avoid damage from lightning strikes |
Signal testing (OTDR or power meter) | Once a year | Detect hidden signal loss or degradation |
After nearby construction or bad weather | Immediately | Catch third-party damage early |
It is smart having a spare cable - however, it is only good if you are sure it is working once you need it.
Storage Rule | What to Do |
Keep dry and cool | Avoid sun, heat, and moisture |
Use proper cable reel | Prevent tangling or tight bends |
Follow bend radius | Never fold or sharply bend the fiber |
Label clearly | Length, type, storage date |
Inspect every 6 months | Make sure it’s still in perfect shape |
Infrequently, outdoor fiber fails and when it does, it impacts the business performance significantly. Inspect it at least biannually, react promptly to any troubles, and store your spares practically."
James is a technical manager and associate at Zion Communication.
Specializes in Optical Fiber communications, FTTH Solutions,
Fiber optic cables, ADSS cable, and ODN networks.
james@zion-communication.com
+86 13777460328
