DETECON AL-SAUDIA CO.

LTD
LDTN Project

Handbook
On
Fiber Optic Cable
Maintenance

Prepared
Colour scheme
Reviewed
Checked
Approved

Fayyaz Ahmad Sheikh

Reinhold Mueller
Mohamed Barray
Juergen Fiebach
Johann Graf

SE Engineering Cable
Com Engineer Central
Course Developer
Manager Operation
Project Manager

May 10, 2005

May 11, 2005
May 16, 2005
May 16, 2005
May 16, 2005

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Fayyaz Ahmad Sheikh
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SE Engineering Cable LDTN HQ RYD

Thank you so very much

Johann Graf
&

Juergen Fiebach
For never ending support and guidance

You are a huge part of my ability to be productive and prolific

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Fayyaz Ahmad Sheikh
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SE Engineering Cable LDTN HQ RYD

Content:
1.

DEFINITION OF FIBER OPTIC....................................................................... 4

1.1
1.2
1.3

BASIC CONSTRUCTION OF OPTICAL FIBER........................................................4

CONSTRUCTIONAL DETAILS OF FIBER OPTIC CABLE.......................................5
TYPES OF FIBER OPTIC CABLES.........................................................................6

2.

DEFINITIONS OF TERMS USED IN FIBER OPTIC CABLE...................... 7

3.

FIBER OPTIC SPLICING.................................................................................10

3.1
3.2

PREPARATION OF FIBER OPTIC CABLE FOR SPLICING....................................10

OPTICAL FIBER SPLICING PROCESS..................................................................11

4.

TESTING OF FIBER OPTIC LINK.................................................................12

4.1 TOOLS AND TEST EQUIPMENT FOR THE JOB....................................................12

4.2 MEASUREMENT OF OPTICAL POWER & LOSS.................................................12
4.2.1 MEASURING POWER..........................................................................................12
4.2.2 TESTING LOSS...................................................................................................12
4.2.3 REFERENCING OPTICAL LOSS TEST UNIT.........................................................14
4.2.4 FIBER LOSS VARIABLES....................................................................................16
4.2.5 CALCULATING LINK LOSS.................................................................................17
5.

OTDR TRACE ANALYSIS................................................................................18

5.1 OTDR PARAMETERS.........................................................................................19

5.1.1 WAVELENGTH...................................................................................................19
5.1.2 INDEX OF REFRACTION....................................................................................19
5.1.3 PULSE WIDTH OR DURATION............................................................................19
5.1.4 RANGE OR DISTANCE........................................................................................19
6.

CLEANING OF CONNECTORS......................................................................21

7. SPECIFICATIONS AND PROCEDURES FOR CABLE INSTALLATION

& REPAIRS................................................................................................................ 22
7.1
7.2

CABLE DEPTH.....................................................................................................22
SPLICE POINTS...................................................................................................24

8.

POINTS TO REMEMBER................................................................................ 25

8.1

SAFETY FIRST!....................................................................................................25

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8.2
8.3
8.4

ZERO TOLERANCE FOR DIRT............................................................................26

TOOLS AND MATERIALS.....................................................................................26
DOCUMENTATION AND RECORD MAINTENANCE..............................................26

9. CHECK LIST AND PROCEDURES FOR FINAL REPAIR/RELOCATION

OF FIBER OPTIC CABLE.......................................................................................27
9.1
9.2
9.3
9.4
9.5
9.6
9.7
9.8

CIVIL WORKS & PREPARATION IN THE FIELD..................................................27

ORGANIZING MDT/TC......................................................................................27
LIST OF TOOL & TEST EQUIPMENT...................................................................28
STAFF ARRANGEMENTS......................................................................................29
EXECUTION OF TC/MDT..................................................................................29
TEST REQUIRED.................................................................................................30
PRIORITY OF SYSTEMS.......................................................................................30
EMERGENCY REPAIR PROCESS.........................................................................31

10.

COLOUR SCHEME.........................................................................................32

10.1
10.2
10.3
10.4

24 FIBER (6 TUBES - 4 TUBES)..........................................................................32

24-36 FIBER.......................................................................................................33
24-48 FIBER.......................................................................................................34
STANDARD COLOUR SCHEME...........................................................................35

Figures:
Figure 1: Basic construction of optical fiber..................................................................4
Figure 2: Constructional Details of Fiber Optic Cable..................................................5
Figure 3: Some useful tools............................................................................................9
Figure 4: Loop back method........................................................................................14
Figure 5: Side by side method......................................................................................15
Figure 6: OTDR trace analysis.....................................................................................18
Figure 7:Cable trench...................................................................................................22

Tables:
Table 1: Attenuation Criteria........................................................................................17
Table 2: showing depth of Buried Fiber Optic Cables.................................................22

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1. Definition of Fiber Optic

Fiber Optic is a thin strand of highly transparent glass or sometimes plastic that guide
light. It is used as a medium for carrying information from one point to another in the
form of light. A basic fiber optic system consists of a transmitting device, which
generates the light signal; an optical fiber cable, which carries the light; and a
receiver, which accepts the light signal transmitted. The fiber itself is passive and does
not contain any active properties

1.1 Basic Construction of Optical Fiber

Coating
Cladding

Coating
250m

Cladding Core
125m
8.3 ~ 9m

Core
Cross Sectional View of a Single Mode Fiber

Side View of a Single Mode Fiber

Figure 1: Basic construction of optical fiber

Core: The centre of the fiber through which the light is transmitted
Cladding: The outside optical layer of the fiber that traps the light in the core and
guides it along and even through curves
Buffer coating or primary coating: A hard plastic coating on the outside of the fiber
that protects the glass from moisture or physical damage.
Fiber optic cable functions as a "light guide," guiding the light introduced at one end
of the cable through to the other end. The core and cladding are manufactured
together as a single piece of silica glass. The core regions refractive index (or optical
density) is greater than the cladding layer. The glass does not have a hole in the core,
but is completely solid throughout. The light is "guided" down through the core. The
cladding traps the light in the core using an optical technique called "total internal
reflection. The third section of an optical fiber is the outer protective coating called
the "primary buffer coating". This coating is typically an ultraviolet (UV) light-cured
acrylate applied during the manufacturing process to provide physical and
environmental protection for the fiber. During the installation process, this coating is
stripped away from the cladding to allow proper termination to an optical
transmission system.
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1.2 Constructional Details of Fiber Optic Cable

Steel sheath for

Grounding

Outer Sheath
(Jacket)

Thread and Paper

Dielectric Strength
Element (Kevlar)

Optical fibers

Gel Filled
Buffer Tubes

Central Strength
Member

Gel-Filled Buffer Tube

Optical Fibers
Central Strength Member
Dielectric Strength
Element (Kevlar)
Thread & Paper
Steel for Grounding
Outer Sheath (Jacket)
Double Layer for Direct
Buried & Single Layer
for Duct Cable
Water Blocking Material
(Jelly)
Rip Cord

Figure 2: Constructional Details of Fiber Optic Cable

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1.3 Types of Fiber Optic Cables

There are two types of fiber optic cable commonly used:
1. Multi Mode Cables: Over the years a variety of core sizes have been produced
but these days there are only two main sizes for Multimode fibers. These cables
are most widely used in data networks. The numbers 50/125 & 62.5/125 represent
the diameters of the fiber core and cladding; these are measured in microns, which
are millionths of a metre
2. Single Mode Cables: Single Mode cable has a core diameter of 8.3 to 10 microns.
It is the most commonly used cable in Telecommunication for transmission
systems. The numbers 8.3/125 represent the diameters of the fiber core and
cladding
Note: Both multimode and single mode fibers have an outside diameter of 125
microns - about 5 thousandths of an inch - just slightly larger than a human hair.

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2. Definitions of Terms used in Fiber Optic Cable

Terminations
Patch panels
Connector
Ferrule
LC Connector
SC connector

MU Connector

ST Connector

Provides a centralized location for patching fibers, testing,

monitoring and restoring cables.
A non-permanent device for connecting two fibers or fibers to
equipment where they are expected to be disconnected occasionally
for testing or rerouting. It also provides protection to both fibers.
A tube, which holds a fiber for alignment, usually part of a
connector
LC stands for Latched Connector and its interconnect is based upon
the RJ-45 telephone interface. The LC Connector uses Zirconia
ceramic ferrules in a free-floating and pull proof design
SC Stands for Single Coupling. It is Square shaped snap-in
connector that latches with a simple push-pull. The SC connector
has the advantage (over ST) of being duplexed into a single
connector clip with both transmit/receive fibers
The MU stands for Miniature Unit fiber-optic connector, which
features compact size, high packaging density, and high
performance and a simple push-pull design. The MU connector
ferrules are half the size of the standard FC, SC connectors and are
excellent for high-density installations
ST Stands for Straight Tip. The ST connector is spring-loaded
bayonet mount and have a long cylindrical ferrule to hold the fiber

FC Connector

The FC stands for "Face Contact" The anti-rotation key prevents

fiber end face damage and rotational sensitivity and the floating
ferrule prevents shock and vibration.

PC Connector
FPC Connector
APC Connector

Physical Contact Connector

Flat Physical Contact Connector
Angled Physical Contact Connector

SPC Connector
UPC Connector

Super Physical Contact Connector

Ultra Physical Contact Connector

Splicing
Splice enclosures
Splice panels
Splice
Mechanical Splice
Fusion Splice
Fusion Splicer

For long cable runs outside, the point where cables are spliced
sealed up and buried in the ground, put in a vault of some kind or
hung off a pole.
Connect individual fibers from cables to pigtails
A permanent joint between two fibers
A splice where the fibers are aligned by mechanical means
A splice created by fusing two fibers together
An instrument that splices fibers by fusing them, typically by
electrical arc

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Measurements
Attenuation
Bandwidth
Chromatic
dispersion
Decibels (dB)
dBm
Nanometer (nm)
Optical Loss
Optical Power

Optical Return Loss,

back reflection
Power budget
Polarization Mode
Dispersion
Refractive index
Scattering
Wavelength

Test Equipment
Optical Power Meter
Laser Source
Optical Loss Test Set
(OLTS)
Reference Test
Cables
Mating Adapter
Optical Microscope

The reduction in optical power as it passes along a fiber, usually

expressed in decibels (dB).
The range of signal frequencies or bit rate within which a fiber
optic link or network will operate.
A property of optical fiber due to which different wavelengths
travel at different speeds and arrive at different times, resulting in
spreading of a pulse in an optical wave guide.
A unit of measurement for optical power, which indicates relative
power. A -10 dB means a reduction in power by 10 times.
Absolute Power, Optical power referenced to 1 milliwatt
A unit of measure used to measure the wavelength of light
(meaning one one-billionth of a meter)
The amount of optical power lost during transmission of through
fiber, splices, couplers, etc. expressed in dB.
It is measured in "dBm", or decibels referenced to one milliwatt of
power. While loss is a relative reading, optical power is an absolute
measurement, referenced to standards. Absolute power is measured
to test transmitters or receivers and relative power to test loss.
Light reflected from the cleaved or polished end of a fiber caused
by the difference of refractive indices of air and glass.
The total amount of power lost in the link. Often used in terms of
the maximum amount of loss that can be tolerated by a given link.
The spreading of a pulse in an optical wave guide by virtue of
different light paths lengths is called Modal dispersion.
A measure of the speed of light in a material, a property of optical
materials that relates to the velocity of light in the material
The change of direction of light after striking small particles that
causes loss in optical fibers and is used to make measurements by
an OTDR
A term for the colour of light, usually expressed in nanometres
(nm) or microns (m). Fiber is mostly used in the infrared region
where the light is invisible to the human eye.

An instrument that measures optical power from the end of a fiber

An instrument that uses a laser or LED to send an optical signal
into fiber for testing loss of the fiber
A measurement instrument for optical loss that includes both a
power meter and laser source
Short, single fiber cables with connectors on both ends, used to test
unknown cables.
Also called couplers, allow two cables with connectors to mate.
Used to inspect the end surface of a connector for dirt.

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Fiber Stripper

Cleaning Tape

Round Jacket Stripper

Longitudinal Cable
Jacket Slitter

No-Nik Stripper

Cutter

Buffer Tube Stripper

Cable cutter
Air Jet
Buffer Tube Stripper

Hand Air
Blower

Scissor (Kevlar cutter)

Tweezers

Cleaver

Isopropyl Alcohol Swab

Figure 3: Some useful tools

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3. Fiber Optic Splicing

There are two methods of fiber optic splicing, fusion splicing & mechanical splicing.
Mechanical splicing is usually carried out for emergency restorations whereas fusion
splicing is done for permanent repairs of damaged cable or to connect the reels of
cable during installation
1. Mechanical Splicing: Mechanical splices are simply alignment
devices; designed to hold the two fibers ends in a precisely
aligned position thus enabling light to pass from one fiber into
the other. (Typical loss: 0.3 dB)
2. Fusion Splicing: Fusion splicing is the joining and fusing of
two fibers by placing them between two electrodes, and discharging an electric arc
over the fibers. This splice technique is non-reflective. Fusion splicing machine is
used to precisely align the two fiber ends then the glass ends are "fused" together
using electric arc. This produces a continuous connection between the fibers
enabling lower loss and less back reflection than mechanical splicing because the
resulting fusion splice points are almost seamless. (Typical loss: 0.1 dB)

3.1 Preparation of Fiber Optic Cable for Splicing

1. Removal of
outer jacket
2. Cutting of
Kevlar
3. Cleaning of
Buffer Tubes
4. Fixing of cable
in the enclosure
5. Stripping of
Buffer Tubes

Remove the fiber optic cable's protective jackets and buffers to allow
access to the optical fiber. Make sure the blades or cutting members
are not damaging the buffer tubes.
The Kevlar can be trimmed using scissors or Kevlar cutters.
Clean the jelly on buffer tubes with isopropyl wipes.
The cable should be fixed in the enclosure according to the
recommendations of the manufacturer of the splice enclosure.
The buffer tubes, like the outer jackets, can be removed by mechanical
stripping tools. Use care not to kink or damage the internal coated
fibers.

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3.2 Optical Fiber Splicing Process

1. Stripping of
fibers
2. Cleaning
3. Cleaving
4. Splicing

5. Protection
6. Organizing

Once the coated fiber is exposed, Use fiber stripper to strip fiber to
appropriate length. Take care not to damage the fibers in the process.
After the coating is removed, clean the fiber with specially designed
isopropyl alcohol wipes so that the fiber squeaks.
A good cleave is the key to obtaining a good splice. Use cleaver to cut
the fiber. After cleaving do not touch or clean the fiber.
The fiber is now ready to be spliced mechanically or Fusion. Insert the
fiber carefully in the mechanical splice or in the fusion splicer for
splicing. While inserting in the mechanical splice make sure that fiber
is inserted directly in the groove and do not touch any other surface.
Fusion splicer will automatically align and fuse the fiber.
In case of fusion splicing cover the splice with heat shrink sleeve and
place it in the heater, for mechanical splice carefully close the
mechanical splice.
Organize the fiber in the enclosure properly Make sure that organising
do not cause Micro-bending.

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4. Testing of Fiber Optic Link

Cables need to be tested for Continuity, End-to-End Loss and any other potential
problems. For long outside plant cables with intermediate splices, all individual
splices need to be verified with an OTDR, since that's the only way to make sure that
each one is good. Within the network testing for power is necessary as power is the
measurement that tells whether the system is operating properly.

4.1 Tools and Test Equipment for the job

1.
2.
3.
4.

Source and power meter, optical loss test

Reference test cables
Cleaning materials - lint free cleaning wipes and pure alcohol
OTDR and launch cable for outside plant jobs

4.2 Measurement of Optical Power & Loss

There is a difference between the power coupled into a component like a cable or a
connector and the power that is transmitted through it. This difference is what we call
optical loss and defines the performance of a cable, connector, splice, etc.
4.2.1

Measuring power

Power in a fiber optic system is like voltage in an electrical circuit. To measure power,
attach the meter to the cable that has the output you want to measure. Turn on the
transmitter/source and note the power the meter measures.
4.2.2

Testing Loss

Following two methods are used to measure loss. Optical Loss Test Sets houses a light
source and power meter in the same unit. For both methods two units of loss test sets
(one at each end of the fiber under test) are required.
1. Single Ended Loss (Laser Source and Power Meter)
This test is initiated from one end and result is displayed at far end unit.
FasTesT
Port

Test
Patch Cord

Test
Patch Cord

Patch
Cord

Patch
Cord
Optical
Loss
Test Set
Transmitter

Detector
Port

Fiber Optic Link

under Test

Figure 4: Single Ended

Loss Measurement
SETUP

Detector
Port

FasTesT
Port
Optical
Loss
Test Set
Receiver

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2. Double Ended Loss (FasTest Method)

In this test Laser source is initiated from one end and the results are displayed at both
ends simultaneously.
Both test method measure the loss of two ODF connectors (one on each end), the loss
of cable and splices in between. Most commonly FASTTEST set-up method is used
for loss testing.

FasTesT
Port

Patch
Cord
Optical
Loss
Test Set

Test
Patch Cord

Test
Patch Cord

Detector
Port

Patch
Cord
_______________________________
Fiber Optic Link
under Test

Figure 5: Double Ended Loss

Measurement /

Detector
Port

FasTesT
Port
Optical
Loss
Test Set
Receiver

Transmitter

FASTEST SETUP
Prior to perform Loss test measurement:
1. A reference measurement must be stored in both units
2. The reference measurement includes the loss caused by the test set-up components
including test Patch cords
3. The unit will store a reference reading of power level at the end of test Patch cord
4. This reference measurement is subtracted from the overall loss so the final loss
result represents the loss of system under test alone

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4.2.3

Referencing Optical Loss Test Unit

There are two referencing methods in practice for Loss test sets and both results in
accurate loss measurement:
Loop-back Method with only one test jumper
Side-by-Side Method with two test patch cords and a mating adapter
1. Loop back Method
Detector Port,
Disconnect this end and connect
to ODF of FO link under Test
once the reference is set

Source or FasTesT Port

Not to be disrupted once
the reference is set.

Optical
Loss
Test Set

Figure 4: Loop back method

The main advantage of the loop back referencing method is that there is no need to
bring both units at same location. This is performed by connecting a single test patch
cord from the units Source Port (FASTTEST Port) to Detector Port.
1. After performing the loop-back reference, simply disconnect the test patch cord
from the Detector Port and connect it to the ODF of Fiber link Under Test.
2. It is very important not to disconnect it from the source port (FASTTEST Port)
because the amount of light coupled or injected into the test patch cord varies
from one connection to another.
3. If the test patch cord is disconnected from the source port, it is required to repeat
the references.
4. The loop-back test is performed individually on each of the two units.
5. An important advantage of the loop-back method is that it automatically takes into
account the loss of the test patch cord and Mating adapters, allowing a true
measurement of the fiber itself.

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2. Side-by-Side Method
To perform the side-by-side reference procedure, two test patch cords are connected
via a Mating adapter and then connect the test patch cord ends to the Source Port
(FASTTEST Port) of both units.

FastTesT Port
Not to be disrupted once
the reference is set

Mating Adapter
Disconnect here to connect to
ODF of FO link Under Test

Detector Port /
Power Meter Port

Optical
Loss
Test Set

Optical
Loss
Test Set

Transmitter

Receiver

Figure 5: Side by side method

1. When using the side-by-side reference method, both units must be brought to a
common site to take the appropriate references.
2. Once the side-by-side reference is performed, disconnect the test jumpers at the
Mating Adopter and connect both test jumpers to the ODF of Fiber Link Under
Test.
3. Much like the loop back reference, it is very important not to disconnect the test
jumper from the source port as the amount of light coupled or injected into the test
patch cord will vary from one connection to another. If the test patch cord is
disconnected from the source port (FASTTEST Port), it is required to repeat the
reference
Note: Before measuring optical loss with an automated OLTS, referencing is a
crucial procedure that should be performed before every test session.
Performing a FasTesT:
The purpose of a FasTesT is to test the fiber according to set parameters with
minimum intervention from you. Although the FasTesT is performed with two units,
one at each end of the fiber, it is initiated from only one unit and the result will be
displayed at both units

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4.2.4

Fiber Loss Variables

Attenuation

Modal Dispersion
Dispersive Losses
Splices
Connectors

Safety Buffer

All fiber has losses from absorption and back reflection of the light
caused by impurities in the glass. Attenuation is a function of
wavelength and needs to be specified or measured at the wavelength
in use.
The higher the data rate, the shorter the distance the signal can travel
before modal dispersion creates an inability to accurately detect the
signal (i.e. a "1" from a "0").
Another dispersion effect, which causes pulse spreading, and limits
distance is chromatic dispersion, where the broader spectrum of light
can result in varying travel times for different parts of a light pulse.
Although small and often insignificant, there is no perfect loss-less
splice. Many errors in loss calculations are made due to a failure to
include splices. Average splice loss is usually less than 0.1 dB.
Like splices, there is no perfect loss-less connector. It is important to
note that even the highest quality connectors can get dirty. Dirt and
dust can completely obscure a fiber light wave and create huge
losses. A 0.5 dB loss per connector is commonly the worst-case
scenario assuming a cleaned and polished connector is used. There
will always be a minimum of two connectors per fiber segment, so
remember to multiply connector loss by two.
It is common to add a loss as a design margin. Allowing 2 - 3 dB of
loss can take fiber aging, poor splices, temperature and humidity, etc.,
into account and ensures a solid system.

NOTE: To determine minimum/maximum losses and maximum distances you need

to identify all of the above variables. Failure to identify even one of these variables
can create potential problems

Terminology

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4.2.5

Calculating Link Loss

Losses occur at many points in a fiber optic system. We have to ensure that the light
source launches enough power into the fiber to provide enough power at the receiver.
The receiver has limited sensitivity.
Transmitter output - Receiver input = Losses + Margin (All calculations are done in
dB)
For single mode fiber cable with two most commonly used wavelengths 1310 nm
and 1550 nmThe attenuation measurement will vary depending upon which
wavelength is in use. Attenuation is measured in dB and is quoted as attenuation in
dB/km.
Under mentioned is the most commonly used method to determine the maximum
signal loss across a piece of pre-existing fiber (Link Loss)
Optical
Fiber Type
Single Mode

Loss/Km
in dB

Loss
Connector

1310nm

1550nm

0.35

0.23

Splice
In dB

0.50

0.09

Table 1: Attenuation Criteria

The measured value of attenuation of a FO link should not exceed the sum of
allowable attenuation of each component.
These components are:
The Fiber Optic cable
The FO connectors
The Splices
Link Loss (dB)

= Cable Loss + Connector Loss + Splice Loss + (Safety Margin)

Cable Loss
Connector Loss
Splice Loss
(Safety Margin)

= Cable length (Km) x Attenuation Coefficient (db/Km)

= Number of Connector Pairs x Connector Loss (dB)
= Number of Splices x Splice Loss (dB)
= 2 ~ 3 dB depending upon the length of link

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5. OTDR Trace Analysis

Dead
Zone

dB

In-Put EndFace Reflection

End-to-End Loss

Dynamic Range
Reflective Event
(Connector, Mechanical Splice)
Out Put End-Face
Reflection

Non-Reflective Event
(Fusion Splice, Bend)

Non-Reflective Event
(Micro Bending)

Noise
0M

Distance (M)

Reflective
Event Loss

Launch
Level
Dead Zone

NonReflective
Event Loss

Reflective Event
Dead Zone

Non-Reflective
Event Loss
caused by
Micro-Bending
or Bad Splice

Figure 6: OTDR trace analysis

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5.1 OTDR Parameters

There are four main settings that the technician must set on the OTDR before testing.
Those are Wavelength, Index Of Refraction, Pulse Width and Distance
5.1.1

Wavelength

The behaviour of an Optical system is directly related to the wavelength of

transmission. Not only Optical fiber will exhibit different loss characteristics at
different Wavelengths, but splice loss value also differ at different wavelengths. In
general fiber should be tested with both wavelengths i.e. 1310 and 1550nm for single
mode fibers. If testing is only to be performed at one wavelength it should be done
with 1550nm considering the following points
1550nm will see longer distances down the fiber due to the lower attenuation as
compared t0 1310nm
1550nm is more sensitive to losses incurred by bending during installation and
organising of fibers in the splice enclosures after splicing
5.1.2

Index Of Refraction

The index of refraction sets the OTDR to the proper speed of light for a particular
fiber link being tested.
Changing the IOR value will change the distances to events on the OTDR trace,
and also the overall length of the fiber.
The IOR of a particular fiber is usually provided by the manufacturer
5.1.3

Pulse Width or Duration

This is another setting that must be selected to receive the clearest information from
the OTDR trace. The length of time that the OTDR's laser is turned on is called the
"pulse width". As the OTDR turns the laser on and off, the duration of the laser being
on results in a pulse of a certain length.
Shorter pulse widths provide better traces of events that are close together, as the
shorter pulse widths will have shorter dead zones after reflective events.
However, short pulse widths will result in a noisy, hard to interpret trace for long
distance fiber link, as the OTDR process weaker returned signals
Long pulse widths means more light energy is injected in the fiber. The more light
injected means the more light is reflected back from the fiber to OTDR. It causes
longer dead zones, and reduces resolution of events that are close to each other.
Long Pulse width is therefore used to see long-distance down a cable
The General Rule to set Pulse width is:
o Short Fiber Link = Short Pulse Width
o Long Fiber Link = Long Pulse Width
Shorter pulse widths can be used on longer fiber links to give greater detail to
events close to the OTDR and for fault analysis.
5.1.4

Range or Distance

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Fayyaz Ahmad Sheikh
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SE Engineering Cable LDTN HQ RYD

The range on an OTDR is the maximum distance that OTDR will acquire data
samples. This parameter is generally set at twice the distance of the end of the fiber
Note: Neglecting to set any of these parameters properly can result in erroneous
reporting by the OTDR
Dead Zone:
The OTDR is designed to detect the back scattering level all along the fiber link. It
measures the back-scattered signals, which are much smaller than the signal sent to
the fiber. When there is a strong reflection then the power received at the OTDR is
much higher than the backscattered power, which saturates the OTDR. OTDR
requires time to recover from the saturated condition. During this time OTDR cannot
detect the backscattered signal accurately. The length of fiber, which is not fully
characterized during the recovery period, is termed as dead zone.
This affect is similar to the one when we are driving a car at night and that another
cars headlight dazzles our vision momentarily.
The dead zone depends on the pulse width, the reflectance, the loss and the location

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Fayyaz Ahmad Sheikh
Page 20 / 35
SE Engineering Cable LDTN HQ RYD

6. Cleaning of Connectors
Proper cleaning of connectors is very important. The core diameter of a single-mode
fiber is only about 9um. This generally means you cannot see streaks or scratches on
the surface.
Follow the under mentioned procedure to clean the connector:
1. Clean the connector by rubbing it on cleaning tape or a new, dry cotton swab
using a small circular movement.
2. Blow away any remaining lint with compressed air.
If the connector has greasy dirt on its tip follow the following procedure:
1. Take a new Moisten cotton swab with isopropyl alcohol.
2. Clean the connector by rubbing the cotton swab over the surface using a small
circular movement.
3. Take cleaning tape and rub it in small circular motion to remove the alcohol
dissolved sediment and dust.
4. 4. Blow away any remaining lint with compressed air
Note: Do Not Forget to clean the connector with cleaning tape after cleaning it
with isopropyl alcohol swab.
L

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Fayyaz Ahmad Sheikh
Page 21 / 35
SE Engineering Cable LDTN HQ RYD

7. Specifications and procedures for Cable

Installation & Repairs
7.1 Cable Depth
The depth at which buried cable can be placed will vary with local conditions i.e.
Type of soil and Terrain. However fiber optic cable must be buried at a minimum
depth of 80 cm.
Location
Soft Soil
Hard Soil / Rock Soil
Road Way crossing

Depth
80 ~ 130 cm
Minimum 80 cm
Minimum 110 cm

Table 2: showing depth of Buried Fiber Optic Cables

Under mentioned diagram shows the typical layout of Direct Buried cable.

Back filling

Back
filling

40 ~90 cm

80 ~130 Cm
Warning
Tape

Soft Sand

Soft Sand

20 cm

Soft Sand

20 cm

Fiber Optic
Cable

Soft Sand

Min 1Meter

Side View of Trench

Front View

Legend

Back filling
Soft Sand
Undisturbed
Earth

Figure 7:Cable trench

In certain installation areas, for example, rights-of-way with limited access (public
highways, private property boundaries, water ways, Culverts and under the bridges,
cable must be buried in a duct and if such constructions are done after the installation
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SE Engineering Cable LDTN HQ RYD

of cable, Fiber Optic cable must be protected in the affected area with PVC pipe, iron
barring and concrete.
Cable must be protected at all locations such as unimproved roads, streets and alleys
that may later be paved or hard surfaced.
CAUTION:
Depths less than those specified may expose the cable to erosion or excavation
damage
In conditions where these depths are not feasible or permitted lesser depth is
permissible provided additional protection in the form of concrete casements or
sub duct is provided

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Fayyaz Ahmad Sheikh
Page 23 / 35
SE Engineering Cable LDTN HQ RYD

7.2 Splice Points

Splice point locations must be chosen carefully to have easy access for future
maintenance. Splicing must always be done in the car and in order to reach splicing
vehicle, ensure a minimum of 10 ~ 15meters of extra cable on both cable ends at each
splice point
At Hand Holes and Man Holes place the cable slack vertically (in line with the
cable route)
In the case of a buried splice point, coil and bury the slack Horizontally as shown
in the Figure below
Splicing Van
10~15M slack

80~120 cm

Warning Tape
20 Cm

Splice Pit
2 x 2 Meter
Hand Hole

Buried Splice Point

Man Hole

Back
filling

20 ~70 cm

80 ~130 Cm
Warning
Tape

Soft
Sand

Tiles

20cm

Direct Buried
Splice

Buried Joint
Top View

20cm

Soft Sand

20 cm

Min 2Meter

Front View
Figure 10: Arrangement of Buried
Splice
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Fayyaz Ahmad Sheikh
Page 24 / 35
SE Engineering Cable LDTN HQ RYD

8. Points To Remember
8.1 Safety First!
Small scraps of glass i.e. cleaved-off ends of the fibers being terminated or spliced is
very dangerous! They are extremely sharp and are basically glass needles that will
easily penetrate flesh then break off and become nearly impossible to remove. Once in
the body it will likely become infected. If they get into the eyes, they are very hard to
flush out. Don't even think about what happens if you eat one. Always follow these
rules when working with fiber.

Find and dispose-off all cut fiber fragments immediately after cutting.
Dispose-off all scraps properly
Handle cut fiber fragments with tweezers only
Do not drop them on the floor where they will stick in carpets or shoes and be
carried elsewhere.
It is your responsibility to ensure that no fiber fragments escape and injure
someone. If you lose a fiber fragment you must look until you find it.

Fiber fragments can stick to the cover of the cleaver. Move slowly when
opening the cover. Always look on the inside of the cover if you dont see
your fragment on the shelf of the cleaver.
If you cant find your fragment, get more light on the subject and work area.
Do not move the cleaver until the fragment has been found.
Use a magnifying glass if you need to but FIND THAT FRAGMENT.
Do not eat or drink anywhere near the work area.
The light in Transmission system is infrared and you can't see it therefore
always be careful with your eyes.

When using a fiber optic microscope. NEVER look into a fiber unless you
personally confirm no light is present. Use a power meter to check it.

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Fayyaz Ahmad Sheikh
Page 25 / 35
SE Engineering Cable LDTN HQ RYD

8.2 Zero Tolerance for Dirt

With fiber optics, our tolerance to dirt is near zero. Airborne particles are about the
size of the core of SM fiber- they absorb lots of light and may scratch connectors if
not removed! Dirt on connectors is the biggest cause of scratches on polished
connectors and high loss measurements!

Try to work in a clean area.

Always keep dust caps on connectors & patch panels when not in use. Keep
them covered to keep them clean.
Use lint free pads and isopropyl alcohol to clean the connectors.
After cleaning with isopropyl alcohol swab do not forget to clean it with the
Cleaning Tape

8.3 Tools and Materials

Make sure to have the proper tools for the job.

Confirm that all tools are in good shape before you head out for the job. This
includes all the cable tools and test equipment.
Make sure that your test cables are good? Without that, good terminations are
tested as bad every time.

8.4

Make sure that your test equipment is fully charged and you have spare battery
backup.

Documentation and Record Maintenance

It is very hard to troubleshoot cables when you don't know how long they are, where
is the route or how they were tested originally! So keep good records. It is
recommended that the following records be maintained and kept current always:

Schematic drawings to include "as-built" information for street maps records

Splice loss data
End-to-end optical loss measurements
End-to-end OTDR traces

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Fayyaz Ahmad Sheikh
Page 26 / 35
SE Engineering Cable LDTN HQ RYD

9. Check List and Procedures for Final

Repair/Relocation of Fiber Optic Cable
9.1 Civil works & Preparation in the field
1.

Opening of TC with TNOC for the excavation on the existing cable.

2.

Execution of Civil works. (Under supervision of MC cable technicians)

3.

Laying/Pulling of By Pass/New Cable

4.

Installation of enclosures and testing of New/Bypass cable. (Secure new splice

enclosures with plastic foil (bag) to avoid water or sand intake)

5.

Marking of cutting point for existing cable, keeping in mind the maintenance
loop of 15 meter each side.

6.

Assure site accessibility and secure work site with safety signs. (i.e. traffic signs,
road cones, warning tape)

7.

OTDR testing of Dark Fiber Measurement prior to MDT

9.2 Organizing MDT/TC

1.

Fiber utilization Form must be filled correctly for both sites of the section
involved

2.

All working and spare fibers at both sites (ODFs) must be clearly identified
and labelled.

3.

Splicing Machines and Test Equipment must be checked prior to MDT.

4.

MC Supervisor is responsible to arrange a meeting with all scheduled staff, to

determine tasks and procedures to be followed during MDT

5.

MDT request

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Fayyaz Ahmad Sheikh
Page 27 / 35
SE Engineering Cable LDTN HQ RYD

9.3 List of tool & Test equipment

Item in red are mandatory for emergency and final splicing (Item 1 to 18 in the list)
1.
Fiber Phone sets (2X2)
2.

Satellite Phone (in case of non GSM coverage)

3.

OTDR

4.

Cable locator (fault locating only)

5.

Testing Patch Cords

6.

Fiber Cleaning Cassette

7.

Power Meter (Max Tester)

8.

Laptop (for SDH Technician)

9.

Cleaning canned air (Air Jet)

10.

Mobile Generators

11.

Emergency Lights for night work.

12.

Floppy Disk for recording of OTDR test results.

13.

Alcohol wipes

14.

Lint free tissues

15.

Cable Ties different sizes

16.

Power extension cords

17.

Mechanical Splices (to connect fiber phones)

18.

Fiber Optic Preparation Tools

a. Cleaver
b. Cladding Stripper
c. Cable outer sheath cutter
d. Loose tube cutter (Jacket stripper)
e. Kevlar cutting scissor
f. Buffer stripper for ODF pigtails
g. No Nik Stripper
h. Tweezers

19.

Splicing Machines

20.

Enclosures (already preinstalled during site / cable preparation)

21.

Splice protection (Heat shrink) sleeves

22.

Hot air gun

23.

Splicing Cars

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Fayyaz Ahmad Sheikh
Page 28 / 35
SE Engineering Cable LDTN HQ RYD

9.4

Staff Arrangements

1. Each cable splicing team will comprise of Two-cable technicians and two
labourers.
2. Two teams will work simultaneously at both splicing points.
3. For coordination and disconnection/reconnection of Fibers at ODF, SDH
technician must be available at both terminal sites of the section involved.
4. At one terminal site SDH technician must have Laptop for testing in case of any
problem /outage or loss of association at TNOC.

9.5 Execution OF TC/MDT

1. MDT / TC approval from TNOC.
2. Contact and information to TNOC regarding TC/MDT 15 minutes prior to Start of
MDT/TC.
3. Contact to TNOC at start time of MDT and get OK/ Go ahead from TNOC.
4. Keep TNOC on line; disconnect working fibers from ODF one by one at one site
only.
5. Reconfirmation from TNOC regarding stability of systems.
6. In case of any unexpected outage reconnect fiber in coordination with TNOC and
ask for TNOCs advice as well as inform to Senior Engineer LDN HQ according
to escalation procedure.
7. If all systems are stable according to TNOCs information, disconnect working
fibers from ODF of second site of section involved.
8. Cut cable and start preparation of cable ends.
9. Installation of fiber phone and testing with SDH technician on terminal site.
10. Splicing of fibers according to the priority (Most important system first)
11. Testing & recording of results for Fibers immediately after splicing. (Max Tester
and OTDR testing)
12. Reconnection of fibers one by one at ODF of both terminal sites immediately after
splicing and testing. (Do Not Forget to clean pigtails/connectors with cleaning
cassette before reconnection at ODF)
13. Reconfirmation with TNOC if the systems are working on the original positions.
14. In case of any problem retesting of the fiber and reconnection according to
TNOCs advice and Fiber utilization plan.
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Fayyaz Ahmad Sheikh
Page 29 / 35
SE Engineering Cable LDTN HQ RYD

15. After completion of splicing for all fibers, reconfirmation from TNOC regarding
stability of all working systems.
16. Fibers must be organized carefully in splice enclosure to avoid Micro-Bending.
17. Closing of splice enclosures and securing the cable with splice enclosure with heat
shrink sleeve.
18. Inform TNOC when splice enclosures are closed permanent.
19. Preparation of cable maintenance loop and Storage of splice enclosure.
20. In case of direct buried cable, Backfilling 30Cm with sweat sand and placing of
tiles above the Splice.
21. In case of Manholes, securing the splice on the brackets in the Manhole.
22. Installation of Marker posts.
23. Updating the drawing and submission of updated drawing and test results to LDN
HQ.

9.6 Test Required

1. OTDR testing from both terminal sites of the section involved immediately after
splicing.
2. Section loss test with MaxTester immediately after splicing.

9.7 Priority of Systems

Priority of system changes according to the situation. Unprotected systems are always
on Top priority. Following sequence of System Priority must be followed.
1. OLS 400
2. OLS 80 G
3. ADM 16 / SLM 16
4. ISM
5. ADM 4

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Fayyaz Ahmad Sheikh
Page 30 / 35
SE Engineering Cable LDTN HQ RYD

9.8 Emergency Repair Process

1. During the process of mechanical splicing, SDH technicians must be available at
both sites of the section involved.
2. Care must be taken in opening and closing of ODF trays to avoid damage or
micro-bending of pigtails and patch cords.
3. SDH technician must have power meter at one site and OTDR on the other site in
order to perform continuity test.
4. After mechanical splicing of each Fiber, OTDR test must be performed to check
the quality of the mechanical splice.
5. Prior to connect fibers with the system, Test with laser source and power meter
must be conducted in order to ensure the correct sequence and continuity of fibers
at both sites.
6. After above-mentioned tests, fibers must be connected to the system.
7. If the system is not restored, troubleshooting must be done according to the
following steps.
8. First of all direction of failure must be identified.
9. Faulty Fiber No must be identified.
10. OTDR test must be performed to check the quality of mechanical splice.
11. If the quality of mechanical splice is good and trace shows through Fiber from
mechanical splice point then continuity test with laser source and power meter
must be performed in order to confirm the continuity of fiber and correct sequence
at ODFs of both sites.
12. Both ODFs must be checked carefully for micro-bending of ODF pigtails or
patch cords.
13. At all times SAT phone must be dispatched with cable team in order to avoid
communication problem during restoration activities in the areas without GSM
coverage

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Fayyaz Ahmad Sheikh
Page 31 / 35
SE Engineering Cable LDTN HQ RYD

10. Colour scheme

10.1 24 fiber (6 tubes - 4 tubes)
24F(6-Tube)

24F(4-Tubes)

Tube No.

Fiber No.

Colour

Colour

Fiber No.

BLUE

BLUE

2
3
4
5

ORANGE
GREEN
BROWN

ORANGE
GREEN
BROWN

BLUE

SLATE

2
3
4
5

6
7

ORANGE

WHITE

GREEN
BROWN

BLUE
ORANGE

BLUE

GREEN

10
11
12
13

ORANGE
GREEN
BROWN

BROWN
SLATE
WHITE

BLUE

BLUE

10
11
12
13

14
15
16
17

ORANGE
GREEN
BROWN

ORANGE
GREEN
BROWN

14
15
16

BLUE

SLATE

17

18
19

ORANGE
GREEN
BROWN

WHITE
BLUE
ORANGE

18
19

BLUE

GREEN

21

ORANGE
GREEN
BROWN

BROWN
SLATE
WHITE

22
23
24

Blue
2
Orange
3
White
4
White
5
White
6
White

8
9

20
21
22
23
24

6
7

Tube No.
1
Blue
2

8
9

Orange
3
White
4

20

White

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Fayyaz Ahmad Sheikh
Page 32 / 35
SE Engineering Cable LDTN HQ RYD

10.2 24-36 fiber

24 FOC
Tube No.
1
BLUE
2
ORANGE
3
WHITE
4
WHITE
5
WHITE
6
WHITE

Fiber No.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24

36 FOC
Colour
BLUE
ORANGE
GREEN
BROWN
BLUE
ORANGE
GREEN
BROWN
BLUE
ORANGE
GREEN
BROWN
BLUE
ORANGE
GREEN
BROWN
BLUE
ORANGE
GREEN
BROWN
BLUE
ORANGE
GREEN
BROWN

Colour
BLUE
ORANGE
GREEN
BROWN
SLATE
WHITE
BLUE
ORANGE
GREEN
BROWN
SLATE
WHITE
BLUE
ORANGE
GREEN
BROWN
SLATE
WHITE
BLUE
ORANGE
GREEN
BROWN
SLATE
WHITE
BLUE
ORANGE
GREEN
BROWN
SLATE
WHITE
BLUE
ORANGE
GREEN
BROWN
SLATE
WHITE

Fiber No.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36

Tube No.
1
BLUE

2
ORANGE

3
WHITE

4
WHITE

5
WHITE

6
WHITE

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Fayyaz Ahmad Sheikh
Page 33 / 35
SE Engineering Cable LDTN HQ RYD

10.3 24-48 fiber

Tube No.
1
BLUE
2
ORANGE
3
WHITE
4
WHITE
5
WHITE
6
WHITE

24 FOC
Fiber No.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24

Color
BLUE
ORANGE
GREEN
BROWN
BLUE
ORANGE
GREEN
BROWN
BLUE
ORANGE
GREEN
BROWN
BLUE
ORANGE
GREEN
BROWN
BLUE
ORANGE
GREEN
BROWN
BLUE
ORANGE
GREEN
BROWN

Color
BLUE
ORANGE
GREEN
BROWN
SLATE
WHITE
RED
BLACK
BLUE
ORANGE
GREEN
BROWN
SLATE
WHITE
RED
BLACK
BLUE
ORANGE
GREEN
BROWN
SLATE
WHITE
RED
BLACK
BLUE
ORANGE
GREEN
BROWN
SLATE
WHITE
RED
BLACK
BLUE
ORANGE
GREEN
BROWN
SLATE
WHITE
RED
BLACK
BLUE
ORANGE
GREEN
BROWN
SLATE
WHITE
RED
BLACK

48 FOC
Fiber No.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
41
42
43
44
45
46
47
48

Tube No.
1

BLUE

(Tray
1)

ORANGE
2)

(Tray

WHITE

(Tray
3)

WHITE

5
WHITE

WHITE

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Fayyaz Ahmad Sheikh
Page 34 / 35
SE Engineering Cable LDTN HQ RYD

10.4 Standard colour scheme

Colour

Fiber No.

BLUE

ORANGE

GREEN

BROWN

SLATE

WHITE

RED

BLACK

YELLOW

PURPLE

10

ROSE

11

AQUA

12

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Fayyaz Ahmad Sheikh
Page 35 / 35
SE Engineering Cable LDTN HQ RYD