Multi-Hundred-Fiber Cable Composed of Optical Fiber Ribbons Inserted Tightly into Slots,
Abstract:
A new type of cable assembly with a multitude of optical fibers is proposed and developed for use in subscriber loops. Optical fiber ribbons are tightly inserted into helically shaped rectangular slots on a polyethylene rod. Optical fiber ribbon and slot structures are investigated to minimize optical loss increase. Fiber coating and ribbon stranding structure design methods are presented. Fiber strains, especially a residual strain, are investigated. It is found that a residual strain is restricted to less than 0.05 by selecting helical pitch of the slots as 700 mm or more to guarantee a required fiber life-time. Based on the design, 600-fiber cables are manufactured. It is demonstrated that the cables have excellent transmission properties through the mechanical and thermal tests and field trials. Author