Outdoor Cable Guide
Ordering outdoor FTTH drop cable with three FRP rods
Identify all three strength members on a cable drawing and specify the fibre, clamp and route conditions needed for a comparable outdoor FTTH drop cable quotation.
Where is the third rod?
Start with an end view. In one documented construction, two glass-fibre-reinforced polymer rods sit beside the optical fibre. A third rod occupies a separate lobe for suspension. Mark each rod on the drawing and dimension its diameter. A photograph of the black jacket alone cannot identify the messenger material. On the right-hand sample in the photograph, three pale rod ends extend beyond the black jacket. Match their positions to the supplier’s cross-section drawing.
How to compare two offers
A supplier offering two FRP rods around the fibre and a steel messenger may list a similar overall profile. Give each bidder the same drawing revision. Ask them to identify the messenger material independently of the two side rods and state the fibre count on a separate line. If an all-dielectric construction is required, ask for written confirmation covering the complete cable.
What does the aerial route require?
Give the bidder the longest span, attachment arrangement, project wind and ice conditions, and installation and operating temperature ranges. Ask for the supported loading case for the offered cable and clamp combination. Three rods alone do not establish a safe span or minimum installation temperature.
A useful line for the enquiry
Outdoor FTTH drop, drawing revision __, fibre type/count __, side rods FRP Ø __, messenger FRP Ø __, jacket __, clamp reference __. Attach a labelled section and list any dimensions awaiting confirmation. Request a matching sample before releasing the order.
Buyer’s worksheet
| Field | What to record |
|---|---|
| Cross-section | Drawing revision and rod diameters |
| Suspension | Messenger material and clamp reference |
Before release
- Agree the drawing revision.
- Confirm the specific cable and clamp.
Related information
Technical reference
Send the drawing and route details
Attach the cross-section and proposed loading conditions.
Send the drawing and route details