Documente Academic
Documente Profesional
Documente Cultură
LTD
LDTN Project
Handbook
On
Fibre Optic Cable
Maintenance
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DETASAD TRAINING CONFIDENTIAL Page 2 of 55
7. CLEANING OF CONNECTORS .....................................................................25
9. POINTS TO REMEMBER................................................................................31
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14. GUIDELINES FOR 3RD PARTY MDT/TC’S EXECUTED ON
EXISTING FIBER OPTIC CABLES ......................................................................48
Figures:
Figure 1: Basic construction of optical fibre..................................................................5
Figure 2: Constructional Details of Fibre Optic Cable ..................................................6
Figure 3: Single Ended Loss ........................................................................................17
Figure 4:Double Ended Loss Measurement / FASTEST SETUP ..............................17
Figure 5: Loop Back Method.......................................................................................18
Figure 6: Side by Side Method ....................................................................................19
Figure 7: OTDR Trace Analysis ..................................................................................22
Figure 8: Cable Trench ................................................................................................28
Figure 9: Arrangement for splicing at site ...................................................................29
Figure 10: Arrangement of splice enclosures ..............................................................30
Figure 11: Arrangement of Buried Splice....................................................................30
Figure 12: Information for 1st update of Threatening Trouble Ticket .........................39
Figure 13: Working Area of Third Party .....................................................................40
Figure 14: Information for Trouble Ticket update during course of activity ..............41
Figure 15: Information for Trouble Ticket update during course of activity ..............41
Figure 16: Information for Final update of Threatening Trouble Ticket.....................42
Figure 17: Types of Cable Route Marker Posts...........................................................45
Figure 18: Marker Post Placement...............................................................................45
Figure 19: Relocation Option-1 ...................................................................................46
Figure 20: Relocation Option-2 ...................................................................................46
Figure 21: Cable Locator Direction Connection..........................................................51
Figure 22: Cable Locator Inductive Method................................................................52
Figure 23: Cable Locator Inductive Clamp Method ....................................................53
Tables:
Table 1: List of Tool Kit ..............................................................................................14
Table 2: Attenuation Criteria .......................................................................................21
Table 3: Depth of Buried Fibre Optic Cables ..............................................................28
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1. Definition of Fibre Optic
Fibre Optic is a thin strand of highly transparent glass or 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 fibre optic link consists of a transmitting device, which generates the
light signal; an optical fibre cable, which carries the light; and a receiver, which
accepts the light signal transmitted. The fibre itself is passive and does not contain any
active properties
Coating
Cladding
Core
Cross Sectional View of a Single Mode Fibre Side View of a Single Mode Fibre
Core: The centre of the fibre through which the light is transmitted
Cladding: The outside optical layer of the fibre 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 fibre
that protects the glass from moisture or physical damage.
Fibre 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 region’s refractive index 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 fibre 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 fibre. 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 Fibre Optic Cable
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1.3 Types of Fibre Optic Cables
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 fibres. These cables
are most widely used in data networks. The numbers 50/125 & 62.5/125 represent
the diameters of the fibre 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 fibre core and
cladding
Note: Both multimode and single mode fibres 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 Fibre Optic Cable
2.1 Terminations
Provides a centralized location for patching fibres,
Patch panels
testing, monitoring and restoring cables.
A non-permanent device for connecting two fibres
or fibres to equipment where they are expected to
Connector
be disconnected occasionally for testing or
rerouting. It also provides protection to both fibres.
A tube, which holds a fibre for alignment, usually
Ferrule
part of a connector
SC connector : SC Stands for Single Coupling. It is a 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
fibres
FC Connector: The FC stands for "Face Contact" The anti-rotation key prevents
fibre end face damage and rotational sensitivity and the floating ferrule prevents
shock and vibration.
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ST Connector : ST Stands for Straight Tip. The ST connector is spring-loaded
bayonet mount and have a long cylindrical ferrule to hold the fibre
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2.2 Splicing
Splice enclosures 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.
Splice panels Connect individual fibres from cables to pigtails
Mechanical Splice A splice where the fibres are aligned by mechanical
means
Fusion Splice A splice created by fusing two fibres together
Fusion Splicer An instrument that splices fibres by fusing them,
typically by electrical arc
2.4 Measurements
The reduction in optical power as it passes along a
Attenuation
fibre, usually expressed in decibels (dB).
The range of signal frequencies or bit rate within
Bandwidth
which a fibre optic link or network will operate.
A property of optical fibre due to which different
wavelengths travel at different speeds and arrive at
Chromatic Dispersion
different times, resulting in spreading of a pulse in
an optical wave guide.
A unit of measurement for optical power, which
Decibels (dB) indicates relative power. A -10 dB means a
reduction in power by 10 times.
Absolute Power, Optical power referenced to 1
dBm
milliwatt
A unit of measure used to measure the wavelength
Nanometer (nm)
of light (meaning one-billionth of a meter)
The amount of optical power lost during
Optical Loss transmission of through fibre, splices, couplers, etc.
expressed in dB.
It is measured in "dBm", or decibels referenced to
Optical Power one milliwatt of power. While loss is a relative
reading, optical power is an absolute measurement,
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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
Back Reflection a fibre caused by the difference of refractive indices
of air and glass.
The total amount of power lost in the link. Often
Power Budget 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
Polarization Mode
by virtue of different light paths lengths is called
Dispersion
Modal dispersion.
A measure of the speed of light in a material, a
Refractive Index property of optical materials that relates to the
velocity of light in the material
The change of direction of light after striking small
Scattering particles that causes loss in optical fibres and is
used to make measurements by an OTDR
A term for the colour of light, usually expressed in
nanometres (nm) or microns (m). Fibre is mostly
Wavelength
used in the infrared region where the light is
invisible to the human eye.
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3. Fibre Optic Tool Kit and Accessories
Toolkit provides the cable technician with a collection of essential tools required for
the installation, maintenance and termination of Fibre Optic Cables. The essential
tools listed below includes everything required to perform rapid emergency repairs to
damaged fibre optic cables as well as to perform permanent repairs of fibre optic
cables.
1 RXS Cleaver
3M 2501 Fiberlok
2
Assembly Tool
3 Cable Cutter
6 Pliers
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Fibre Cable Jacket
8
Slitter (Round)
Kevlar Electrician
9
Scissor
13 No-Nik Stripper
14 Tweezers
15 Cleaning Tape
16 Utility Knife
17 Measuring Tape 3”
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19 Adjustable Wrench 4"
20 Number Markers
23 Permanent Marker
24 Alcohol Swabs
25 Electrician's Tape
26 Flash Light
27 Kimwipes
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4. Fibre Optic Splicing
There are two methods of fibre 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 Removal of outer jacket: Remove the fibre optic cable's protective jackets and
buffers to allow access to the optical fibre. Make sure the cutting members are not
damaging the buffer tubes.
2 Cutting of Kevlar: The Kevlar can be trimmed using scissors or Kevlar cutters.
3 Cleaning of Buffer Tubes: Clean the jelly on buffer tubes with isopropyl wipes.
4 Fixing of cable in the enclosure: The cable should be fixed in the enclosure
according to the recommendations of the manufacturer of the splice enclosure.
5 Stripping of Buffer Tubes: The buffer tubes, like the outer jackets, can be
removed by stripping tools. Care must be taken to avoid kink or damage to
internal coated fibres.
1. Stripping : Once the coated fibre is exposed, Use fibre stripper to strip fibre to
appropriate length. Take care not to damage the fibres in the process.
2. Cleaning: After the coating is removed, clean the fibre with specially designed
isopropyl alcohol wipes so that the fibre squeaks.
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3. Cleaving: A good cleave is the key to obtaining a good splice. Use cleaver to cut
the fibre. After cleaving do not touch or clean the fibre.
4. Splicing: The fibre is now ready to be spliced mechanically or Fusion. Insert the
fibre carefully in the mechanical splice or in the fusion splicer for splicing. While
inserting in the mechanical splice make sure that fibre is inserted directly in the
groove and do not touch any other surface. Fusion splicer will automatically align
and fuse the fibre.
5. Protection: 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.
6. Organizing: Organize the fibre in the enclosure properly Make sure that
organising do not cause Micro-bending.
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.
Following two methods are used to measure loss. Optical Loss Test Sets contains 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 fibre under test) are required.
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1. Single Ended Loss (Laser Source and Power Meter)
This test is initiated from one end and result is displayed at far end unit.
Test
Source / Test Patch Cord
FasTesT Patch Cord
Detector
Port Port
Source /
Fiber Optic Link
FasTesT
Detector under Test
Port
Port Optical
Optical
Loss
Loss
Test Set
Test Set
Figure 3: Single Ended Loss
Transmitter Receiver
Measurement SETUP
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.
Test
Source / Test Patch Cord
FasTesT Patch Cord
Detector
Port Port
_______________________________
Fiber Optic Link Source /
FasTesT
Detector under Test
Port Optical
Optical Port
Loss
Loss
Test Set
Test Set
Transmitter Receiver
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from the overall loss so the final loss result represents the loss of system under test
alone.
There are two referencing methods in practice for Loss test sets and both results in
accurate loss measurement:
Optical
Loss
Test Set
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 unit’s 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 Fibre 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.
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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.
Mating Adapter
Disconnect here to connect to
ODF of FO link Under Test
Source / FastTesT Port
Not to be disrupted once
the reference is set
Detector Port /
Power Meter Port
Optical Optical
Loss Loss
Test Set Test Set
Transmitter Receiver
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 Fibre 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
Performing FasTesT:
The purpose of a FasTesT is to test the fibre according to set parameters with
minimum intervention by the persons involved in test. Although the FasTesT is
performed with two units, one at each end of the fibre, it is initiated from only one
unit and the result will be displayed at both units
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5.2.4 Fibre Loss Variables
i. Attenuation
All fibre 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.
iv. Splices
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.
v. Connectors
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 fibre 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 fibre segment, so
remember to multiply connector loss by two.
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5.2.5 Calculating Link Loss
Losses occur at many points in a fibre optic system. We have to ensure that the light
source launches enough power into the fibre 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 fibre cable with two most commonly used wavelengths— 1310 nm
and 1550 nm—The 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 fibre (Link Loss)
Loss/Km Loss
Optical
in dB Connector Splice
Fibre Type
1310nm 1550nm In dB
Single Mode 0.35 0.23 0.50 0.09
The measured value of attenuation of a FO link should not exceed the sum of
allowable attenuation of each component.
Link Loss (dB) = Cable Loss + Connector Loss + Splice Loss + (Safety Margin)
(Safety Margin /
Maintenance Margin ) = 2 ~ 3 dB depending upon the length of link
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6. OTDR Trace Analysis
Dead
Zone Dynamic Range
In-Put End-
dB Reflective Event
Face Reflection
(Connector, Mechanical Splice, crack)
Non-Reflective Event
Non-Reflective Event (Macro Bend)
(Fusion Splice, Bend)
Noise
0M Distance (M)
Reflective
Launch Event Loss
Level
Dead Zone
Reflective Event
Dead Zone
Non- Non-Reflective
Reflective Event Loss
Event Loss caused by
Macro-Bending
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6.1 OTDR Parameters
There are four main settings that the technician must set correctly on the OTDR
before testing. Those are Wavelength, Index Of Refraction, Pulse Width and Distance
6.1.1 Wavelength
¾ 1550nm will see longer distances down the fibre due to the lower attenuation as
compared t0 1310nm
The index of refraction sets the OTDR to the proper speed of light for a particular
fibre link being tested.
¾ Changing the IOR value will change the distances to events on the OTDR trace,
and also the overall length of the fibre.
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.
¾ 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 fibre link, as the OTDR process weaker returned signals.
¾ Long pulse widths means more light energy is injected in the fibre. The more light
injected means the more light is reflected back from the fibre 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.
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¾ The General Rule to set Pulse width is:
¾ Shorter pulse widths can be used on longer fibre links to give greater detail to
events close to the OTDR and for fault analysis.
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 fibre
The OTDR is designed to detect the back scattering level all along the fibre link. It
measures the back-scattered signals, which are much smaller than the signal sent to
the fibre. 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 fibre, 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
car’s headlight dazzles our vision momentarily.
The dead zone depends on the pulse width, the reflectance, the loss and the location
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7. Cleaning of Connectors
CAUTION:-
Warnings:-
Do not use alcohol or other wet cleaner without a way to ensure that all
residues are removed.
There are three critical steps to ensure high quality optical connections.
1. Inspection
2. Cleaning
3. Re-inspection
The following are general steps that should be performed for cleaning fibre optic
patch cord connectors.
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3. Inspect the connector again using the fiberscope.
4. If the fibre end is still contaminated, attempt the dry cleaning method
again.
1. Move the thumb lever to expose the cleaning cloth. Each time the lever
is pressed, a clean section of cloth is exposed.
3. Do not re-use the same section of cleaning cloth once a fibre end has
been cleaned. To expose a new section of cleaning cloth, release the
thumb lever, then actuate the lever again.
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7.3 Wet Cleaning Methods
If the dry cleaning method does not adequately clean the connector, using isopropyl
alcohol swabs. Remember that isopropyl alcohol is not very quick drying and leaves
residue.
1. Holding the fibre connector perpendicular to the swab, twist and wipe the end
face several times.
2. Repeat the twist and clean with CLETOP cleaner as explained above.
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8. Specifications and procedures for Cable Installation &
Repairs
The depth at which buried cable can be placed will vary with local conditions i.e.
Type of soil and Terrain. However fibre optic cable must be buried at a minimum
depth of 80 cm.
Location Depth
Soft Soil 80 ~ 130 cm
Hard Soil / Rock Soil Minimum 80 cm
Road Way crossing Minimum 110 cm
Under mentioned diagram shows the typical layout of Direct Buried cable.
80 ~130 Cm
Warning
Tape
Soft Sand Soft Sand 20 cm
Fibre Optic
Cable
Soft Sand Soft Sand 20 cm
Legend
Back filling
Soft Sand
Undisturbed
Earth
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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
of cable, Fibre 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 asphalted.
CAUTION:
¾ Depths less than those specified may expose the cable to erosion or excavation
damage
¾ 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.
¾ At Hand Holes and Man Holes place the cable slack vertically (in line with the
cable route)
¾ 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
20 Cm
Splice Pit
2 x 2 Meter
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Buried Splice Point
Hand Hole Man Hole
Back
20 ~70 cm
filling
80 ~130 Cm
Warning
Tape Soft
Sand 20cm
Tiles
20cm
Direct Buried
Splice
Buried Joint Soft Sand 20 cm
Top View
Min 2Meter
Front View
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9. Points To Remember
9.1 Safety First!
Small scraps of glass i.e. cleaved-off ends of the fibres 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 fibre.
& Find and dispose-off all cut fibre fragments immediately after cutting.
& Dispose-off all scraps properly
& Handle cut fibre 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 fibre fragments ‘escape’ and injure
someone. If you lose a fibre fragment you must look until you find it.
& Fibre 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 don’t see
your fragment on the shelf of the cleaver.
& If you can’t 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 fibre optic microscope. NEVER look into a fibre unless you
personally confirm no light is present. Use a power meter to check it.
With fibre optics, our tolerance to dirt is near zero. Airborne particles are about the
size of the core of SM fibre- 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!
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& 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
& 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.
& Make sure that your test equipment is fully charged and you have spare battery
backup.
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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10. Check List and Procedures for Final Repair / Relocation
of Fibre Optic Cable
10.1 Civil works & Preparation in the field
1. Fibre utilization Form must be filled correctly for both sites of the section
involved
2. All working and spare fibres at both sites (ODF’s) 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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10.3 List of tool & Test equipment
Item in red are mandatory for emergency and final splicing (Item 1 to 13 in the list)
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 Fibres at ODF, SDH
technician must be available at both terminal sites of the section involved.
4. At least at one terminal site SDH technician must have Laptop for local login and
testing in case of any problem /outage or loss of association at TNOC.
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10.5 Execution OF TC/MDT
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21. In case of Manholes, secue the splice on the brackets in the Manhole.
22. Installation of Marker Posts.
23. Update the drawing and submit updated drawing and test results to LDN HQ.
1. OTDR testing from both terminal sites of the section involved immediately after
splicing.
2. Section loss test with MaxTester (Optical Loss Test Set) immediately after
splicing.
Priority of system changes according to the situation. Unprotected systems are always
on Top Priority. Under normal circumstances following sequence of System Priority
must be followed.
1. Unprotected System
2. DWDM Systems
3. High Capacity SDH Systems
4. Line Sections
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10.8 Emergency Repair Process
1. At all times satellite phone must be dispatched with cable team in order to avoid
communication problem during restoration activities in the areas without GSM
coverage.
3. Care must be taken in opening and closing of ODF trays to avoid damage or
macro-bending of pigtails and patch cords.
4. SDH technician must have power meter at one site and OTDR on the other site in
order to perform continuity test.
5. After mechanical splicing of each fibre, OTDR test must be performed to check
the quality of the mechanical splice.
6. Prior to connect fibres with the system, test with laser source and power meter
must be conducted in order to ensure the correct sequence and continuity of fibres
at both sites.
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11. Guidelines for opening and updating of Threatening
Trouble Tickets.
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This document explains the procedure to track the movement of third parties
along the cable route during the course of activity. This includes the third parties
and Detasad OP group working for relocations of cable.
1. Cable Patrol technicians must issue a verbal warning to the third parties
working within a distance to 10-50 meters from the cable route in order to
make them aware about presence of cable in the vicinity.
4. Third parties found working within 5meters of the cable route must be advised
to stop the work immediately and contact MC supervisor for the process of
physical cable location to avoid cable damages.
6. SV MC must send the cable technician to assess the situation and to get more
information for further action.
7. Once the warning letter is issued physical location of the cable must be carried
out by the cable technician and a request for opening a threatening trouble
ticket must be send to LDN HQ.
8. The warning letter is valid for a maximum of three months time and if the
work of the third party is not completed within three months new warning
letter must be issued and trouble ticket must be updated accordingly.
9. Physical cable location is also valid for a maximum period of three months
and it must be redone if the work of third party is not completed within three
months.
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Once the trouble ticket is opened and referred to the MC, MC must regularly update
the trouble ticket regarding on going activities of the third party until the work of third
party is completed.
Site A Site B
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2. Cable technician / Cable Patrol Technician must visit the sites of third parties
work regularly (at least every alternate day / every day for critical sites) and
progress of wok must be reflected in the threatening trouble ticket clearly with
reference land marks and kilometers readings. Remarks usually seen in the trouble
ticket “work in progress” is not enough.
3. All updates following the first update must reflect the progress of third party work
with reference to the start location. Always nearest Marker Post Numbers on left
and right side of the working area must be mentioned as reference.
Examples:
i. Company started work at xxx-meters from MP-xxx. The working area
is aaa-meters/Km wide along the cable route. (Refer Fig-13 Below).
LEGEND:
Site A Site B
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ii. Company has completed work at xxx-meters from MP-xxx. The area is
backfilled / not yet backfilled and currently they are working xxx-
meters from nearest MP-xxx direction site-A & YYY-meters from
nearest MP-YYY direction site-B. The working area is aaa-meters/Km
wide along the cable route. (Refer Fig-14&15 below). These updates
with references must be done continuously until the work of the third
party is completed in the section.
Figure 14: Information for Trouble Ticket update during course of activity
Figure 15: Information for Trouble Ticket update during course of activity
4. Updating of trouble ticket must also include the statement regarding status of
Marker Posts if these are damaged, broken, removed or missing during the activity
of third party. Affected Marker Post must be clearly identified in the update with
Marker Post No. and section (i.e. Site A and Site B).
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5. If the damage to Marker Post during the activity is observed warning letter
regarding damage to marker Post must be issued to the third party and an update
regarding issuance of warning letter must be included in the update of the ticket
with date, time, Name of person to whom the warning letter is issued and contact
number.
6. Once the work of the third party is completed. Ticket must be updated with
closing remarks which must include the complete status of cable route within the
working area of third party. For example not backfilled properly, debris and
construction material not removed from the cable route, No of missing, broken,
tilted or removed Marker Posts etc. (Please see Fig-16: below for reference)
Broken
LDN cable is under our O&M responsibility and Relocation work done by third
parties as well as Detasad OP group on this cable is required to be monitored in order
to ensure that the work is executed according to the STC specifications. Deficiencies
if any are required to be identified and must be escalated to STC Transmission
Operation Riyadh immediately after the completion of work. If these deficiencies are
not reported to STC TO well in time, Detasad has to clear as well as bear the cost to
clear these deficiencies. In order to avoid this, relocation work on LDN cable must be
closely monitored in addition to above mentioned guidelines. In this regard a study
was made and a Hand Over / Take Over Procedure was developed and submitted to
STC Transmission Operation Riyadh. The objective of this process was to formally
Handover the cable section to third party working for the relocation and to takeover
after the process of relocation is completed. Once implemented, this process will help
to control the activities of third parties working for relocation of cables under our
maintenance responsibility. This process is yet with STC Transmission Operation
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Riyadh under study for implementation. Until this process is implemented under
mentioned guidelines must be followed to control the activities of these third parties
in order to avoid penalty discussion due to deficiencies as a result of these projects.
1. During routine cable route patrolling cable technician must observe the
following during the process of cable relocation.
• OTDR and Section loss measurements were carried out for dark
fibres.
3. One day after the execution of MDT by the third party MC technician must
perform and record OTDR and Section Loss measurements for the
relocated section in order to verify the quality of work done by the third
party.
All deficiencies found must be recorded and pictures must be taken for the
deficiencies if any and complete report of these deficiencies observed during the
whole process together with the OTDR and Section Loss measurements must be
sent to LDN HQ within three days of the completion of MDT for further
escalation to STC Transmission Operation Riyadh.
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11.3 Updates related to MDT’s executed by third parties for
Relocation Projects.
Trouble ticket must include clear remarks if third party ignored the guidelines,
such as:
• Fibers at ODF of both sites were not disconnected by the third party in
coordination with TNOC prior to start MDT.
• OTDR and Section Loss measurements were not carried out for working
fibers prior to reconnection at ODF.
Supervisor of the MC is prime in this regard, he must make sure that trouble ticket is
properly updated according to these guidelines reflecting all events during the MDT.
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12. Cable Route Marker Posts
12.1 Types of Cable Route Markers Posts
Standard Distance
250 meters
Site A Site B
Site A Site B
Diversion
Site A Site B
Site A Site B
Relocated Area
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13. Relocation Options
All MC’s must strictly follow these guidelines. Region must ensure the
implementation through the under mentioned process.
1. Cable patrol Technician / Cable Technician must submit Daily Cable Route
Patrolling Report Form to the Supervisors with details of third parties working
on the cable as well as Marker Post status (i.e. tilted, broken, down and missing).
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2. Supervisor of the MC must ensure that these reports are reviewed on weekly basis
and a weekly status report is prepared.
3. Based on the weekly status report corrective action must be carried out on weekly
basis for the Marker Posts not related to Third party activities.
4. Warning letter to the third party must be issued regarding damage of marker posts.
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14. Guidelines for 3rd Party MDT/TC’s executed on existing
Fiber Optic Cables
1) MDT/TC Implementer (3rd Party) shall contact TNOC & NNCC at least 15
minutes prior to approve start time to notify that they are ready to implement
the MDT/TC activities as requested.
2) Confirm with TNOC for the go ahead during the approved start time.
4) Ensure that the system is stable. In case of outage re-connect the fiber in
coordination with TNOC and wait for their advice.
5) Once confirmed by TNOC that the systems are stable, MDT/TC Implementer
(3rd Party) shall disconnect the fibers at ODF one by one on site B of the
section involved - in close coordination (online) with T-NOC.
6) After confirmation by TNOC, that there is no outage and the system is stable,
the MDT/TC Implementer (3rd Party) can start work on Fiber Optic Cable.
8) After splicing, MDT/TC Implementer (3rd Party) shall conduct OTDR and
section loss test of the working fibers.
9) MDT/TC Implementer (3rd Party) shall reconnect the fibers one by one to its
original allocation on site A&B in close coordination (online) with T-NOC.
Pigtails/connectors must be cleaned (with cleaning cassette) before
reconnection at ODF. Reconfirm with TNOC if system is stable & working as
per the original allocation.
10) MDT/TC Implementer (3rd Party) should confirm from TNOC that all alarms
are clear on the route.
11) Once TNOC confirmed that there is no outage and/or alarm(s) on the route,
and MDT/TC Implementer (3rd Party) confirms that all the activities are
completed, TC / MDT can be declared as finished.
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15. Physical Cable Location
15.1 Introduction
Cable location is one of the most important aspects of the cable maintenance. It relates
to a technique for locating a buried cable, by comparing the radiation pattern of a
locating signal induced on the cable to an expected radiation pattern for such a signal.
Given that burial records may not always yield an accurate indication of the location
of an underground cable, we must physically locate cables in order to provide
warnings to excavating contractors.
In practice, a technician physically locates a buried cable using a cable locator and
cable locating works well when no other buried utilities are present in the area.
However, other buried utilities are often present in the same area as the cable and each
such utility will radiate the electromagnetic signal induced in the target line (i.e.
Cable). Consequently, a technician trying to locate a particular cable will some times
detect the signals at different locations, rather than the same location above the buried
cable. This may lead to wrong results. Therefore locating buried cables is a
responsible business. Accurate and precise information is required to be provided to
third parties as well as to maintenance teams. Wrong or incomplete information can
mislead the third party causing damage to cable during their activity as well as this
could mislead the teams during troubleshooting to find the exact location of damage.
A Cable locator does not locate buried cables! It detects a magnetic field around the
cable created by an alternating current (AC) flowing along the cable sheath. This
magnetic field forms a cylindrical shape around the cable and is known as the signal.
Alternating current creates the detectable magnetic field or signal because it is not
only field but also an oscillating frequency which makes the location possible.
The transmitter puts an electrical signal onto the cable or pipe being traced, while the
receiver picks up that signal, allowing the locator operator to trace the signal’s path
and follow the cable being located.
The electromagnetic field created by the transmitter can usually be set to a specific
frequency. Frequency choices can range from less than 1 kilohertz to about 480 kHz.
With this range of frequencies, it is important to keep one thing in mind
Always start out at the lowest frequency, and if that frequency works, don’t change it.
The reason is that lower frequencies seem to stay on the target line (i.e. cable under
location) and does not induce to the adjacent lines.
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15.3 Applying the Signal
There are three methods of applying signal with a transmitter:
2. Inductive method
With any method of applying signal, frequency choice is important to get the "most"
signal on the cable. Any signal applied to an insulated, buried cable leaks off to
ground; as it gets farther away from the transmitter, the signal gets weaker and finally
disappears.
1. Cable diameter.
3. Signal frequency.
Since we do not have any control over the first two conditions, the Transmitter offers
more than one frequency choice:
1. Low (<1 kHz): These frequencies usually provide the most accurate locate in
congested areas (the lower the frequency, the better). They are best for tracing
over long distances and do not couple easily to other buried conductors. These
frequencies are too low to be used with Inductive clamp or inductive methods
and so the conductive method should be used with these frequencies.
2. Medium (1 kHz - 30 kHz): Medium frequencies are the most useful general-
purpose signals. They allow the use of the Inductive clamp method. Although
they will couple to other nearby cables, medium frequencies do not do so as
strongly as high frequency. Medium frequencies travel less far than low
frequencies but farther than the high frequencies. They are best when the
Inductive clamp method is used (when the conductive method cannot be used)
and the tracing distance is one mile or less. These frequencies may not be
high enough to induce a strong signal on small diameter lines like telecom
cables.
3. High (30 kHz - 100 kHz): High frequencies attenuate over shorter distances
than low or medium frequencies. They travel well on small diameter
conductors (CATV and Telecom). High frequencies will couple strongly to
other nearby conductors. They work best with inductive clamp and induction
methods. If the receive signal is weak at the beginning of the trace, try a
higher frequency.
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4. Very High (100 kHz and higher): These frequencies attenuate rapidly with
distance and so are intended for shorter runs. They couple strongly to other
nearby conductors and will couple across non-conductive gaps such as cable
breaks. They work best with Inductive clamp and induction methods. Very
high frequencies are best for sweeping a large area to locate all buried cables
and pipes.
The three most common methods of sending signals are direct connect, general
induction, and inductive coupling. In the inductive coupling method, the cable must
be grounded to form a complete circuit path.
Connecting a signal directly to the cable is the most accurate method of cable
locating. The direct-connect method allows to physically attach transmitter to the
cable to be located by gaining access to the shield that surrounds the cable. That
means to connect it at a terminal site or cabinet by gaining access to the cable shield
which is usually grounded at this point.
Disconnect the shield from frame or rack ground point and connect one end of the
transmitter to the shield and other end to the ground bar so that the transmitter is
connected in series between the cable shield and ground bar. Do not disconnect the
far-end shield from ground bar since this supplies a far end ground.
When tracing a cable over a long distance, the signal strength decreases gradually as
the receiver moves along the cable. Missing splice point ground connection causes an
abrupt or distinct drop in signal. Therefore missing ground connection at splice points
ground connection can severely limit the tracing distance.
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15.3.2 Inductive method
If it is impossible to directly attach the transmitter to the cable, then the induction
method may be the logical choice. Here, the transmitter is placed on the ground
directly over the cable with transmitter arrow parallel to the cable to be located. This
is the simplest way to put signal on a buried cable. However, you have to have some
idea where the conductor is buried. When the Transmitter is turned on, a signal
current is induced into any parallel conductor within range. It is therefore important to
place the unit directly over the target cable. The effectiveness of this method
decreases rapidly if you place the Transmitter even 5 or 10 feet to either side of the
path. In congested situations where other services such as gas or water pipes,
Electrical cables are all buried nearby, it is not advisable to use the inductive method
because the signal will be applied to all nearby conductors causing confusion during
the trace.
When using the inductive method, the high frequencies (82 kHz or 455 kHz) should
be used. Both of these frequencies will couple to the nearest conductors. Keep in mind
that 455 kHz will definitely put signal on conductors other than the one you are
tracing.
The Receiver can pick up signals from the Transmitter through the air from 40 feet
away, even if no cable exists in between.
The cable must be well grounded at both ends to produce a good locate. In all
methods, the better the ground to the conductor, the stronger the signal.
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15.3.3 Inductive Clamp method
Another way to put signal on a cable is the Inductive clamp method. Although
inductive coupling doesn’t let the user directly connect to the cable, it provides a
higher level of confidence than does general induction. The Inductive clamp puts
signal selectively on a cable by clamping around it. This eliminates the need to
disconnect the cable. The Inductive clamp puts signal on a cable between grounds, so
where you place it is important.
Insert the plug into the transmitter jack BEFORE TURNING THE POWER ON, open
the jaws of the clamp and place it so that it completely encircles the desired cable.
Make sure the clamp can fully closed.
Trace the cable at a slow walk while moving the Receiver in a side-to-side motion.
Periodically mark the path. As tracing proceeds, remember that the most powerful
signal is near the Transmitter. As the Receiver gets farther away from the Transmitter
the signal strength drops off. It will be necessary to readjust the gain periodically to be
sure there is adequate signal for the Receiver to operate.
There are two modes for detection. One is called Peak mode and the other is called
Null Mode. In Peak Mode the Receiver will exhibit a peak response at the top of
target cable. The pitch of the sound from the Receiver's speaker increases to a
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maximum as the receiver crosses the cable. It diminishes as the receiver moves away
from the cable path. The numeric strength indicator also increases to a maximum.
Consequently in Null mode the receiver will diminish at the top of the cable. It will
exhibit increased response as it moves away from the cable path. On the display of the
receiver arrows are indicating the cable path as described below.
When all three arrow elements are OFF, the signal strength is not adequate to make a
directional determination. Keep searching based on the signal strength indication (you
may need to increase the gain) and the audio feedback, until one of the arrows comes
ON.
Always operate at the minimum gain that shows a clear "peak" over the target. It is
not important what the signal strength number is at the peak, as long as it clearly
decreases on each side of the target. It is NOT necessary to operate with a signal
strength close to 100%, the signal is saturating the amplifiers and the gain should be
reduced. For best results keep between 20 and 80. It is recommended to always start
from 50% gain selection.
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16. Colour scheme
BLUE 1
ORANGE 2
GREEN 3
BROWN 4
SLATE 5
WHITE 6
RED 7
BLACK 8
YELLOW 9
PURPLE 10
ROSE 11
AQUA 12
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