Information Technology Reference
In-Depth Information
FIGURE 7.17
Fiber-optic termination fixtures often have space for extra fiber to be wound. This multimedia
example also has copper wire jacks. (Courtesy of MOD-TAP.)
The use of a termination fixture, sometimes called a break-out box or fan-out
enclosure, makes freestanding racks the most conventional location for large num-
bers of fiber-optic terminations. This certainly is the case if you are using fiber for
the horizontal connections. The fiber is typically routed across cable ladders or
closed-bottom trays to each rack, and then down along the inside or back of a rail
to the termination location. Fiber-optic cables may be carried in a brightly colored,
corrugated plastic “innerduct” for additional protection. The use of innerduct is
mandatory if you use unjacketed fibers or highly flexible fiber cables, such as “zip
cord” cable. The innerduct has an additional advantage because of its fairly rigid
walls. It can be tie-wrapped in place with little chance of damage to the interior fiber
cables. Also, it bends easily, but keeps a fairly large bend radius because of its con-
struction. Fiber cables can often be placed in existing interduct much as you would
in a rigid conduit.
Caution
is the watchword when you are working with fiber-optic cable,
whether terminated or not. Terminated fibers may be connected to equipment that
