Times are tough these days, which is why many people are looking to save a few dollars any way they can. A couple weeks ago we made a video showing you How To Build an Inexpensive Wall Mount Fiber Box. We've already had quite a few customers thank us for that cost saving solution. Today, let's talk about making your own fiber optic patch cables.
Seems like just about everyone in the low voltage industry has made their own ethernet cat5e/cat6 cables at least once in their life (me included). And I'm sure you have too. So you're thinking, those are really easy and only take a few minutes, why don't I just start making my own fiber cables. Unfortunately, we're not comparing apples to apples here. Making your own fiber cables CAN be an easy process, but it's not very economical. I'm talking about the FAST fiber connectors from AFL Telecommunications. Although these connectors require only a couple minutes per strand to complete, they are much pricier than regular connectors and still require a couple expensive tools. It wouldn't make sense to buy these unless you already had the tools and did fiber terminations regularly. Even then, the cost of the connectors make this an expensive way to make fiber jumpers. If this is still something your interested in, watch the video below.
The other option for making fiber cables would be epoxy fiber connectors. These connectors have been around for quite a while now and are fairly inexpensive. The problem with these connectors is the amount of time involved in terminating them. In addition, you still need all the tools and testing equipment to get the job done. Well, I thought you were going to show us how to make fiber jumpers? That's where the "kinda" comes in. Watch the video below for a brief explanation on making fiber cables, but when it comes down to it, buying pre-made fiber cables is the way to go. You can order them in any length you need, with any type of fiber, and any type of connector. If you need more than 2 strands of fiber, or plan on using them for a long distance, I would recommend Pre-Terminated Fiber Optic Cable. Pre Terminated fiber assemblies are just like the fiber jumpers, but can be pulled long distances and are much more durable. To order any of the products talked about in this article, simply click the links above or visit Discount-Low-Voltage.com.
How To Make Fiber Patch Cords... Kinda
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Want more to see more Fiber Friday articles? Check out the others here:
April 2, 2010 - How To Terminate Unicam SC Fiber Connectors
March 26, 2010 - How To Terminate Unicam ST Fiber Connectors
March 12, 2010 - How To Install Fiber Optic Fan Out Kit
February 12, 2010 - Loose Tuber Fiber Vs. Tight Buffer Fiber
February 5, 2010 - FAST Fiber Connector FAQ
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