Abstract: A junction box and hybrid fiber optic cable connector which permit repair of damaged fibers or copper conductors carried by a hybrid fiber/copper cable without requiring replacement of the entire cable assembly or retermination of the cable. A method of repairing a hybrid fiber/copper cable and connector.

Abstract: A cable element and a method of making the same, in which the cable element has a central strength member, a plurality of buffer tubes are disposed on the central strength member, each of the plurality of buffer tubes encloses at least one signal transmission element, and a layer of pressure sensitive adhesive is provided on the central strength member. The pressure sensitive adhesive is a repositionable adhesive and releasably couples the plurality of buffer tubes to the central strength member such that the plurality of buffer tubes can be coupled and uncoupled repeatedly from the central strength member.

Abstract: Disclosed is a fiber optic drop cable including at least one optical waveguide, at least one roving, and a cable jacket. In one embodiment, the at least one roving includes a resin matrix having a water-based acrylic composition that includes an ethylene-acrylic acid and a water-swellable component. The resin matrix has a percent by weight of about 10 percent or less of the flexible roving so that the at least of one roving is at least partially bonded with the cable jacket, thereby inhibiting buckling of the cable jacket. In another embodiment, a plurality of rovings are arranged in clusters in the cable for influencing the bonding between the rovings and cable jacket. Also, disclosed is a protective casing for protecting and routing optical fibers along with preconnectorized cable assemblies.

Abstract: The invention relates to the field of optical fiber cables, and more particularly to the field of low cost optical fiber cables. It is an optical fiber cable comprising a central reinforcing element (1), a plurality of optical fibers (4) surrounding the central reinforcing element (1), the bare optical fibers (4) being pressed in contact against the central reinforcing element (1) in such a manner as to be mechanically coupled to the central reinforcing element (1). The optical fiber cable of the invention is suitable for use in particular as a distribution cable or as an access cable in local networks.

Abstract: A method for manufacturing a distribution fiber optic cable is disclosed. The method comprises the steps of providing a plurality of optical fibers for a cable core. Transitioning at least one of the plurality of optical fibers between a first location and a second location, where one of the locations is disposed within the cable core and the other location is disposed apart from the cable core and applying a cable jacket. In other embodiments, the cable can be a portion of a cable assembly.

Abstract: A fiber optic drop cable including at least one optical waveguide, at least one roving, and a cable jacket. In one embodiment, the at least one roving includes a resin matrix having a water-based acrylic composition that includes an ethylene-acrylic acid and a water-swellable component. The resin matrix has a percent by weight of about 10 percent or less of the flexible roving so that the at least of one roving is at least partially bonded with the cable jacket, thereby inhibiting buckling of the cable jacket. In another embodiment, a plurality of rovings are arranged in clusters in the cable for influencing the bonding between the rovings and cable jacket. Also, disclosed is a protective casing for protecting and routing optical fibers along with preconnectorized cable assemblies.

Abstract: An optical fiber cable suitable installation using an air-blown method is disclosed. The optical fiber cable has a center tensile member located at a center of the optical fiber cable to provide tension-resistant force, at least three loose tubes each of which includes at least one optical signal transmitting medium, and located to surround a peripheral portion of the center tensile member, a binder surrounding the loose tubes to maintain an alignment pattern of the loose tubes, and a sheath located at an outermost portion of the optical fiber cable. The optical fiber cable has a polygonal sectional shape having smooth edges.

Abstract: An optical fiber cable has an optical fiber core wire and a tension member. The tension member is formed of a glass fiber reinforced resin linear material with glass fibers and a matrix resin, and satisfies the following requirements: (1) (EfVf+EmVm)d2?8.3/n wherein Ef represents the modulus of elasticity of glass fibers, GPa; Vf represents the content of glass fibers, %/100; Em represents the modulus of elasticity of matrix resin, GPa; Vm represents the content of matrix resin, %/100; d represents the diameter of tension member, mm; and n represents the number of tension members used in optical fiber cable; (2) (Ef/Em)?22; (3) Vf=0.6 to 0.88; and (4) an elongation at break of glass fibers of not less than 5% and an elongation at break of matrix resin of not less than 5%.

Abstract: A method of installing a cable including at least one communication element, such as an optical fiber, disposed in a buffer tube and a surrounding jacket. The method includes the steps of exposing a portion of the buffer tube over a predetermined length and forming the exposed portion of the buffer tube into a coupling coil having at least one loop. The cable installation method prevents fiber retraction in cable terminations by utilizing at least one coupling coil formed from the exposed buffer tube and advantageously yields coupling coil terminations with small diameter coils, requiring less cable for more efficient installation, and further provides for the coupling coil to be located within a splice closure for more visually pleasing terminations. Preferably, coupling coils are formed at each end of the cable and located in splice enclosures.

Abstract: Optical fiber cables with a central strength member encircled by a jacket having ducts which are disposed around the strength member and which receive one or more optical fibers with jacket material between the ducts and the outer surface of the jacket. The optical fibers are free to move in the ducts, and preferably, the optical fibers are tight buffered. Portions of the jacket intermediate the ducts connect to the strength member which resists longitudinal movement of the jacket relative to the core. However, the jacket can be separated from the core by manual pulling force after the jacket is axially and radially cut at a pair of diametrically opposite ducts. Preferably, the jacket has outer surface indicia showing the positions of the slots, and the cables can include water blocking materials.

Abstract: A preconnectorized outdoor cable streamlines the deployment of optical waveguides into the last mile of an optical network. The preconnectorized outdoor cable includes a cable and at least one plug connector. The plug connector is attached to a first end of the cable, thereby connectorizing at least one optical waveguide. The cable has at least one optical waveguide, at least one tensile element, and a cable jacket. Various cable designs such as figure-eight or flat cables may be used with the plug connector. In preferred embodiments, the plug connector includes a crimp assembly having a crimp housing and a crimp band. The crimp housing has two half-shells being held together by the crimp band for securing the at least one tensile element. When fully assembled, the crimp housing fits into a shroud of the preconnectorized cable. The shroud aides in mating the preconnectorized cable with a complimentary receptacle.

Abstract: A preconnectorized outdoor cable streamlines the deployment of optical waveguides into the last mile of a optical network. The preconnectorized outdoor cable includes a cable and at least one plug connector. The plug connector is attached to a first end of the cable, thereby connectorizing at least one optical waveguide. The cable has at least one optical waveguide, at least one tensile element, and a cable jacket. Various cable designs such as figure-eight or flat cables may be used with the plug connector. In preferred embodiments, the plug connector includes a crimp assembly having a crimp housing and a crimp band. The crimp housing has two half-shells being held together by the crimp band for securing the at least one tensile element. When fully assembled, the crimp housing fits into a shroud of the preconnectorized cable. The shroud aides in mating the preconnectorized cable with a complimentary receptacle.

Abstract: A unitized fiber optic cable 10 includes a plurality of unit cables 20, each of which also includes a plurality of tight buffered optical fibers 30. The unit cables 20 aid in segregating and identifying individual tight buffered optical fibers 30. Strength members, such as aramid fibers 14 can be located between the unit cables 20 and the outer cable jacket 12, instead of being located within the unit cables 20. Relatively thin unit jackets 22 can be made of a material that will not stick to the tight buffer or tight buffer layers 32 on the optical fibers 30, so aramid fibers 14 need not be located between the unit jacket 22 and the tight buffered optical fibers 30. The unit jacket 22 can be a highly filled polymer that can be the same polymer used in the tight buffer or tight buffer layer 32. The unit jacket 22 need not be a load bearing member.

Abstract: A robust protective casing is provided that includes an inner tubing having a passageway therethrough, an outer tubing, and a plurality of flexible strength members disposed between the inner and outer tubing. The protective casing has a wall tubing thickness ratio of the inner tubing wall thickness to the outer tubing wall thickness of about 0.5 or less while still inhibiting the kinking of the protective casing during relatively small bend radii. Additionally, an outer diameter of the protective casing is relatively small while still allowing the routing of a standard sized 900 micron tight-buffered optical fiber through the passageway. Thus, the protective casing is advantageous in applications where limited space is available space. A fan-out assembly using the protective casings is also described.

Abstract: A figure-eight fiber optic drop cable includes a messenger section and a carrier section connected by a web. The carrier section has at least one optical waveguide and at least one roving. In one embodiment, the carrier section has an average shrinkage of about 0.5% or less when separated from the messenger section during an average shrinkage test. Also the carrier section of the figure-eight fiber optic drop cable can have an average coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) section after being separated from the messenger section of about 5.0×10?3%/° C. or less for preserving optical performance. Furthermore, a maximum delta attenuation of the at least one optical waveguide during thermal cycling may be about 0.3 dB/20 meters or less at a reference wavelength of about 1550 nm at a temperature of about ?40° C. Other cable configurations are also possible with the invention.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an electroluminescent filament capable of emitting a plurality of colors and a method for manufacturing the same. Said electroluminescent filament of the present application comprises: A metal conductive wire as core wire; A medium insulating layer coated on the core wire; A light emitting layer coated on the medium insulating layer; A conductive layer coated on the light emitting layer; At least one or more transmission conductive wires wound at interval on the outside of the conductive layer; The transparent polymer casing tube covering the transmission conductive wires and the outer side of the surface of conductive layer not covered by transmission conductive wires; The polymer casing tube of at least 2 to 8 colors covering the outer layer of transparent polymer casing tube and forming light emitting filament with helical or sectional colors combination.

Abstract: A process for producing an optical fiber cable composite structural component, such as reinforcing members, buffer tubes, filler rods, jackets, and slotted cores, is disclosed. The composite structural components are produced by co-extruding a thermotropic liquid crystalline polymer (TLCP) and a thermoplastic matrix material into the composite structural component so that TLCP reinforcing fibrils are dispersed in the thermoplastic matrix material. The TLCP reinforcing fibrils undergo a high level of process induced orientation, are provided with a high aspect ratio, and small diameters. The composite structural component has a high modulus. The TLCP reinforcing fibrils may be made continuous or discontinuous.

Abstract: Disclosed is a fiber optic cable, comprising a central strength member, disposed at the center of the cable, for providing tensile strength; a plurality of inner tight buffered cores disposed in a linear form around the central strength member; a plurality of outer tight buffered cores, twisted in a spiral or S-Z form, for enclosing the inner tight buffered cores; and a jacket, disposed on an outermost circumference of the cable, for protecting an interior of the cable from external environments.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an electroluminescent light source. In particular, it relates to an multi-colored electroluminescent cable capable of changing colors, which comprises: a group of electroluminescent filaments which consist of a plurality of electroluminescent filaments of different colors and are insulated from each other, helically wound on the outer side of the axis; a transparent and flexible polymer casing tube disposed on the outer side of the group of electroluminescent filaments. The advantage of the present invention is low in power consumption, simple in structure, convenient for use, and has relatively long service life. The filament can be bent into a plurality of geometrical shapes as consumers demand, and it is beautiful and appealing.

Abstract: The invention relates to the field of electrical insulators, and in particular to the field of electrical insulators for optical phase conductors (OPPCs). The electrical insulator comprises a dielectric rod (1) having at least one slot (10), a flexible optical fiber cable (2) situated in the slot (10), a dielectric material (8) filling the slot (10) and holding the cable (2) in the slot (10) without stressing it, and a dielectric covering (3) surrounding the rod (1) and presenting outwardly-directed projections (30) in the form of skirts, the entire space situated between the rod (1) and the cable (2) being filled with said dielectric filler and holding material (8).

Abstract: A fiber optic cable is provided that includes a plurality of lengthwise extending, non-jacketed bundles of optical fibers and a cable jacket surrounding the bundles of optical fibers. Each bundle of optical fibers may include a binder, such as a binder thread, for maintaining the integrity of the bundle. The binder may include, for example, a binder thread formed of an air entangled, textured, continuous multi-filament thread. The fiber optic cable may also include a separation element for preventing adhesion between the bundles of optical fibers and the cable jacket without having to separately jacket each bundle of optical fibers.

Abstract: A compact optical cable comprises a tube having the shape of a hollow cylinder and including multiple cores of optical fibers mounted therein; a sheath formed by an extrusion process to surround the tube at a certain thickness; a plurality of strength members arranged inside the sheath; and, a plurality of pads arranged inside the sheath to ensure that each pad intervenes between the tube and the strength members.

Abstract: An optical fiber unit for air blown fiber installation, including an optical fiber wire; an inner coating layer formed on an outer periphery of the optical fiber wire with a modulus of elasticity ranging from 0.98 to 196 MPa; an outer coating layer formed on an outer periphery of the inner coating layer with a modulus of elasticity ranging from 196 to 1960 MPa; and a foamed plastic layer formed on an outer periphery of the outer coating layer.

Abstract: One embodiment is a fiber optic cable including at least one subunit, a tube, a plurality of strength members, and a cable jacket. The subunit includes a fiber optic ribbon and a sheath, wherein the sheath is tight-buffered about the fiber optic ribbon, thereby inhibiting buckling of the ribbon during temperature variations. The tube houses at least a portion of the at least one subunit to form a tube assembly. The plurality of strength members are disposed radially outward of the tube and are surrounded by the cable jacket. Other embodiments include a plurality of subunits in a stack with each subunit having a sheath for security purposes. Additionally, a tube assembly can have a fiber optic packing density of about 0.05 or greater.

Abstract: Covered optical fibers are provided comprising at least on optical fiber; and a buffer tube covering surrounding the optical fiber. The buffer tube covering is comprised of a blend of at least 40% by weight of a copolyether ester elastomer, at least 10% by weight of a rubbery modifier, and at least 10% by weight of an amorphous thermoplastic polymer, and has a melting point of at least 165° C. and a Trouser Tear Strength of less than 65 N/mm.

Abstract: It is an exemplified object of the present invention to provide a media converter so shaped that it may prevent damages and disconnections of an optical fiber cable and facilitates handling of the cable. A media converter of one aspect of the invention includes a converter part, connected to a first medium and an optical fiber cable as a second medium, for converting a signal between the first and second media, and an accommodation part for accommodating the optical fiber cable while maintaining a predetermined curvature.

Abstract: A nonmetallic, nonconductive strength member for use in a cable or as a component of a strength reinforcement system of a cable is provided. The strength member is constructed of low cost materials and includes multiple glass fibers coated with a coating composition. The strength member provides flexibility and high tensile strength. The strength member exhibits low smoke generation and low flammability properties. The coating composition includes at least a lubricant that imparts a substantially smooth surface and a low coefficient of friction to the glass fibers to help facilitate processing of the strength member(s) during cabling and stranding procedures. The coating composition also includes at least an adhesive component that helps to substantially adhere the glass fibers together and helps to form the glass fibers into the strength member. The strength member can be configured as a yarn or as a strand for incorporation within a cable and/or for arrangement with one or more cable components.

Abstract: A cable, and process for manufacture thereof, containing optical transmission elements. The cable having the following characteristics: a central element stretching in the direction of the cable longitudinal axis, where the central element has at least one slot open to the outside and where the slot runs on the outside of the central element in a helix or screw-like manner, with periodically changing rotation direction; several optical fiber ribbons arranged inside the slot in a stack, situated one above the other, where an additional equal lay stranding is applied to the SZ-stranding imposed by the slot path; and a single or multi-layer jacket surrounds the central element.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for determining and adjusting binder laylength during the process of manufacturing a selected fiber optic cable design. Specifically, a binder, having a distinguishing and physically detectable feature, is wrapped around fiber optic bundles or a buffer tube. A detection system detects the unique feature associated with the binder and thus creates a calculates a representative distance value. The distance value is calculated in relation the periodic spacing between two detected points on the physically detectable binder and is continuously monitored by a closed feedback loop. A computer receives status data from the closed feedback loop and compares the received data to a stored laylength parameter. In light of the comparison, an algorithm adjusts the binder head speed accordingly. This process repeats until the desired stored laylength is detected by the detection system.

Abstract: Optical cable (1) for telecommunications, having low PMD and attenuation values, said cable comprising a central element (4), a plurality of optical fibres (3) and a layer of polymer material (5) devoid of discontinuities and incorporating both the central element (4) and the optical fibres, each of the optical fibres (3) being ranged along an open helix trajectory along which it has a torsion with a mean value of zero and a local maximum value of between 0.05 turns/m and 1 turns/m.

Abstract: An optical fiber includes a first core having a relative refractive index difference of larger than 0.36%, and a cladding. The optical fiber has fiber cut-off wavelength &lgr;c of more than 1350 nm, cable cut-off wavelength &lgr;cc of less than 1285 nm, bending loss at a wavelength of 1625 nm of not more than 10 dB/km when wound at a diameter of 20 mm, transmission loss at a wavelength range of 1285 to 1625 nm of not more than 0.40 dB/km, transmission loss at a wavelength of 1383 nm less than transmission loss at a wavelength of 1310 nm, and difference in transmission loss at a wavelength of 1383 nm of not more than 0.04 dB/km before and after exposure to hydrogen. The lower bending loss of the optical fiber provides an optical fiber cable for use in a WDM transmission in wavelength range of 1285 to 1625 nm.

Abstract: An optical fiber cable that sustains reduced increase in transmission loss and optical fiber breakage when subject to external pressure exerted thereon, comprises an aggregate of elements including central buffer filaments disposed in the center part of the optical fiber cable and a plurality of optical fibers disposed around the central buffer filaments, as well as circumferential strength filaments disposed around the outer periphery of the aggregate of elements, and a sheath covering the circumferential strength filaments.

Abstract: The invention relates to the field of optical fiber cables, and more particularly to the field of low cost optical fiber cables. It is an optical fiber cable comprising a central reinforcing element (1), a plurality of optical fibers (4) surrounding the central reinforcing element (1), the bare optical fibers (4) being pressed in contact against the central reinforcing element (1) in such a manner as to be mechanically coupled to the central reinforcing element (1). The optical fiber cable of the invention is suitable for use in particular as a distribution cable or as an access cable in local networks.

Abstract: A fiber optic cable is provided that includes a plurality of lengthwise extending, non-jacketed bundles of optical fibers and a cable jacket surrounding the bundles of optical fibers. Each bundle of optical fibers may include a binder, such as a binder thread, for maintaining the integrity of the bundle. The binder may include, for example, a binder thread formed of an air entangled, textured, continuous multi-filament thread. The fiber optic cable may also include a separation element for preventing adhesion between the bundles of optical fibers and the cable jacket without having to separately jacket each bundle of optical fibers.

Abstract: An optical fiber cable comprises at least one central strength member, at least one optical fiber, a metallic conductor surrounding the fiber and, surrounding the conductor, a layer of an insulative composition comprising mainly a mixture of polymers comprising at least one high-density first polymer and one low-density second polymer which has a lower viscosity than the first polymer. It is preferable that the first polymer be high-density polyethylene and the second polymer be low-density polyethylene.

Abstract: An optical fiber cable that has a cable core formed by covering an external circumference of a coated optical fiber or a collective coated optical fiber with a cushioning member, a tension member, and a thermoplastic resin sheath for collectively covering the cable core and the tension member, wherein the cushioning member contains a blended fiber composed of a non-water absorbent fiber and a water absorbent fiber.

Abstract: The invention relates to the field of electrical insulators, and in particular to the field of electrical insulators for optical phase conductors (OPPCs). The electrical insulator comprises a dielectric rod (1) having at least one slot (10), a flexible optical fiber cable (2) situated in the slot (10), a dielectric material (8) filling the slot (10) and holding the cable (2) in the slot (10) without stressing it, and a dielectric covering (3) surrounding the rod (1) and presenting outwardly-directed projections (30) in the form of skirts, the entire space situated between the rod (1) and the cable (2) being filled with said dielectric filler and holding material (8).

Abstract: A strength member for a fiber optic cable having reinforcing fibers that are oriented in a non-longitudinal direction within a matrix material. By orienting the reinforcing fibers in a non-longitudinal direction within the matrix material, the strength member gains strength in tension and in torsion. The reinforcing fibers are oriented in a cross-helical pattern within the matrix material or they can be chopped into smaller fragments and randomly oriented within the matrix material. Additionally, the strength member can have a hollow core regardless of the orientation of the reinforcing fibers and still increase the strength of the strength member in tension and torsion. Finally, the diameter of the strength member can be altered by adding a soft plastic outer cover surrounding the solid strength member.

Abstract: A system for organizing elongated objects (such as wires, cables, pipes, hoses, ducts, tubing, and other similar items) into bundles to create a more uniform, neat and functional arrangement is disclosed. The system includes a fastener adapted to extend along the length of an elongated object. The fastener provides a continuous attachment to another elongated object or to another object for a distance along the length of the elongated object. The fastener is preferably integrated with the structure of the elongated object, or alternatively, it may be applied as a wrap around the elongated object.

Abstract: A unitized fiber optic cable (10) having cables (20) with respective buffer units (30) therein. Each buffer unit (30) includes at least two optical fibers (31) generally tightly held by a buffer layer (32) for sliding contact therewith. The buffer units (30) can be stranded about a central member (22) and enclosed in a jacket (28).

Abstract: The present invention provides coating methods for use in the manufacture of coated optical fibers. The coating methods of the present invention coat an optical fiber with a primary coating material that has a non-reactive colorant. A secondary coating material is applied over the primary coating material. The primary coating material may either be cured prior to application of the secondary coating material or both the primary and secondary coating materials may be cured at the same time to create primary and secondary coating layers over the optical fiber. In one embodiment, the secondary layer is formed of a substantially transparent material, visibly exposing the colored primary coating layer for inspection and/or measurement. The present invention further provides coated optical fibers made according to the coating methods of the present invention.

Abstract: A gas pipe explorer formed of a plurality of connecting elements, and an articulation element between the connected elements. The connected elements include drive capabilities, and the articulation element allows the connected elements to traverse gas pipes of arbitrary shapes and sizes. A sensor may sends the characteristics of the gas pipe, and the communication element may send back those sends characteristics. The communication can be wired, over a tether connecting the device to a remote end. Alternatively, the connection can be wireless, driven by either a generator or a battery.

Abstract: A dry optical fiber cable, for voice, video and data telecommunication based on a plurality of a loosely fitted tubes placed longitudinally and surrounding a central reinforcement element, said tubes accommodating at least one or several optical fiber filaments. This dry optical fiber cable is characterized because in the internal area, between the central reinforcement element and the plurality of tubes, it has a first dry protection layer; the interior assembly is then externally protected by a second dry protection. It then has a polyethylene cover followed by the third dry protection and finally a polyethylene cover.

Abstract: An optical fiber cable configuration having a central strength member. The central strength member includes a hollow tube. One or more strength rods are disposed along or within the tube. To avoid water penetration, the tube is filled with a gel or water-absorbing powder, which provides a water barrier.

Abstract: Disclosed is a fiber optic cable, comprising a central strength member, disposed at the center of the cable, for providing tensile strength; a plurality of inner tight buffered cores disposed in a linear form around the central strength member; a plurality of outer tight buffered cores, twisted in a spiral or S-Z form, for enclosing the inner tight buffered cores; and a jacket, disposed on an outermost circumference of the cable, for protecting an interior of the cable from external environments.

Abstract: A fiber optic cable having at least two interfaces being formed by first and second members. Between the interfaces is at least one retention area having an optical fiber component disposed therein. The retention area is disposed generally longitudinally and non-helically relative to an axis of the cable. The cable may also include a cable jacket substantially surrounding the members, a cushioning zone adjacent the optical fiber component, a water-blocking component and/or an interfacial layer. In another embodiment, a fiber optic cable includes a strength group having at least one strength member and an optical fiber being proof-tested to 125 KPSI or greater.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for protecting optical fibers embedded in the armor of a tow cable. The method includes the steps of winding a resin-impregnated fiber onto a stainless steel tube, and curing the resin to form a hard protective filament shell around the stainless steel tube. The fiber is a continuous fiber and the step of impregnating is either in combination with the step of winding or prior to the step of winding. The fiber used is any one of a carbon fiber, a Kevlar™ fiber, a boron fiber or the like. The winding is either applied during formation of the steel tube or subsequent to formation of the steel tube. The method further comprises the step of winding galvanized steel armor wires of a predetermined diameter around the tow cable core to form the tow cable and helixing the protected tube amongst the galvanized steel armor wires.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a cable, in particular an optical fiber cable, which is resistant to the radial permeation and to the longitudinal propagation of water. This cable contains a water-soluble polymer material which is a water-swellable and water-soluble material. In particular, this cable is characterized in that, following the ingress of water into this cable, the propagation of water is impeded on account of the combined effect of the swelling of the water-soluble material and the formation of an aqueous solution of said material which has a predetermined viscosity, so as to impede the passage of the residual water. Preferably, the water-soluble material is chosen from polyacrylamide, modified polyvinyl alcohol, vinyl alcohol/vinyl acetate copolymers, polyvinylpyrrolidone, and mixtures thereof, the material preferably being a vinyl alcohol/vinyl acetate copolymer.

Abstract: A fiber optic cable and method of manufacturing the same having at least one optical fiber component, at least one strength member and at least one ultra-low shrinking filament. The at least one ultra-low shrinking filament having a shrinkage of about 0.2% or less when heated and held at about 85° C. for about seven days. At least one strength member and at least one ultra-low shrinking filament being disposed generally between the at least one optical fiber component and a cable jacket. The jacket generally surrounding the at least one optical fiber component, the at least one strength member and the ultra-low shrinking filament. The cable can include an interfacial layer interposed between said at least one optical fiber component and the jacket. Additionally, the cable can be riser or plenum rated.

Abstract: An optical fiber cable configuration having a central strength member. The central strength member includes a hollow tube. One or more strength rods are disposed loosely in the hollow tube. To avoid water penetration, the hollow tube is filled with a gel or water-absorbing powder to provide a water barrier.