Abstract: A hybrid optical fiber, copper conductor transmission media cable (20) which is suitable for use in local area network application includes a core (22) comprising two arrays (25,40) of longitudinally extending portions. One array (25) includes optical fibers disposed between two strength members (27--27) whereas the other array comprises metallic conductors (42--42). Each array includes a matrix material (30,45) in which the longitudinally extending portions are enclosed with adjacent portions being connected by a web (32,47). The two arrays are enclosed by a jacket (50) which has an oval shaped configuration. The configuration of component portions of the cable as well as the materials thereof are determined to cause the neutral axis of bending to be in a desired location which minimizes losses in the transmission media.

Abstract: An optical fiber cable (20) includes a core (22) comprising at least one optical fiber (23) which is enclosed in a tubular member (28) and which includes a non-metallic sheath system (30). The sheath system includes two contiguous layers (40, 50) of non-metallic strength members which extend longitudinally along the cable and which are wrapped helically in opposite directions about the tubular member. The layers of strength members are enclosed in a plastic jacket (36). At least some of the strength members which are capable of withstanding expected compressive as well as tensile loading are coupled sufficiently to the jacket to provide a composite arrangement which is effective to inhibit contraction. Those strength members cooperate with the remaining strength members to provide the cable with a predetermined tensile stiffness and to cause the cable to be relatively flexible.