Abstract: A method and apparatus for accurately measuring the tension exerted upon a fiber optic cable (10) during its installation into a conduit (20) and preserving the reading of maximum tension for future reference. The apparatus (22) includes first and second member portions (26, 38) which are secured relative to one another by a bridge member (36). Bridge (36) has mounted thereon a deformable, electrically resistive element (44) through which a current flows and varies in response to the varying resistivity caused by the element's deformation. Current flow is, in turn, channeled through a microprocessor (48) which converts variations in current flow to equivalent readings of tension which are being applied to the cable (10). The tension readings are displayed by appropriate means.