Abstract: A fiber optic ribbon and methods of manufacturing the same include a plurality of optical fibers arranged in a generally planar configuration with a matrix generally connecting the plurality of optical fibers. A semi-solid film being disposed on at least a portion of an outer surface of the fiber optic ribbon, thereby reducing the surface adhesion of the fiber optic ribbon. During manufacturing, the semi-solid film can be applied before or after curing the matrix using suitable methods. The method of manufacturing also includes manufacturing a fiber optic ribbon stack and a tube assembly.

Abstract: A fiber optic ribbon includes a plurality of optical fibers arranged in a generally planar configuration having a primary matrix generally contacting optical fibers along a longitudinal axis forming an elongate structure. In one embodiment, the primary matrix has a cross-section with a non-uniform thickness, for example, an end portion with a generally bulbous shape. The fiber optic ribbon is useful as a subunit having a secondary matrix in contact therewith. The secondary matrix has a non-uniform thickness, thereby providing a fiber optic ribbon with preferential tear portions to aid separation of the ribbon into subunits. Other embodiments include a fiber optic ribbon with subunits having a secondary matrix with recessed portions to aid in the separation of the subunits.

Abstract: In a fiber optic cable having a plurality of optical ribbons, identifying information about each optical ribbon is conveyed by a series of colored regions of different colors visible on an outer surface of the optical ribbon matrix covering. In preferred embodiments of the present invention, the colored regions are formed in such a way that they do not cause microbending or the like. Preferably, the colored regions are formed during the process of extruding the matrix covering over the fibers, by injecting colored material into the extrusion die.

Abstract: An optical component having at least one optical waveguide, a primary matrix, a secondary matrix, and a marking indicia. The primary matrix includes a first major surface and a second major surface. The secondary matrix is adjacent to the first major surface and does not completely cover the second major surface. The marking indicia may be disposed on either the primary matrix or the secondary matrix. Other embodiments include an optical component having a layer that is an absorbing material that bonds with a marking indicia. Another embodiment includes a first matrix and a second matrix having different respective coefficients of friction (COF).

Abstract: A fiber optic ribbon includes a plurality of optical fibers arranged in a generally planar configuration having a primary matrix generally contacting optical fibers along a longitudinal axis forming an elongate structure. In one embodiment, the primary matrix has a cross-section with a non-uniform thickness, for example, an end portion with a generally bulbous shape. The fiber optic ribbon is useful as a subunit having a secondary matrix in contact therewith. The secondary matrix has a non-uniform thickness, thereby providing a fiber optic ribbon with preferential tear portions to aid separation of the ribbon into subunits. Other embodiments include a fiber optic ribbon with subunits having a secondary matrix with recessed portions to aid in the separation of the subunits.

Abstract: A fiber optic ribbon having a predetermined separation sequence including a first subunit having a plurality of optical fibers arranged in a generally planar configuration being connected by a first primary matrix. The first subunit being a portion of a first ribbon-unit. A second subunit having a plurality of optical fibers arranged in a generally planar configuration being connected by a second primary matrix. The second subunit being a portion of a second ribbon-unit that includes a plurality of subunits. A secondary matrix connects the first ribbon-unit and the second ribbon-unit. The secondary matrix has a preferential tear portion disposed adjacent to a ribbon-unit interface defined between the first ribbon-unit and the second ribbon-unit.

Abstract: In a fiber optic cable having a plurality of optical ribbons, identifying information about each optical ribbon is conveyed by a series of colored regions of different colors visible on an outer surface of the optical ribbon matrix covering. In preferred embodiments of the present invention, the colored regions are formed in such a way that they do not cause microbending or the like. Preferably, the colored regions are formed during the process of extruding the matrix covering over the fibers, by injecting colored material into the extrusion die.

Abstract: Optical fiber unit with optical fibers loosely contained within a flexible tube formed from two plastic strips which are bonded together along edge seams. The structure is completely flexible and the tube is compressible and deformable to assist in packing into channels in a cable while maximizing fiber density in the cable product.

Abstract: Optical fiber units having an optical fiber housed within a flexible tube which in a normal axially unstressed condition is sinusoidal and approaches the fiber first on one side and then on the other. With this structure, upon tube shrinkage occurring, the amplitude increases so as to bend the fiber laterally at desired positions along the fiber length.

Abstract: In optic cable there is provided a ripcord which lies partly within the sheath and partly outside the sheath by extending between overlapped edges of the sheath. Parts of the ripcord outside the sheath and spaced along the cable and are accessible by removal of directly overlying regions of jacket. No cutting of the sheath is required to access the ripcord which, however, after access may be used for ripping along the sheath.

Abstract: Optical cable with optical fibers and a water blocking element extending together along a passageway. The water blocking element swells upon contact with water so as to block the passageway against water migration. The water blocking element may be of filamentary structure, e.g. string or tape which acts as a carrier for water swellable particles, e.g. polyacrylate. The water blocking element may, however, be a filament of the swellable material which is spun with other filaments, e.g. polyester to form a string. The cable may be air pressurizable.