Abstract: A splice for an optical ribbon utilizes the elongated strain relief members in the ribbon as guide members to form a space in which the optical channels of the two ribbons are axially aligned to optically connect them. The splice and corresponding splicing method are particularly useful to gang splice two optical ribbons.

Abstract: A ribbon consisting of a plurality of optical channels each of which is situated between two strength members of greater diameter than the optical channels. A sheath surrounds the strength member and optical fibers in such a manner that it is bonded only to the strength members, thus permitting the optical channels to move relative to the strength members. If desired, a cushion tape may be interleaved between the optical channels and strength members to prevent the strength members from abrading the fibers. Further, if desired, the sheath may be formed of two tapes suitably bonded to one another at their longitudinal edges.A cable made from the optical ribbon of the invention includes a central core around which the ribbon is spirally wrapped and an impact sheath is applied thereover.