Abstract: An optical fiber cable includes ripcords that are oriented in particular locations with reference to radial strength members and any armor overlap included in a housing for optical fibers. The ripcords are spaced 180° from each other and preferably 90° from the armor overlap region. Color coded or marked ripcords are also placed adjacent to RSMs, with color coding or other marking on external surfaces of the housing to indicate a pull direction for respective ripcords. The ripcords may be extruded with the RSM into a jacket housing or disposed in a grooved section formed into the RSM. Pairs of RSMs may also be disposed on opposite sides of a ripcord to protect the ripcord from being accidentally severed by cutting instruments during servicing of the cable.