CommScope_Fiber_patchcordsIt is essential to follow correct procedures in administration of fiber optic patch cords to achieve optimum performance and reliability. The principles of good management for fiber optic cords are similar to those for twisted pair cabling; however, there are special considerations with Optical Fiber Cable Distribution Box and extra Applying best practices at every stage will also minimize costs related to moves, adds and changes (MACs).
Best practices in fiber patch cord management can be divided into four parts:
Planning
Preparation
Patching
Validation
Planning
Administration activities (i.e., MACs) are initiated with a change request. The change request must contain all necessary information to begin the planning process. Once a request form is received, search the records to be sure of the circuit path.
Any changes or additions made since your cabling infrastructure was installed should also be documented. If the records are stored in a database, such as an Automated Infrastructure Management (AIM) system, a different screen can be displayed for each user. This screen should supply You with the information you need, including the riser and horizontal fiber pairs serving the particular area and the locations of available fiber.
CLICK TO TWEET: Managing fiber patch cords can be divided into four parts. Read James Donovan's blog to learn more.
Check Design Guidelines and Match Cords
Make sure you know the specifications and design of your fiber cabling. Ensure you have patch cords matched to the installed cabling, since Optical Fiber Cable Distribution Box cords of different types should not be mixed.
The first step in choosing a cord of the correct length is to determine the best route between its points of connection. Having established the best route for the points of connection. Having established the best route for the cord, find the required length by adding the horizontal and vertical distances.
When selecting a cord to make a cross connection, avoid excessive slack and provide a neat appearance. Tight or stretched cords will pull on connectors, and too much slack complicates cord management making the panel more difficult to work on.
Ensure you have cords of the right length available and that panels are fitted with correct cable management accessories. At the optical patch panel, route patch cords alternate toward both sides of the vertical cable management channels to prevent overloading one side.
Additionally, cords must be of the same or higher bandwidth as the behind-the-wall cabling. System performance regarding distances cannot be guaranteed if lower rated patch cords are used. Color- Coding of connectors for different fiber standards make it easy to avoid confusion.