Outside plant (OSP) cabling is the installation and maintenance of fiber optic cables and other telecommunications equipment outside of buildings. OSP cabling is used to connect homes and businesses to the internet, as well as to connect telecommunications facilities to each other.
The following fiber optic products are needed for outside plant cabling:
Fiber optic cables
Fiber optic cables are the medium through which light signals travel. OSP fiber optic cables are designed to withstand the harsh elements of the outdoors, such as extreme temperatures, moisture, and UV radiation.
Fiber optic splice closures
Fiber optic splice closures are used to protect and organize fiber optic splices. They are typically made of a durable material, such as metal or plastic, and they are sealed to prevent water and dust from entering.
Fiber optic distribution boxes
Fiber optic distribution boxes are used to terminate and distribute fiber optic cables. They are typically mounted on a wall or pole, and they provide a protected environment for splicing and connecting fiber optic cables.
Fiber optic patch panels
Fiber optic patch panels are used to connect fiber optic cables to active equipment, such as switches and routers. They are typically mounted in a rack or cabinet, and they provide a neat and organized way to manage fiber optic connections.
Fiber optic cable accessories
Fiber optic cable accessories include things like cable ties, heat shrink tubing, and splice trays. These accessories are used to install and maintain fiber optic cables.
In addition to the above products, ISPs may also need to purchase the following for OSP cabling:
- Conduit: Conduit is a pipe that is used to protect fiber optic cables from physical damage. Conduit can be buried in the ground or mounted on poles or walls.
- Handholes: Handholes are used to provide access to fiber optic cables that are buried in the ground. Handholes are typically made of concrete or plastic, and they have a removable cover.
- Poles: Poles are used to support fiber optic cables in overhead applications. Poles can be made of wood, metal, or concrete.
The specific fiber optic products that are needed for OSP cabling will depend on the specific application. For example, if you are installing a new fiber optic network, you will need to purchase fiber optic cables, fiber optic splice closures, fiber optic distribution boxes, fiber optic patch panels, and fiber optic cable accessories. If you are expanding an existing fiber optic network, you may only need to purchase fiber optic cables and fiber optic splice closures.
It is important to consult with a qualified fiber optic technician to determine the specific fiber optic products that you need for your OSP cabling project.