How do I terminate fiber optic cable?
user
You’ll need to prepare: a cleaver, a striper, a cable clamp, a gauge, Kevlar scissors, cleaning supplies and the connector. Now, follow the procedures below to terminate fibers on your own.

1.First, cut and clean the fiber optic cable before you start. Use the clamp to fix the cable, assemble the connector housing, put the boot on the cable before you start stripping it.

2.Measure the jacket strip length with the gauge, use the stripper to strip off the jacket and cut off the Kevlar fibers with the scissors. Measure the buffer strip length and strip the buffer off at about 1-centimeter segments (1 centimeter at a time) to keep the fiber from bending or breaking. Then use the stripper to slightly clean off the cladding.

3.Insert the fiber strand into the trapdoor of the cleaver, fix it with the clamp and start the cleaver. After a precision cleave, you need to decontaminate the dust, grease or the leftovers of the cladding from the fiber. Use the cleaning supplies (alcohol) to draw the contaminants from the fiber and repeat this step several times until it’s clean.

4.Insert the fiber into the pre-assembled fiber connector until you feel the pressure to make sure it’s connected. Then slightly slide the boot up and tighten the connector. Lastly, remove the cable clamp and you got a finished fiber connector.
assistant
I think I cut my cable too short. Is there any way I can make it longer?
user
If you cut your fiber optic cable too short, it can be difficult to repair. However, there are a few options to try:

- Splice the cable: You can use a splice device to connect the cut ends of the cable to a new piece of fiber optic cable. This method requires careful alignment of the fibers, as well as a clean and dust-free environment.

- Use a fiber optic patch cord: You can connect the cut ends of the cable to a fiber optic patch cord, which acts as an extension. This is a quick and easy solution, but it may result in a loss of signal strength.

- Use a fiber optic connector: You can also connect the cut ends of the cable to a fiber optic connector, which allows you to connect the cable to another cable or device. This method is similar to using a patch cord, but it offers a more permanent solution.

If you are not experienced in fiber optic cable work, it's best to seek professional help. Improperly installed fiber optic connections can result in significant signal loss or damage to the cables and equipment.
assistant