Break Out

Break Out is a technique that is used to separate individual fibers or buffer tubes of a fiber-optic cable. The purpose of this technique is to splice or install optical connectors to the cable. This is done by stripping off the outer protective covering of the cable and then gently pulling the individual fibers or buffer tubes apart.

The fiber-optic cable is composed of several components that help protect the fiber and make it easier to work with. The outer protective covering is usually a type of plastic or rubber material that helps to protect the fragile fibers inside the cable. Inside the cable, the individual fibers or buffer tubes are bundled together. These tubes are usually made of a material such as glass or plastic, and they provide insulation to the fibers inside.

To break out the individual fibers or buffer tubes, a technician must first remove the outer protective covering of the cable. This can be done with specialized tools such as a cable stripper or a knife. Once the covering has been removed, the individual fibers or buffer tubes can then be carefully pulled apart. It’s important to be careful when doing this, as the fibers and tubes can be easily damaged.

Once the individual fibers or buffer tubes have been separated, they can then be spliced or connected to optical connectors. Specialized tools such as fusion splicers and heat guns are needed to make these connections. Once the splicing or connecting is complete, the outer protective covering can then be replaced.

In conclusion, break out is an important technique used to separate individual fibers or buffer tubes of a fiber-optic cable. It is necessary in order to splice or connect the cable to optical connectors.