As light signals travel through fiber cables, they lose some signal strength. This is known as decibel loss, and it can compromise signal integrity. Explore what causes DB loss in fiber cable and how engineers strive to minimize it and preserve data transmission quality over long distances.
What Are the Main Causes of DB Loss in Fiber Cable Transmissions?
Decibel loss occurs as fiber cables absorb or scatter light, material impurities, contamination, and poor connections. These losses are generally classified as intrinsic or extrinsic.
Intrinsic DB Losses
Intrinsic DB loss refers to those caused by inherent qualities of fiber cables. Impurities in glass fibers may absorb some light signals, while Rayleigh scattering occurs when microscopic impurities disperse some light.Â
These are largely unavoidable. However, you can work to reduce their impact by ensuring matched cable cores and sizes throughout data transmission networks.
Extrinsic DB Losses
Extrinsic DB loss occurs from external factors, such as faulty installation and improper component handling. Many types of extrinsic loss are preventable.
Physical stress on fiber optic cables is a leading cause of extrinsic DB loss. Stretching and compression can create distortions, including pressure points called micro bends in cabling, reducing its ability to transmit signals effectively.
Extreme bends in cabling may allow light to escape the fiber. These macro bends often result from improper installation such as too-tight bend radii or too many bends in a run.
Connectors can also be a source of extrinsic DB loss. Poor alignment, uneven splices, and dirty connections all inhibit light transmission. Oils, dust, and debris can also be sources of contamination.
Finally, environmental factors, such as temperature changes or excessive moisture, may cause extrinsic DB loss. Stabilizing conditions around the cable may help reduce the impact.
How Can You Minimize DB Loss in Fiber Transmissions?
Network engineers can mitigate DB loss to some extent through carefully planned routing, proper installation, and the use of clean, matching components. Additional measures to shield fiber optic cables from harsh environmental conditions may also help.
Cable Layout
Design fiber networks to minimize bends and maximize direct routes for optimal data transmission.
Installation
Fiber optic cables require special handling and precise splicing for optimal operation, and only qualified professionals should install them. This ensures that fiber cabling is run and spliced correctly and that all connections are made according to best practices. As a result, there is less chance of misalignment and other issues that contribute to DB loss in fiber optic cable networks.
Connectors
Connections are an inherent weak spot in any network. Using high-quality components with the correct interface is an important first step to minimizing decibel loss. They should all be kept clean and free from contamination during installation as well as during regular use.
Control Common Causes of DB Loss in Fiber Cable Networks
Equal Optics provides state-of-the-art networking solutions for data centers, enterprise operations, government offices, and security sectors. Our team can help you understand what causes DB loss in fiber cable and then select the right equipment and components to minimize its impact. Contact us to schedule a consultation.
