It’s crucial to have a good fibre cable installation if you want your network to run smoothly. But unfortunately, many people make the most common mistakes that can cause big problems down the road.
Incorrect fibre type
When it comes to fibre cable, there are two main types: single-mode and multi-mode. The type of fibre you need depends on the distance the data will travel and the speed at which it needs to travel. If you choose the wrong type of fibre, your data will either move too slowly or not at all.
Not testing the fibre before installation
You might think that it should just work once the fibre is installed. But that’s not always the case. So before you consider your job done, it’s important to test the fibre to make sure it’s working correctly.
Not using the proper fibre connectors
They are delicate and require special care when connecting them to devices. If you don’t use the proper fibre connectors, you could damage the fibre and cause data loss or corruption. Worse yet, you could injure yourself or someone else if the connector is not installed correctly.
Installing fibre in an unsuitable environment
These cables are sensitive to their surroundings and need to be protected from things like dust, extreme temperatures, and moisture. If you install fibre in a too harsh environment, it won’t work properly and could be damaged beyond repair. So before installing fibre, make sure the environment is clean and dry and that the temperature is within the acceptable range.
Not using fibre cable management
They are thin and fragile, so it’s important to use fibre cable management to protect them. If you don’t manage your fibre cables properly, they could be damaged or come loose, causing data loss or corruption. It makes it easier to identify problems with your fibre network and fix them before they cause major issues.
Installing fibre in an area with electromagnetic interference
If you install fibre in an area with electromagnetic interference (EMI), it can disrupt the data signals and cause communication problems. To avoid this, make sure to install fibre in an area that is free of EMI. If you’re doubtful whether an area has EMI, you can use an electromagnetic field (EMF) meter to check.
Not protecting the fibre from physical damage
They are strong, but they can be damaged by physical forces like crushing, bending, or twisting. To protect your fibre cables, be careful when handling them and avoid putting them in areas that could be damaged. For example, if you need to run fibre through a wall or ceiling, make sure to use a cable protector to prevent crushing or other damage.
Not using fibre cable enclosures
Fibre cables need to be protected from the elements, so it’s important to use fibre cable enclosures. Enclosures keep fibre cables dry and free of dust, dirt, and other contaminants that could damage them. They also provide physical protection in case of accidents or natural disasters. Make sure to choose an enclosure that is rated for the environment where it will be installed.
Not labelling fibre cables
Fibre cables need to be labelled to easily identify them later on. If you don’t label your fibre cables, you could waste a lot of time trying to figure out which one goes where. So label each fibre cable with its purpose, such as “Internet,” “Network,” or “Phone.” You can also include the date of installation and the installer’s name.
Not having a fibre maintenance plan
Fibre cables need to be regularly cleaned and inspected to ensure they’re working properly. Without a fibre maintenance plan, you could miss out on potential problems that could cause major issues down the road. A fibre maintenance plan should include regular cleaning, inspection, and testing of the fibre cables. It should also include a schedule for replacing damaged or outdated fibre cables.
If you’re planning fibre cable installation, avoid these 11 mistakes! And if you need help, don’t hesitate to ask a professional for assistance.
