摘要 |
<p>A fiber optic data transmission cable in a coiled cable configuration is described which is comprised of a plurality of glass fibers, each comprising a glass core and a glass cladding, the individual fibers having a diameter over the cladding on the order of 30 to 50 microns. The plurality of fibers is grouped together to form a bundle with a generally circular cross-section, and has a cross-sectional diameter generally equivalent to a plastic-core fiber, that is, about 1000 microns. Around the plurality of glass fibers is a layer of soft resilient material, e.g., porous expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) tape. Over this is a heat-setable polymer jacket which provides the elastic forces necessary for extension and retraction of the coiled cable, as well as providing protection from external forces. The cable may be made in single-pod, two-pod, or multi-pod forms. Connectors can be installed on each end of the cable, which allows the cable of the invention to be used in conjuction with plastic-core fibers with little loss at the area of connection since the area of light transmission is the same.</p> |