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Key areas and methods for daily inspection of optical fiber cables

May. 27, 2025

The daily inspection of optical fiber cables is an important link to ensure their stable operation and extend their service life. The following are the key parts and methods for the daily inspection of optical fiber cables:

First, key inspection areas

Line routing

Ground and markings: Check whether there is any obvious collapse or excavation on the ground above the optical fiber lines, and whether there is any accumulation of debris. Meanwhile, check whether the routing identifiers are clear and complete, and whether there are any missing, damaged or buried identifiers.

Surrounding environment: Pay attention to whether there are any construction activities near the optical fiber lines, such as building construction, road excavation, pipeline laying, etc. These activities may cause damage to the optical fiber cables. Meanwhile, observe the changes in the surrounding natural environment, such as landslides, floods, fallen trees and other situations that may threaten the optical fiber cables.

Pole lines and overhead cables

The condition of the electric pole: Check whether the electric pole is tilted, cracked, damaged or has a sunken foundation. At the same time, check whether the pull wire on the pole is firm and whether there is any loosening or broken strands.

Overhead cables: Check whether the appearance of the optical fiber cables is damaged, aged or deformed, especially whether there are scratches or cracks on the sheath. In addition, it is necessary to check whether the optical fiber cables are firmly fixed and whether the hooks are complete and in good condition.

Pipes and underground cables

Pipeline facilities: Check if there is any water accumulation or blockage caused by debris inside the pipelines. Accumulated water may soak optical fiber cables and affect their performance. Debris blockage will affect the subsequent maintenance work.

Underground cables: Use professional equipment such as underground pipeline detectors to check whether the position of underground optical fiber cables is correct, whether the burial depth is sufficient, and whether there is any displacement. At the same time, check whether the protective layer of the cable is intact and regularly spot-test the performance of the protective layer.

Terminal and joint parts

Terminal equipment: Check whether the appearance of the optical cable terminal box, optical fiber distribution frame and other equipment is deformed or damaged, and whether the door lock is normal. At the same time, check whether the connection of the optical fibers inside the terminal equipment is firm and whether there is any loosening or oxidation.

Joint area: Check whether the sealing of the optical cable joint box is good and whether there is any water ingress or moisture. In addition, it is necessary to check whether the fiber optic reserve length at the joint is appropriate and whether there is any twisting or compression.

Other accessory equipment

Lightning protection, rodent prevention and insect prevention equipment: Check whether these auxiliary devices are in good condition and whether their functions are normal. For instance, whether the lightning protection grounding device is in good condition and whether the anti-rat plate is installed properly, etc.

Second, inspection methods

Foot patrol

Inspection personnel should carry necessary tools and equipment, such as underground pipeline detectors, optical fiber cleaning tools, readers, etc., and walk along the optical fiber line route without detouring. Hiking patrols can provide a comprehensive and detailed understanding of the changes along the route, promptly identify problems and handle them.

Regular inspections are combined with special inspections

Based on the importance and usage of optical fiber cables, a reasonable inspection plan should be formulated and regular inspections should be conducted. At the same time, in special circumstances (such as after heavy rain, frequent construction activities, etc.), the frequency of inspection should be increased to ensure the safe and stable operation of optical fiber cables.

Record and Analysis

During the inspection process, detailed records of the problems and abnormal situations found should be made, including the location, nature, and scope of influence of the problems. After the inspection is completed, the recorded data should be analyzed and summarized to formulate targeted maintenance measures and improvement plans.

Use an advanced inspection system

Introduce advanced inspection management systems, such as the long-distance communication line inspection management system. Through information button identification technology and computer information management technology, realize the automatic management and monitoring of inspection tasks. This can improve the efficiency of inspection, reduce human errors and ensure the quality of inspection.

In conclusion, the daily inspection of optical fiber cables should focus on key areas such as line routes, pole and overhead cables, pipelines and underground cables, terminals and joints, as well as other accessory equipment. At the same time, a combination of foot inspections, regular inspections and special inspections, record-keeping and analysis, as well as the use of advanced inspection systems and other methods are adopted to ensure the safe and stable operation of optical fiber cables.


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