Optical cable diameter and cross-sectional area
Cable diameter refers to the overall outer measurement of a conductor or finished cable, while cross-sectional area (typically in mm² or circular mils) defines the conductive portion responsible for current flow. Optical fibers are circular dielectric wave-guides that can transport optical energy and information. However, it can be tricky as it's not possible to directly measure the CSA of a wire or cable. For cables that have elliptical cross sections (such as NM cable), the cross-sectional area calculation is based on using the major diameter of the ellipse as a circle diameter. In the 2017 NEC ®, additional language was inserted to address other configurations of conductor assemblies in a conduit. This Specification covers the design requirements and performance standard for the supply of optical fibre cable in the industry.
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