The main difference between indoor and outdoor fiber optic cables lies in their construction and protective features:
1. *Indoor Fiber Optic Cables:*
- Designed for use within buildings or controlled indoor environments.
- Typically have a flame-retardant jacket for safety.
- May not have the same level of protection against moisture, UV rays, and extreme temperatures as outdoor cables.
2. *Outdoor Fiber Optic Cables:*
- Designed for outdoor use, where they are exposed to environmental elements.
- Have a more durable and rugged construction to withstand moisture, sunlight, extreme temperatures, and physical damage.
- Often have a UV-resistant jacket to protect against sunlight degradation.
- May include additional layers such as armored protection for added durability.
3. *Indoor-Outdoor Fiber Optic Cables:*
- Designed to be used in both indoor and outdoor environments.
- Have a construction that provides a balance between indoor and outdoor cable features.
- Offer protection against moisture, UV rays, temperature fluctuations, and physical damage.
- Can be installed from indoor to outdoor areas without the need for transitioning between cable types.
Using indoor-outdoor fiber optic cables ensures that you have a versatile and reliable solution that can be deployed in various settings, including transitioning between indoor and outdoor environments or harsh weather conditions like winter.