If the bend radius of a cable is not known, what is the generally accepted dynamic bend radius?

When the bend radius of a fiber optic cable is not specified, a commonly accepted guideline is to use a dynamic bend radius of 20 times the diameter of the cable. This guideline helps to ensure that the integrity of the optical fibers within the cable is maintained during installation and operation, preventing excessive stress that could lead to performance issues or damage.

The 20 times the cable diameter standard is rooted in practical experience and provides a balance between flexibility and protection for the fibers, allowing for safe routing in a variety of installation scenarios. This standard accommodates the need for movement and flexing of the cable during installation and while in use, ensuring minimal risk of microbending or macrobending that could affect signal quality.

This benchmark is essential for installers to follow, as different cables may have different construction characteristics, and adhering to this rule of thumb aids in avoiding potential pitfalls associated with bending the cable too tightly.