CPR, short for Construction Product Regulation, is Europe’s classification of cables based on their reaction to fire.

There exist seven different classes which define how a particular cable reacts to fire. Various criteria are taken into consideration when assessing a cable’s ability to resist fire, such as flame spread, smoke emission, corrosivity of gases, etc.

Please take a look at our blog post for more information about CPR.

Do I need CPR cables?

The answer depends on where you are going to install your cables. Cables which are not tested and certified according to the Euroclass sytem can no longer be used in European buildings or civil engineering works. In conclusion, you should check with local authorities if you plan on installing cables in a fixed installation, and particularity in public buildings.

How can I find CPR cables?

Use the filter called “CPR Euroclass” when you are in the Bulk Cables category.

What is Neutrik opticalCON?

Neutrik’s opticalCON is a military approved and light weight mobile field fiber optic cable system based on standard LC duplex connectors but without the fragility, guaranteeing a safe, dust free rugged connection. Thanks to this compatibility customers can choose for both the opticalCON ruggedized fiber optic cables for heavy duty use as well as standard LC fiber cable for fixed installations. This makes for the ideal solution for connecting equipment and integration into existing systems. As opticalCON is a ready made solution, different lengths are available with several packaging options (air spool, carrying case, drums).

What is the difference between Standard, X-TREME, and Armored opticalCON?

When you shop for Neutrik opticalCON fiber cables, you need to choose which type of cable you want to use. Neutrik offers different types of cables which differ in robustness as well as in their construction.

All types of cables benefit from the same ruggedness and protection from harsh environments. Not only are they robust, but they are also flexible, making them the ideal solution for mobile applications.

The core difference really lies in the solidity of their construction.

While all three types of cables can be used for outdoor applications, the X-TREME and armored versions offer an additional layer of protection for the most demanding environments.

opticalCON X-TREME features an armored double jacket of glass yarn in addtion to a black PUR outer jacket. This is the perfect type of cable if you want to protect your cables from rodents or cuts.

opticalCON Armored is even more robust as it adds an additional steel jacket capable of absorbing lateral forces of 200 kg/cm 2. Moreover, its spring shape construction makes it the most flexible from all types of cables.

How to choose the right fiber optic cable?

When choosing a fiber optic cable, you need to know a few things in advance.

Singlemode or multimode?

First, does it have to be singlemode or multimode? Multimode is best for short distances. If you need to transmit farther than 2km, you should consider using singlemode fiber.

PC, UPC, or APC?

Then, you need to choose which type of connector you need. Physical connectors (PC) are slightly polished in order to reduce the surface of the connectors, thus diminishing the optical return loss (ORL). What does that mean? The optical return loss is a measure of light reflecting and returning to the light source. The lesser, the better.

The Ultra Physical Connector (UPC) benefits from an even greater polishing than the PC. This results in even less light returning to the source.

The Angled Physical Connector (APC) differs from the other two in that its end face has an 8 degree angle which prevents even more light from returning to the source.

So, which one should you choose? There is not really one connector better than the other, because it all depends on your application. The answer is simple: if your application requires high precision optical signals, the APC is without a doubt the best fit for you.

To learn more about the different kinds of fiber connectors, we recommend you take a look here.

Cable Type

When searching for a fiber cable on our website, you will need to choose between different types of cables. You can refer back to the explanation above between standard, X-TREME, and armored opticalCON to find the cable which suits you.

Packaging

Lastly, you have the option to choose how you want your cable to be packaged. Basically, it means deciding whether you want your cable on a reel or just by itself. It is recommended to roll your cable around a reel, as this will make for a much cleaner installation and it will also be easier for you to put away once your work is done.

Neutrik has the perfect tool for you on their website

You can use the step-by-step opticalCON configurator from Neutrik to find the right fiber optic assembly for your application.