Which optical fiber cables must be grounded?

Cables that contain metallic elements must be grounded to prevent electrical hazards and to ensure proper operation of the network. Grounding these cables helps to eliminate the risk of electrical shock and minimizes the potential for electromagnetic interference (EMI). This is particularly important in environments where both electrical and optical signals are present, as grounding can help maintain signal integrity and safety.

Optical fiber cables that have metallic components, such as support wires or armor, need grounding to manage these safety and performance issues effectively. Grounding the metallic parts of the cable can also help protect against lightning strikes and power surges.

In contrast, cables that are made entirely of optical fiber, without any metallic components, do not require grounding since they carry light rather than electrical signals. Therefore, proper grounding practices are essential only for those cables that include any metallic elements.