Field Terminated vs Pre-terminated Fiber Optic Assemblies

27 Nov.,2024

 

Field Terminated vs Pre-terminated Fiber Optic Assemblies

Overview

Fiber optic cables are vital to a variety of industries and applications around the world. Unlike traditional copper cables, they can transmit large amounts of data at high speeds. In addition, their light weight and flexibility make them easier to install, maintain and repair, making them the first choice for countless data transmission applications.

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With the recent surge of fiber optics within the market in the past few years, The pre-termination fiber cabling system has become increasingly popular. The right fiber optic cables, components, and best termination methods are necessary for any upcoming project. While there are many options for fiber optic cables and connectors, only two major termination solutions are field and pre-terminated.

What are Field Terminated Fiber Optic Assemblies?

Field termination describes the fiber optic cable termination in the field or after the installation. When these types of cables are terminated, they need to be pulled between two points, then connectors will need to be attached and connected to a patch panel. In addition, before they can be attached to a panel, connectors need to be attached to each strand, and various tools will be needed.

Advantages

  1. Precision Lengths: Because these cables are cut to length before adding connectors, having these cables pre-determined for length is unnecessary.
  1. Easy Pull System: Fiber optic bulk cable is easy to pull from either end of the installation circuit.

Disadvantages

  1. Higher Labor Costs: Cost increases when fiber optic cables are terminated in the field. Various other tools are required, many steps are needed, and field technicians must be trained appropriately.
  1. Slower installation: Installation will take longer due to terminating the connectors and ensuring the fiber optic cables and components work correctly in the test.
  1. Potential Termination Issues: Termination issues can occur depending on the skill level of each technician and knowledge of fiber optic cables and assemblies. Field-terminated fiber optic cables can be inexpensive to purchase. However, by terminating the cost of any project, additional costs may be encountered on-site.

What are Pre-Terminated Fiber Optic Assemblies?

These cables are identical to field-terminated fiber optic cables; the only difference is that the manufacturer terminates these cables and components before shipment.

Advantages:

  1. Lower costs and time savings:  Since these cables arrive in the field, there is no need for cable termination preparation, connectors, or tool kits, and no testers are required. These fiber optic cables require minimal time and effort for any installer to implement.
  1. Project Efficiency: These cables are manufactured and shipped to the job site with connector terminations and proper polishing. The entire cable assembly is tested on both ends for ease of installation.

Disadvantages:

  1. Need for Accuracy: For these cables to function, they need to take accurate measurements. Users must usually plan length and lead time to avoid extra cable length.
  1. Associated Costs: Miscalculations in measurements can lead to additional charges that increase the material cost of your project.

As mentioned above, patch cables may be field terminated or pre-terminated. Field-terminated cables are terminated on the installation side. Pre-terminated cables are terminated at the factory.

When Should I use Pre-Terminated Fiber Assemblies?

Pre-terminated fiber optic cables offer several advantages over field-terminated fiber optic cables. Since they are field ready (i.e., require no preparation or testing), they are quicker and easier to install. Therefore, they reduce labor costs and reduce the risk of installation errors. Pre-terminated fiber optic cables are the perfect solution if you are looking to reduce project costs, reduce installation time, or reduce termination issues.

When Should I use Field-Terminated Fiber Assemblies?

While pre-terminated cables are suitable for many applications, they are not suitable for all applications. Because they are pre-cut before arriving at the field, their lengths may not be as accurate or precise as field-terminated fiber optic cables. If high precision and accuracy are critical to the application, it is best to use field-terminated cables to reduce the risk of measurement miscalculations.

What are the 6 Benefits of Pre-Terminated Fiber Cables?

1. Lower Total Cost

Our research shows that pre-terminated fiber optic assemblies can reduce installation costs by nearly 50% (or more) for (1) 12-strand pre-terminated fiber optic assemblies. Pre-terminated fiber can significantly reduce overall installation costs by eliminating rework, achieving termination efficiency, eliminating transmission testing, and eliminating the need for termination equipment and consumables.

2. Save Time

Rapid Manufacturing provides pre-terminated fiber optic assemblies in two to four days. Pre-terminated fiber can help shorten project deadlines and increase overall deployment speed. You no longer have to wait a week, two, or even three weeks for a custom fiber optic assembly.

3. Faster Deployment

Designed for rapid deployment, pre-terminated fiber optic cabling requires no field termination. This reduces the labor necessary so you can get the job done faster. You&#;ll need to do some pre-planning, but once you receive the cables, you&#;re good to go.

4. Proven Performance

Mission-critical fiber optic networks require the highest level of attention in cable assembly. Due to poor air quality, low end-face polish efficiency, and poor cleaning and testing protocols, field termination often affects the overall quality of the cable. Pre-terminated fiber optic assemblies should be manufactured in a clean room and undergo a series of inspections, including multiple end-face inspections and certification for specific insertion loss/return loss thresholds.

5. Reduce Waste

In many cases, installers still have to pay for their Waste to remove from the site on many projects, mainly if they include cable reels, and more importantly, installers buy a more accurate amount of cable that they pass through the meter instead Not a drum buy, how many installers mix up their installations, boxes full of oddly long cables, wish there was a project that would use them.

6. Complete Larger Installations without the Need to Hire Contractors

By using pre-terminated fiber, large projects can be installed with an equivalent reduction in labor because the Time to install the link is greatly reduced. This means reducing or eliminating the need to recruit additional labor. This will help your trusted and trained engineers do all the work.

Conclusion

Pre-terminated fiber is not a fad, it is an increasingly popular way to deliver fiber optic cabling in a more timely and cost-effective manner. It should not be limited to major projects delivered by large integrators; this approach can benefit projects of all sizes. If you plan to upgrade your data center, please consider pre-terminated optical fiber from HOLIGHT Fiber Optic. With our quick feedback, you can get a quote and place an order within an hour.

HS Code Fiber Optic Cable Classification

The classification of fiber optics products within the Harmonized System (HS) Codes presents a unique set of challenges that stem from several key factors. These obstacles not only require a detailed understanding of the product itself but also a keen awareness of the constantly evolving landscape of technology and international trade regulations. Below, we delve into these challenges more deeply, outlining the specific hurdles and offering insights on how to navigate them.

Rapid Technological Advancements

The field of fiber optics is at the forefront of technological innovation, with new products and applications being developed at a swift pace. This rapid evolution can lead to discrepancies between the existing HS Code framework, which is updated periodically, and the latest products on the market. As a result, businesses and customs authorities may struggle to find a direct match for the newest fiber optics products within the current HS Code classifications. Staying abreast of the latest developments in fiber optics technology and anticipating potential classification challenges are crucial steps in mitigating this issue.

Schedule B codes

For American exporters, the Schedule B code is a 10-digit subset of HTS codes. It must be mentioned on all documents or filings used exclusively for export. The US government tracks US exports using Schedule B codes for statistical purposes.

Schedule B codes are maintained by the U.S. Census Bureau instead of the International Trade Commission.

The first six digits of a Schedule B code, like HTS codes, should match those of an HS number. However, the last four digits of a Schedule B code may differ even from the HTS code, making it easier to accurately identify and classify products.

Difference between HS, Schedule B and HTS codes

After reading about these three codes, it&#;s easier to become confused as to which code you should choose while shipping your goods.

Take a look at the table below to understand the difference between them.

Difference between HS, Schedule B and HTS codes 

Number of digits  Import or export Governing authority  When they&#;re used

HS Codes

6

Global use

World Customs Organization

Used to reference classification with anyone outside the US

HTS Codes

10

US import

U.S. International Trade Commission

Specific to the US and must be used by US importers. HTS codes are not recognized globally

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Schedule B Codes

10

US export

U.S. Census Bureau 

They&#;re a subset of HTS codes. Companies that export from the US usually use these codes because certain HTS codes can&#;t be used for exports 

Functions of HTS codes

 

HTS codes have several functions in international trade. For starters, these codes help government officials identify the goods that are being imported or exported across US borders. HTS codes also enable officials to apply appropriate taxes for various product categories.

Besides being a vital tool for customs clearance, HTS codes classify and categorize products in a worldwide system. The US government and the international trading sector report and analyze the trade data using HTS codes. These codes give them insights into the inflow, import quotas, outflow, tax revenue, and domestic production of specific goods. This supports the US government and the international trading sector to make better policies to improve their international trade.

Being part of the shipping industry, it&#;s your responsibility to make sure your cargo has the right product classification code. Otherwise, your cargo may get stuck in the port and you may end up paying late fees like demurrage or detention or other port charges. Read on to find out how you can identify your product&#;s HTS code.

How do you identify your product&#;s HTS code?

Identifying your cargo&#;s HTS code is crucial. You can easily look up your product&#;s HTS code by using ITC&#;s free search tool here:

If you want to find out the Schedule B code for your cargo, then use the Census Bureau Search tool:

How to use HTS code to identify import duty

As we mentioned before, HTS codes also help you identify how much import duty you&#;ll have to pay. This can help you plan your logistics better and calculate the cost of shipping.

If you are importing from a country that has entered into an international trade agreement with the US, then the US customs duty rates on a particular commodity are likely to be reduced. However, this discount does not apply to all products. You can obtain detailed information about this by checking the official HTS list published by the United States International Trade Commission.

Specialized Nature of Products

Fiber optics products are inherently specialized, often designed for specific applications within telecommunications, medical devices, or industrial equipment. This specialization means that a one-size-fits-all approach to classification is ineffective. For instance, the same type of optical fiber could be classified differently depending on whether it's intended for use in medical imaging equipment or for broadband internet infrastructure. Understanding the intended use and the specific features of a product is essential for accurate classification under the HS Codes.

Detailed Technical Specifications

The precise classification of fiber optics products frequently hinges on their detailed technical specifications. Factors such as the wavelength of light the fiber is designed to carry, its mode (single-mode or multimode), and its protective coating or casing can all influence the correct HS Code. For businesses, providing comprehensive technical documentation to customs authorities can facilitate the correct classification and prevent delays in shipping or additional duties.

Integration into Larger Systems

Many fiber optics products are components of larger systems, and their classification can depend on the context of their use within these systems. For example, an optical fiber used in a medical endoscope might be classified under a different code than one used in a telecommunications network, even if the fibers themselves are similar. Understanding the broader system in which a fiber optics product is used can be critical for determining the most appropriate HS Code.

Fiber optics products are inherently specialized, often designed for specific applications within telecommunications, medical devices, or industrial equipment. This specialization means that a one-size-fits-all approach to classification is ineffective. For instance, the same type of optical fiber could be classified differently depending on whether it's intended for use in medical imaging equipment or for broadband internet infrastructure. Understanding the intended use and the specific features of a product is essential for accurate classification under the HS Codes.The precise classification of fiber optics products frequently hinges on their detailed technical specifications. Factors such as the wavelength of light the fiber is designed to carry, its mode (single-mode or multimode), and its protective coating or casing can all influence the correct HS Code. For businesses, providing comprehensive technical documentation to customs authorities can facilitate the correct classification and prevent delays in shipping or additional duties.Many fiber optics products are components of larger systems, and their classification can depend on the context of their use within these systems. For example, an optical fiber used in a medical endoscope might be classified under a different code than one used in a telecommunications network, even if the fibers themselves are similar. Understanding the broader system in which a fiber optics product is used can be critical for determining the most appropriate HS Code.

Navigating these challenges requires a collaborative effort between manufacturers, exporters, customs brokers, and classification experts. Keeping detailed records of product specifications, maintaining open lines of communication with customs authorities, and staying informed about changes to the HS Code system are all strategies that can improve the accuracy of fiber optics product classification. Additionally, leveraging the expertise of classification specialists or consulting with the World Customs Organization can provide valuable guidance in complex or ambiguous cases.

In summary, the classification of fiber optics products under HS Codes is a nuanced process influenced by the product's technical characteristics, intended use, and the context of its application. By understanding these challenges and adopting a proactive approach to classification, businesses can navigate the complexities of international trade more effectively, ensuring compliance and facilitating the smooth movement of goods across borders.

Optimizing Global Trade: Navigating Tariffs on Optical Fiber Cables for a Competitive Edge

In an effort to keep our valued clients informed on matters affecting the industry, we'd like to share insights on the current tariff situation for optical fiber cables classified under HS code .70.00.00. In the United States, these products are subject to a general duty rate of "Free," meaning no duty is applied under general conditions. However, it's crucial to note that products originating from specific countries, such as Cuba and North Korea, face a significantly higher rate of 65%. Moreover, optical fiber cables produced in China are subjected to an additional duty, which is the standard rate plus a 25% tariff due to trade measures imposed on Chinese goods.

This information is particularly relevant in the context of ongoing global trade dynamics and underscores the importance of understanding the source and classification of products. For Beyondtech and our clientele, the focus on European-made products offers a strategic advantage, circumventing the complexities and additional costs associated with tariffs on products from certain countries.

For those seeking further details, the HTS (Harmonized Tariff Schedule) provides comprehensive guidance on tariff rates and classifications for all merchandise imported into the United States. It's a valuable resource for companies navigating the import process and looking to optimize their trade strategies.

Disclaimer

This article provides a general guide to the HS Codes associated with fiber optics products. Given the complexity and specificity of HS Code classification, it is advised to consult with customs experts or relevant authorities for definitive classification. The codes mentioned here are based on a general understanding and may be subject to changes or revisions by the World Customs Organization or individual country customs authorities.

In summary, the correct classification of fiber optics products is essential for ensuring compliance with international trade regulations. By understanding the relevant HS Codes and the criteria for their application, businesses can navigate the complexities of trade more effectively.

Rapid Technological Advancements

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