Can tight-buffered optical fiber cable be used outside buildings?

Tight-buffered optical fiber cable is designed primarily for indoor applications. The reason for this is that tight-buffered cables are typically protected by a layer of Buffer, providing mechanical protection and ease of handling, but they lack the robust outer armor or moisture barriers that outdoor cables possess. Outdoor environments expose cables to various elements including UV radiation, water, and extreme temperatures, which tight-buffered cables are not adequately equipped to withstand.

Outdoor-rated cables are specifically constructed with materials and designs that provide the necessary durability and protection against these environmental factors. They often employ loose-tube construction and are built to prevent water ingress, UV degradation, and physical damage.

Using tight-buffered optical fiber outside could lead to premature failure of the cable, resulting in costly repairs and outages. Hence, tight-buffered optical fiber cable should only be used indoors where there are controlled conditions.