The Fundamentals of lighting with fiber optics

Brightness: Brightness perception is dependent upon several factors such as color, background, contrast ratio, viewing angle and ambient light conditions.  If brightness is critical, then the illuminator model and strand count in the cable are important.  The 150-watt metal halide illuminator is approximately 10 times brighter than the 75-watt model and the 575-watt illuminator is 3.5 times brighter than that.  Also,. the greater the number of cable strands, the brighter the end result.

Location: Most illuminators are approved for indoor of outdoor use. Some models, however, are indoor only.  Adequate ventilation is important for all models. The fiber optic cable is UV protected so it may be installed almost anywhere.  Our fiber has been tested at temperatures from -40 degrees Celsius to 200 degrees Celsius.

Port Capacity: The port holds the fibers in place at the light box.  The maximum number of fibers varies according to the light box model.  Always take into account the port capacity when choosing an illuminator.  Remember, perimeter fiber works best when looped in and out of the light box.  Therefore, you must double up the strand count on perimeter cable.

Sidelight Cable: Optical fibers glow like neon along their length.  However, unlike neon, the cable is virtually unbreakable and is extremely energy efficient.  Safety, maintenance and operation cost should also be taken into consideration when making a comparison between fiber optics and neon.

Feature

Cost/100 ft
Installation
5 yrs. Maintenance
Total:

Neon

$2000
$1000
$1250
$4250

Fiber

$2000
$250
$250
$2500

SAVINGS

---------
$750
$1000
$1750

Feature
Color changeability
Re-useable
Use in or around water
Heat/electricity in run
Liability for breakage
High voltage in run
U.L/C.S.A. approved

Neon
NO
NO
NO
Yes
Yes
Yes
NO

Fiber
YES
YES
YES
NO
NO
NO
YES

Sidelight Cable Runs:  Up to 100 foot runs are ideal, a longer run of up to to 200 feet is acceptable depending on the application and illuminator model.  Wherever possible , sidelight cable should always be looped in and out of the light source. Not looping is acceptable up to a maximum approximately 75 feet. On long runs, multiple illuminators in series are the norm.  They may or may not be synchronized depending the the color effect desired. When using multiple illuminators, always try to keep each cable run as close to the same length as possible.  This will ensure the cables uniform brightness.

End Light Cable Runs: Maximum run is approximately 75 feet. However, it should be noted that the shorter the run and/or the more strands, the brighter the end result.  If multiple end light fixtures are used, the cable lengths should be uniform on lengths over 40 feet.