ADSS vs Figure-8 Fibre Optic Cable
ADSS vs Figure-8 fibre optic cable is an important comparison when selecting cable for pole-to-pole aerial fibre networks. Although both cable designs can support overhead communications infrastructure, they achieve mechanical support in fundamentally different ways.
ADSS incorporates its tensile strength within an all-dielectric, self-supporting cable structure. Figure-8 cable, by contrast, combines the optical cable with a separate integral messenger or supporting element arranged in the characteristic figure-8 profile.
Therefore, the choice is not simply between two versions of aerial fibre cable. Instead, engineers should compare the complete cable architecture, messenger construction, electrical environment, span requirements, installation method, hardware, supporting structures and lifecycle requirements.
The RapidConnect® A-Series™ ADSS Fibre Optic Cable Authority Hub provides the central technical resource for Anderson Corporation’s A100, A250 and A500 ADSS platforms.
This comparison explains where ADSS and Figure-8 cable differ and, importantly, why the appropriate choice depends on the aerial infrastructure.
What Is ADSS Fibre Optic Cable?
ADSS means All-Dielectric Self-Supporting.
First, all-dielectric describes a cable architecture that does not rely on metallic components for its structural support.
Second, self-supporting means the cable incorporates the mechanical strength required to support itself between suitable attachment points.
Therefore, ADSS does not require a separate messenger wire to carry the suspended cable load.
Instead, dielectric strength elements form part of the cable’s mechanical design.
For a more detailed introduction, our guide explaining what ADSS fibre optic cable is examines the fundamental construction and operating principles.
What Is Figure-8 Fibre Optic Cable?
Figure-8 fibre optic cable uses a different mechanical architecture.
The optical cable sits alongside an integral supporting messenger, with a connecting web between the two components. As a result, the cross-section resembles the number eight.
The messenger carries much of the mechanical load associated with supporting the cable between poles.
Depending on the particular Figure-8 cable design, manufacturers may use different messenger materials. Therefore, engineers must confirm the actual construction rather than assume that every Figure-8 cable uses the same supporting element.
In many traditional Figure-8 designs, however, the messenger is metallic.
Consequently, the electrical characteristics of the complete cable can differ significantly from those of all-dielectric ADSS.
The Fundamental Difference: How the Cable Supports Itself
The most important difference between ADSS and Figure-8 cable is the method of mechanical support.
With ADSS, tensile strength forms part of the cable itself.
With Figure-8 cable, a distinct integral messenger provides the principal support.
Therefore, both can create self-supported aerial cable systems, but they achieve that result through different structural designs.
This distinction influences:
- hardware;
- installation;
- cable handling;
- electrical characteristics;
- attachment design;
- span engineering; and
- long-term maintenance.
Consequently, cable architecture should be the starting point for the comparison.
ADSS Uses an Integrated Dielectric Strength System
ADSS cable distributes mechanical loads through purpose-designed non-metallic strength elements.
Therefore, the optical cable and its mechanical support operate as one integrated circular cable system.
This architecture provides an important advantage where an all-dielectric aerial communications cable is required.
Moreover, eliminating a metallic messenger avoids introducing a conductive supporting element along the fibre route.
However, all-dielectric construction does not mean engineers can ignore the electrical environment.
Instead, attachment position, electric-field exposure and jacket selection can still matter around power infrastructure.
Figure-8 Uses a Distinct Messenger Section
Figure-8 cable physically separates the optical cable section from its integral messenger.
Therefore, the messenger becomes a clearly defined load-bearing component of the cable architecture.
During installation, hardware typically interacts with the messenger according to the manufacturer’s cable and hardware design.
Consequently, Figure-8 installation practices can differ considerably from those used with ADSS.
The messenger material also becomes an important specification.
If it is metallic, for example, the complete aerial cable system introduces a conductive component between supporting structures.
ADSS vs Figure-8: Key Differences
| Design Factor | ADSS Fibre Optic Cable | Figure-8 Fibre Optic Cable |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanical support | Integrated into cable construction | Separate integral messenger section |
| Typical profile | Circular | Figure-8 profile |
| Metallic support required | No | Depends on messenger design; commonly metallic in traditional designs |
| Separate messenger installation | No | Messenger forms part of cable |
| Electrical architecture | All-dielectric | Depends on messenger material |
| Attachment hardware | ADSS-specific suspension and dead-end systems | Hardware selected for Figure-8/messenger construction |
| Span engineering | Cable-specific | Cable and messenger-specific |
| Power infrastructure suitability | Can suit engineered utility applications | Depends strongly on messenger and electrical environment |
| Wind profile | Based on complete ADSS diameter and construction | Influenced by Figure-8 cable and messenger profile |
| Cable handling | Managed as an integrated ADSS cable | Messenger and optical section require appropriate handling |
| Typical selection basis | Route, span, electrical and mechanical requirements | Route, messenger, span and mechanical requirements |
Therefore, neither construction should be selected simply because both products are described as aerial fibre cable.
Why the Messenger Material Matters
Messenger construction deserves particular attention when comparing these cable types.
A metallic messenger can provide substantial tensile capability. However, it also introduces electrical conductivity into the aerial cable system.
Consequently, engineers may need to consider:
- grounding;
- bonding;
- electrical potential;
- lightning exposure;
- induced voltage;
- separation from electrical infrastructure; and
- network-owner requirements.
ADSS avoids a metallic conductive support path because its mechanical strength comes from dielectric components.
Therefore, this distinction can become particularly important on utility infrastructure.
All-Dielectric Construction Can Simplify Some Electrical Considerations
Because ADSS does not use metallic structural support, engineers do not need to treat the cable as a metallic messenger system.
Consequently, ADSS can provide a useful architecture where utilities want a dedicated optical communications path across suitable electrical infrastructure.
However, ADSS should not be described as electrically unaffected.
For example, electrical-field conditions can contribute to surface effects on ADSS jackets in some high-voltage environments.
Therefore, correct attachment positioning and appropriate jacket selection remain important.
Anti-Tracking Jackets and Electrical Environments
For demanding electrical environments, jacket performance can become part of the ADSS specification.
The RapidConnect® A-Series™ incorporates an anti-tracking outer jacket as part of its utility-oriented design.
However, an anti-tracking jacket does not replace proper electrical-field assessment.
Instead, engineers should consider the complete environment, including conductor arrangement, attachment position and local conditions.
Therefore, cable construction and route engineering must work together.
Span Length Matters for Both Cable Types
Neither ADSS nor Figure-8 cable should be selected using cable type alone.
Instead, engineers need to understand the individual spans along the route.
For example, a route may contain:
- 60 m distribution spans;
- 90 m road crossings;
- 150 m open-terrain spans; or
- significantly longer specialised crossings.
Consequently, the mechanical design must reflect the actual support spacing.
Our technical guide to span length in ADSS fibre installations explains why individual spans, rather than average pole spacing, should guide ADSS selection.
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ADSS Provides Defined Span Platforms
The RapidConnect® A-Series™ provides three mechanical platforms:
A100 — Short Span
The A100 provides the short-span platform, with nominal spans up to 100 m.
Therefore, it provides a starting point for comparatively short aerial routes.
A250 — Medium Span
The A250 provides the medium-span platform, with nominal spans up to 250 m.
Consequently, it extends the range into more demanding medium-span infrastructure.
A500 — Long Span
The A500 provides the long-span platform, with nominal spans up to 500 m.
Therefore, it provides the A-Series™ platform for more demanding long-span routes.
However, these classifications are not unconditional span guarantees.
Instead, engineers must still consider cable configuration, environmental loading, sag, tension, hardware and supporting structures.
Figure-8 Span Capability Also Depends on Construction
Figure-8 cable should receive the same engineering discipline.
A messenger does not create unlimited span capability.
Instead, span performance depends on factors such as:
- messenger material;
- messenger dimensions;
- cable weight;
- cable profile;
- tensile characteristics;
- environmental loading;
- sag;
- tension;
- hardware; and
- supporting structures.
Therefore, engineers should use manufacturer-specific mechanical information for the exact Figure-8 construction being considered.
Do Not Compare Only Maximum Span Ratings
A comparison based only on maximum advertised span can be misleading.
For example, two cables may both nominally support the required pole spacing while having substantially different:
- diameters;
- weights;
- wind profiles;
- tensile characteristics;
- hardware requirements; and
- electrical properties.
Therefore, maximum span provides only one part of the comparison.
Instead, engineers should compare the complete aerial cable systems.
Wind Loading Affects Both Architectures
Wind applies transverse force to suspended aerial cable.
Therefore, both ADSS and Figure-8 systems need appropriate wind-load consideration.
However, their physical profiles differ.
ADSS generally presents a circular cable profile. Figure-8 cable, by contrast, incorporates both the optical cable and messenger section.
Consequently, engineers should use the relevant dimensions and mechanical data for the actual cable rather than transfer assumptions from one architecture to another.
Our technical guide Understanding Wind Loading in ADSS Fibre Cable explains the relationship between wind, span length, cable dimensions, sag and tension for ADSS installations.
Sag and Tension Remain Critical
Both systems require controlled sag and tension.
Generally, increasing cable tension reduces sag. Conversely, reducing tension increases sag.
However, excessive tension can increase loads on:
- cable components;
- hardware;
- attachment points; and
- supporting structures.
Meanwhile, excessive sag can compromise clearances.
Therefore, installers should follow the mechanical requirements for the specific cable system rather than tensioning the cable according to appearance.
Hardware Requirements Differ
ADSS and Figure-8 cable use different mechanical architectures. Consequently, their attachment hardware should not be assumed to be interchangeable.
ADSS installations may use purpose-designed:
- suspension assemblies;
- dead-end assemblies;
- protective components; and
- pole attachment systems.
Figure-8 hardware, meanwhile, needs to suit the messenger and cable construction specified by the manufacturer.
Therefore, hardware should form part of the cable selection process rather than an afterthought.
Why Correct ADSS Hardware Matters
ADSS transfers mechanical loads through its cable structure.
Consequently, attachment hardware needs to distribute those forces without damaging the jacket or internal components.
For example, unsuitable clamps can create excessive local compression.
Therefore, hardware selected merely because it physically fits the cable can create unnecessary risk.
Instead, engineers should match hardware to cable diameter, construction and mechanical loading.
Installation Methods Can Differ
ADSS and Figure-8 cable can also require different installation techniques.
For ADSS, crews need to control:
- payout;
- pulling;
- bend radius;
- cable twist;
- sag;
- tension;
- suspension hardware; and
- dead-end installation.
Figure-8 installation also requires appropriate control. However, the messenger-based construction changes how mechanical loads interact with the cable and hardware.
Therefore, installation crews should follow procedures appropriate to the actual cable architecture.
Pole-to-Pole ADSS Installation
ADSS provides a clean integrated cable architecture for pole-to-pole installation.
However, the route still needs engineering.
Our ADSS fibre optic cable for pole-to-pole installations guide explains the key considerations, including span selection, sag, tension, hardware and supporting structures.
Consequently, choosing ADSS does not remove the need for installation planning.
Instead, it defines the type of aerial system that needs to be engineered.
Supporting Structures Matter in Both Systems
Neither cable operates independently of the supporting poles.
Instead, mechanical loads transfer into the structures through attachment hardware.
Therefore, engineers should consider:
- pole type;
- pole condition;
- existing loading;
- attachment position;
- foundations;
- route direction; and
- additional aerial loads.
A pole with available physical space does not automatically have sufficient structural capacity for another aerial cable.
Consequently, structural assessment remains important regardless of cable architecture.
Direction Changes Can Increase Pole Loading
A straight intermediate span transfers loads differently from a significant route deviation.
For example, at a corner, cable tension creates resultant forces on the supporting pole.
Therefore, a comparatively short span at a major direction change can create substantial structural demand.
This principle applies to both ADSS and Figure-8 installations.
Consequently, engineers should assess route geometry rather than span length alone.
ADSS on Electrical Distribution Networks
Electrical distribution infrastructure highlights some of the differences between ADSS and messenger-supported cable systems.
ADSS provides an all-dielectric communications cable without a metallic support path.
Therefore, it can suit electrical distribution applications where the network owner and engineering design permit installation.
Our ADSS Fibre for Electrical Distribution Networks guide examines route surveys, attachment positioning, clearances, span selection, hardware and installation in this environment.
Consequently, electrical infrastructure should be assessed as a complete system rather than simply a convenient line of poles.
Figure-8 Cable Around Power Infrastructure
Where Figure-8 cable uses a metallic messenger, its conductive component becomes relevant around electrical infrastructure.
Therefore, network owners and designers need to assess the cable according to applicable electrical and infrastructure requirements.
The presence of a metallic messenger does not automatically make Figure-8 unsuitable.
However, it creates a different engineering situation from an all-dielectric ADSS installation.
Consequently, engineers should avoid treating the two systems as mechanically identical alternatives.
Telecommunications Pole Routes
Figure-8 cable can provide a practical architecture on suitable telecommunications pole routes.
For example, a messenger-supported design may align well with infrastructure where metallic aerial support systems are already accepted and understood.
ADSS can also operate across suitable telecommunications routes.
Therefore, the decision should reflect the actual project requirements rather than the assumption that one cable architecture belongs exclusively to one industry.
Utility Communications Networks
Utilities often require communications across existing aerial infrastructure.
Consequently, ADSS can provide an attractive architecture because it combines optical communications with all-dielectric self-supporting construction.
Our guide explaining Why Utilities Use ADSS Fibre Optic Cable examines these broader utility applications.
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However, utility suitability still depends on route engineering, supporting structures and the electrical environment.
Fibre Count Does Not Decide the Architecture
Both ADSS and Figure-8 cable can support multiple optical fibre configurations.
Therefore, fibre count alone should not determine which aerial architecture to use.
Instead, engineers should first establish:
- optical capacity;
- route conditions;
- mechanical requirements;
- electrical requirements;
- supporting infrastructure; and
- installation methodology.
After that, they can compare appropriate cable constructions.
Consequently, a 24-fibre ADSS cable and a 24-fibre Figure-8 cable may satisfy the same optical requirement while representing very different mechanical systems.
G.657.A2 Fibre in the RapidConnect® A-Series™
The RapidConnect® A-Series™ uses ITU-T G.657.A2 singlemode fibre as its standard optical platform.
G.657.A2 provides enhanced bend performance while maintaining compatibility with established singlemode networks.
However, fibre type and aerial cable architecture remain separate considerations.
For example, G.657.A2 does not determine whether ADSS or Figure-8 construction better suits a route.
Instead, the complete cable and infrastructure design determines that decision.
Cable Handling Requires Different Considerations
ADSS has an integrated circular structure.
Therefore, crews need to protect the complete cable against excessive bending, twisting, crushing and abrasion.
Figure-8 cable has a different profile because the optical section and messenger sit alongside one another.
Consequently, installers need to handle the cable according to that geometry and the manufacturer’s instructions.
In both cases, poor handling can damage the optical cable before the network even enters service.
Jacket Damage Can Affect Long-Term Reliability
The outer jacket protects the internal cable structure against the environment.
Therefore, crews should avoid:
- dragging cable across rough surfaces;
- crushing cable with unsuitable hardware;
- exceeding bend limits;
- scraping cable against structures; and
- introducing uncontrolled twists.
For ADSS, jacket condition can become particularly important where electrical-field exposure forms part of the operating environment.
Consequently, careful handling supports both mechanical and environmental performance.
Maintenance Requirements Can Differ
Cable architecture also influences maintenance.
With ADSS, technicians work with an integrated self-supporting cable and its dedicated attachment hardware.
With Figure-8, the messenger and optical section form distinct parts of the cable profile.
Therefore, repair methods, hardware replacement and cable handling can differ.
Consequently, lifecycle planning should consider the familiarity and capabilities of the network’s maintenance teams.
Comparing Initial Cable Cost Can Be Misleading
Cable price per metre provides an obvious comparison point.
However, it does not represent the complete installed cost.
Instead, engineers and procurement teams should also consider:
- hardware;
- pole attachments;
- installation labour;
- electrical requirements;
- grounding or bonding where applicable;
- access;
- structural work;
- maintenance; and
- expected service life.
Therefore, a lower cable purchase price does not automatically create a lower lifecycle cost.
Compare the Complete Installed System
A stronger comparison considers the complete infrastructure.
For ADSS, this includes:
ADSS cable + suspension hardware + dead ends + pole attachments + installation + testing.
For Figure-8, it includes:
Figure-8 cable + messenger-compatible hardware + pole attachments + electrical requirements where applicable + installation + testing.
Consequently, procurement should compare systems rather than simply cable reels.
Brownfield Network Upgrades
Existing pole infrastructure can create opportunities for fibre upgrades.
However, existing poles do not automatically mean that every aerial cable architecture will suit the route.
Instead, engineers need to assess:
- structural capacity;
- available attachment positions;
- existing services;
- electrical conditions;
- clearances;
- route geometry; and
- environmental loading.
Where an all-dielectric communications overlay provides an advantage, ADSS may become particularly attractive.
However, where established messenger-supported infrastructure and project requirements favour Figure-8 construction, that architecture may also provide a practical solution.
Greenfield Networks
Greenfield routes provide greater freedom to engineer the supporting infrastructure around the chosen cable system.
Therefore, designers can compare ADSS and Figure-8 architecture earlier in the project.
For example, they can consider:
- pole spacing;
- pole strength;
- attachment arrangements;
- electrical environment;
- cable capacity;
- installation methodology; and
- lifecycle strategy.
Consequently, cable selection can become part of the overall network architecture rather than a later procurement decision.
Which Cable Is Better for Long Spans?
There is no universal answer.
Instead, long-span capability depends on the specific cable construction and mechanical design.
The RapidConnect® A500 provides the A-Series™ long-span platform for nominal spans up to 500 m.
However, final suitability still depends on route conditions and engineering.
Likewise, Figure-8 cable span capability depends on the messenger and complete cable design.
Therefore, engineers should compare verified mechanical data for the actual products under consideration.
Which Cable Is Better Around Electrical Infrastructure?
Where avoiding a metallic conductive support path forms part of the design objective, ADSS provides a clear architectural advantage.
However, that does not mean ADSS can simply be installed anywhere on electrical infrastructure.
Instead, engineers must still assess:
- attachment position;
- electrical-field conditions;
- clearances;
- supporting structures;
- span loading; and
- jacket requirements.
Therefore, all-dielectric construction changes the engineering problem; it does not eliminate engineering.
Which Cable Is Easier to Install?
Installation difficulty depends heavily on the route, equipment, hardware and contractor experience.
Therefore, it would be misleading to state that either ADSS or Figure-8 is universally easier.
ADSS avoids a separate metallic messenger architecture. However, crews need appropriate ADSS hardware and tension-control practices.
Figure-8 integrates its messenger into the cable profile. However, installers must manage that messenger-based construction correctly.
Consequently, installer capability should form part of project planning.
ADSS vs Figure-8 Fibre Optic Cable – Which Cable Provides Better Reliability?
Again, architecture alone does not determine reliability.
Instead, long-term performance depends on:
- correct cable selection;
- appropriate hardware;
- supporting structures;
- environmental design;
- installation quality;
- clearances;
- maintenance; and
- lifecycle management.
A correctly engineered Figure-8 installation can provide reliable service.
Likewise, a poorly designed ADSS installation can fail.
Our guide to aerial fibre cable failure examines many of the factors that can undermine aerial fibre networks.
Therefore, engineering quality matters more than simply selecting a cable category.
ADSS Advantages
Depending on the project, ADSS can provide several architectural advantages.
These include:
- all-dielectric construction;
- no metallic messenger;
- integrated self-supporting design;
- dedicated optical communications;
- defined short-, medium- and long-span platforms;
- suitability for engineered utility applications; and
- a circular integrated cable structure.
Therefore, ADSS can provide a strong solution where these characteristics align with the route requirements.
Figure-8 Advantages
Figure-8 cable can also provide practical benefits in appropriate networks.
Depending on the construction and project, these may include:
- integral messenger support;
- familiar messenger-based installation methods;
- suitability for established telecommunications pole infrastructure;
- clear separation between optical cable and supporting messenger; and
- multiple construction options.
Therefore, Figure-8 remains a valid aerial cable architecture rather than an outdated technology that ADSS universally replaces.
ADSS Limitations to Consider
ADSS still requires careful engineering.
For example, designers need to consider:
- span capability;
- wind loading;
- sag and tension;
- compatible hardware;
- pole loading;
- electrical-field exposure;
- jacket requirements; and
- installation practices.
Therefore, the absence of a metallic messenger should never be interpreted as the absence of mechanical or electrical design requirements.
Figure-8 Limitations to Consider
Figure-8 systems also require project-specific assessment.
Depending on the cable construction, considerations can include:
- messenger conductivity;
- grounding and bonding requirements;
- electrical environment;
- wind profile;
- hardware compatibility;
- pole loading;
- span capability; and
- installation methodology.
Therefore, engineers should confirm the exact messenger and cable construction before evaluating suitability.
A Practical ADSS vs Figure-8 Fibre Optic Cable Selection Process
A structured comparison helps avoid selecting cable based on familiarity or purchase price alone.
1. Define the Network Requirement
First, establish fibre capacity, endpoints and communications objectives.
2. Survey the Route
Next, identify pole locations, spans, crossings, terrain and existing infrastructure.
3. Identify Critical Spans
Then, determine the longest and most demanding spans.
4. Assess the Electrical Environment
Where power infrastructure is present, establish the relevant electrical requirements.
5. Assess Supporting Structures
Next, confirm pole condition, loading and attachment possibilities.
6. Compare Cable Architectures
Then, determine whether all-dielectric ADSS or messenger-supported Figure-8 better aligns with the route.
7. Compare Mechanical Performance
Next, assess cable dimensions, weight, tensile characteristics, sag, tension and wind loading.
8. Compare Hardware
After that, identify the suspension, dead-end or messenger hardware required.
9. Compare Installation Requirements
Then, consider equipment, access, pulling methods and contractor capability.
10. Compare Electrical Requirements
Where relevant, assess conductivity, grounding, bonding and electrical-field considerations.
11. Compare Lifecycle Requirements
Next, consider maintenance, inspection, repair and future network changes.
12. Compare Installed Cost
Finally, compare the complete installed systems rather than cable price alone.
Therefore, cable selection becomes an engineering decision supported by procurement rather than a procurement decision that engineering must accommodate.
Frequently Asked Questions About ADSS vs Figure-8 Fibre Optic Cable
What is the main difference between ADSS and Figure-8 fibre optic cable?
ADSS incorporates its mechanical strength within an all-dielectric cable structure. Figure-8 cable, by contrast, uses a distinct integral messenger alongside the optical cable. Therefore, the two systems achieve aerial support through different architectures.
Does ADSS require a messenger wire?
No. ADSS is self-supporting and does not require a separate metallic messenger wire.
Does Figure-8 fibre cable have a messenger?
Yes, Figure-8 construction incorporates a messenger alongside the optical cable. However, messenger materials can vary between designs. Therefore, engineers should confirm the actual cable specification.
Is Figure-8 fibre cable metallic?
Not necessarily in every design. However, many traditional Figure-8 cables use a metallic messenger. Therefore, the actual messenger material should always be confirmed.
Is ADSS completely unaffected by electricity?
No. ADSS is all-dielectric and does not provide a metallic conductive support path. However, electrical-field conditions can still affect the cable surface in some environments. Therefore, attachment position and jacket selection can remain important.
Is ADSS better than Figure-8 cable?
Neither architecture is universally better. Instead, the correct choice depends on span requirements, electrical conditions, supporting infrastructure, installation, hardware and lifecycle objectives.
Which cable is better for electrical distribution poles?
ADSS can provide an important architectural advantage where an all-dielectric communications cable is required. However, engineers must still assess structures, clearances, electrical conditions and span loading before installation.
Can Figure-8 cable support long spans?
Span capability depends on the particular messenger and cable construction. Therefore, engineers should use verified manufacturer data for the exact Figure-8 cable being considered.
Is ADSS suitable for telecommunications poles?
Yes, where the route, supporting structures, hardware and mechanical conditions suit the ADSS design. ADSS is not limited exclusively to electricity utility infrastructure.
Should cable price determine whether I choose ADSS or Figure-8?
No. Cable price represents only one component of the project. Instead, compare hardware, installation, electrical requirements, supporting structures, maintenance and lifecycle cost.
More Fibre Optic Technical Resources – ADSS vs Figure-8 Fibre Optic Cable
For additional fibre optic product information, installation guidance and technical content, visit the Anderson Fibre Products YouTube Channel.
Choosing Between ADSS and Figure-8 Fibre Optic Cable
ADSS vs Figure-8 fibre optic cable is ultimately a comparison between two different approaches to supporting optical fibre across aerial infrastructure.
ADSS integrates mechanical strength into an all-dielectric self-supporting cable. Figure-8 cable, by contrast, uses an integral messenger alongside the optical cable.
Therefore, the correct decision should consider:
route + span + electrical environment + messenger construction + wind + sag + tension + hardware + poles + installation + lifecycle cost.
For utility and electrical infrastructure, the absence of a metallic messenger can make ADSS particularly attractive. However, route engineering remains essential.
Meanwhile, Figure-8 cable can remain a practical solution where messenger-supported aerial construction aligns with the infrastructure and project requirements.
Consequently, neither architecture should be selected from a product name or cable price alone. Instead, engineers should select the complete aerial cable system that best matches the network.
For detailed information about RapidConnect® A-Series™ ADSS construction and the A100, A250 and A500 platforms, visit the RapidConnect® A-Series™ ADSS Fibre Optic Cable Authority Hub.