What’s the Difference Between No-Armored CPRI Cable and Armored CPRI Cable?

In modern communication network construction, fiber optic cables are critical components for ensuring stable and high-quality signal transmission. Choosing the right type of fiber not only affects installation efficiency but also directly impacts the long-term reliability of the network. No-Armored CPRI Cable and Armored CPRI Cable are two commonly used types of fiber cables in communication projects. They differ significantly in structure, protection level, application scenarios, and cost. Understanding these differences helps engineers and maintenance personnel make the most suitable choice based on actual needs.

1. Structural Differences

As the name suggests, No-Armored CPRI Cable is a fiber optic cable without an additional metal armor layer. Its main structure includes the fiber core, inner protective layers, and the outer sheath. It is designed to be lightweight and flexible, making it suitable for indoor duct installation or relatively safe environments.

In contrast, Armored CPRI Cable has a metal armor layer around the fiber, usually made of steel tape or aluminum alloy. The armor provides excellent mechanical protection, preventing pulling, compression, or rodent damage. It also enhances impact and pressure resistance, making it ideal for outdoor environments or locations prone to mechanical hazards.

In terms of mechanical strength, No-Armored CPRI Cable has relatively lower tensile and compression resistance, suitable for safe indoor applications. Armored CPRI Cable, however, can withstand external forces and pressure, ensuring the fiber operates reliably even in harsh conditions.

Key Differences Table

2. Application Scenarios

• No-Armored CPRI Cable: Is mainly used for indoor cabling, internal building fiber jumpers, and duct installations in relatively safe environments. Its lightweight design and small bending radius allow installers to efficiently and flexibly complete cabling in limited spaces, making it ideal for offices, data centers, or short-distance fiber connections, while keeping costs low for large-scale deployments.
• Armored CPRI Cable: Is better suited for outdoor environments, industrial areas, aerial pole lines, or data centers that require high mechanical protection. The armor layer prevents external damage, foot traffic, or rodent interference, ensuring long-term signal stability. Although heavier, it is ideal for long-distance installations or complex environments and helps reduce maintenance frequency and failure rates over time.

3. Performance and Signal Transmission

The signal transmission performance of No-Armored CPRI Cable and Armored CPRI Cable is generally similar because they use the same core fiber material and optical properties.

• No-Armored CPRI Cable: Has the advantage of being lightweight with a small bending radius, making it easy to install in confined spaces or complex duct systems. Its flexibility during installation minimizes bending stress and mechanical strain on the fiber.
• Armored CPRI Cable: Provides stronger mechanical protection, though the added metal layer increases weight and rigidity, making installation more challenging. Professional tools and personnel may be required. The armor ensures the fiber maintains stable performance in outdoor environments and over long distances, making it suitable for scenarios requiring high protection.

4. Cost Considerations

• No-Armored CPRI Cable: Has a lower manufacturing cost due to the absence of a metal armor layer, typically 20%-40% cheaper than Armored CPRI Using it in indoor or protected environments effectively reduces project costs while maintaining signal quality, offering high cost-performance value.
• Armored CPRI Cable: Although more expensive, it is suitable for environments with high mechanical risks. Its long-term mechanical protection reduces maintenance frequency and failure rates, making it economically viable over the long term.

5. How to Choose

When selecting a cable type, it is important to consider the installation environment, mechanical protection needs, and budget. No-Armored CPRI Cable is more suitable for indoor or duct installations and fiber jumpers in safe environments, offering clear advantages in weight and cost.

For outdoor environments, industrial areas, or pole-line installations with higher risk, Armored CPRI Cable provides enhanced protection to ensure long-term network stability. Choosing the appropriate cable based on the environment, budget, and signal reliability can improve installation efficiency and network dependability.

Conclusion

Overall, No-Armored CPRI Cable and Armored CPRI Cable each have their advantages. The former is lightweight and cost-effective, ideal for safe indoor installations, while the latter offers stronger protection, suitable for complex or harsh environments. Understanding their structural differences, application scenarios, performance characteristics, and cost implications helps engineers make informed decisions, improving both construction efficiency and long-term network reliability.