Fiber is fragile: The right cable tie prevents crushing and signal degradation. Use gentler options: Hook-and-loop, low-tension, and releasable ties protect fibers. Where reels are supplied with protective material fitted over the cable, the protection should remain in place until the cable will be installed. During installation, all curvatures should be smooth. This comprehensive guide delves into the installation requirements, explores the two primary cable types—self-supporting and messenger-supported—and offers practical. Fiber optic cables can be easily damaged if they are improperly handled or installed. The. Deploying fiber above ground on poles or towers removes the need for underground digging and is particularly useful when the ground is uneven, rocky or both.