Connecting FIC and PIC Cables to the M7i Router

Warning: Do not look directly into transceivers or into the ends of fiber-optic cables connected to a transceiver. Fiber-optic transceivers emit laser light that can damage your eyes.

Caution: When handling fiber-optic transceivers and fiber-optic cable, observe the following precautions: Do not leave a fiber-optic transceiver uncovered except when inserting or removing cable. The safety cap keeps the port clean and prevents accidental exposure to laser light. Do not bend fiber-optic cable beyond its minimum bend radius. An arc smaller than a few inches in diameter can damage the cable and cause problems that are difficult to diagnose. Do not let fiber-optic cable hang free from the connector. Do not allow fastened loops of cable to dangle, which stresses the cable at the fastening point.

Plug network cables into the FIC and the PICs housed in the router.

To connect cables into the cable connector ports in the FIC or a PIC faceplate (see Figure 1, which shows a fiber-optic PIC):

1. Have ready a length of the type of cable used by the FIC or PIC, as specified in FIC Specifications for the M7i Router or the M7i Multiservice Edge Router PIC Guide.
2. If the cable connector port is covered by a rubber safety plug, remove the plug.
3. Insert the cable connector into the cable connector port on the FIC or PIC faceplate.
4. Arrange the cable to prevent it from dislodging or developing stress points. Secure the cable so that it is not supporting its own weight as it hangs to the floor. Place excess cable out of the way in a neatly coiled loop. Placing fasteners on the loop helps to maintain its shape.

Figure 1: Attaching the Cable to a PIC