Armored fiber-optic patch cord uses a flexible protective tube, usually stainless steel, inside the outer jacket as the armor to protect the fiber glass inside. It will not get damaged even if stepped on, and they are rodent-resistant. At ZION Communication, we design and manufacture a full range of fiber patch cords for: This guide will help you quickly understand the main types of. Fiber optic patch cords are often treated as low-risk consumables, yet a large percentage of optical link failures originate at the patch cord level. Unlike backbone cables, patch cords are frequently connected, disconnected, bent, and handled by technicians, making them the most vulnerable. A fiber-optic patch cord is constructed from a core with a high refractive index, surrounded by a coating with a low refractive index, that is strengthened by aramid yarns and surrounded by a protective jacket. While it offers protection, its primary purpose is not to provide strength. Essentially, the jacket holds all components together: the aramid strength members and buffered fiber, which encompass the optic fiber. Aramid strength. When it comes to building or upgrading a fiber optic network, choosing the right patch cords is crucial for long-term performance and reliability.