Which type of fiber-optic cabling is often preferred for indoor installations due to code compliance?

Tight-buffered distribution fiber-optic cable is often preferred for indoor installations primarily due to its compliance with fire safety codes and regulations. This type of cabling design minimizes the risk of flame spread, which is a critical consideration for building installations.

Tight-buffered cables have each fiber coated with a tight buffer for added protection and easier handling, making them suitable for environments where they will be moved or terminated frequently. The lightweight design, flexibility, and simplicity in direct termination also contribute to their suitability for indoor use, where space may be limited or where traditional large, outdoor-rated cables might be cumbersome.

In contrast, options such as outdoor-rated fiber-optic cables and loose-tube fiber-optic cables are generally constructed to withstand harsh environmental conditions, moisture, and temperature variations, making them less suitable for indoor applications where code compliance is crucial. Armored fiber-optic cables, while offering protection, are typically used in more rugged outdoor settings and may not meet the same indoor-specific requirements as tight-buffered options. Thus, tight-buffered distribution fiber-optic cable is the optimal choice in terms of meeting safety directives while being practical for indoor installation.