10 Difference Between RFOU and BFOU Cable (with Table)

Are you in the market for a reliable, high-speed cable that offers unparalleled performance and reliability? If so, you’ll want to take a closer look at RFOU and BFOU cables. But what is the difference between the two?

RFOU (Resistance-Foam-Filled Outer sheath) and BFOU (Bonded-Foam-Filled Outer sheath) are two of the most popular cables used for telecom and data transmission. While both cables offer great performance, there are some key differences that can help you decide which one is right for your needs.

In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at the differences between RFOU and BFOU cables to help you make an informed buying decision. Read on to learn more and make the best choice for your needs.

Difference Between RFOU and BFOU Cable with Table

RFOU and BFOU are types of cables that are used in telecommunications and networking applications. Here are ten differences between RFOU and BFOU cables:

Feature	RFOU Cable	BFOU Cable
Definition	A cable that is designed for use in outdoor environments and is resistant to fire, water, and other environmental factors	A cable that is designed for use in outdoor environments and is resistant to fire and water, but may not be as resistant to other environmental factors as RFOU cable
Fire Resistance	Resistant to fire	Resistant to fire
Water Resistance	Resistant to water	Resistant to water
Environmental Resistance	Generally more resistant to environmental factors such as extreme temperatures and UV radiation	May be less resistant to environmental factors such as extreme temperatures and UV radiation
Signal Quality	Generally has good signal quality	May have poorer signal quality due to less protection against environmental factors
Durability	Generally more durable due to enhanced environmental resistance	May be less durable due to less protection against environmental factors
Cost	Typically more expensive due to enhanced environmental resistance	Typically less expensive due to less protection against environmental factors
Applications	Used in outdoor environments where enhanced resistance to environmental factors is required	Used in outdoor environments where basic resistance to fire and water is sufficient
Flexibility	May be less flexible due to enhanced environmental resistance	Generally more flexible due to less protection against environmental factors
Size	May be larger due to enhanced environmental resistance	Generally smaller due to less protection against environmental factors
Weight	May be heavier due to enhanced environmental resistance	Generally lighter due to less protection against environmental factors

Note that the specific characteristics of an RFOU or BFOU cable may vary depending on the specific design and materials used.

What is RFOU cable?

RFOU (Restricted Fire Protection Optical Unarmored) cable is a type of fiber optic cable designed for use in fire protection systems. It is designed to be used in areas where fire protection is required, such as aircraft, shipboard, and tunnel applications. The cable is designed to be used in harsh environments where the cables may be exposed to physical damage, high temperatures, and extreme stress.

The cable is constructed from a single strand of glass or plastic, and it is surrounded by a highly flame–retardant jacket. The jacket prevents the spread of fire, while the single strand of glass or plastic ensures that the signal transmission is clear and uninterrupted. The cable is also highly resistant to corrosion and environmental extremes, making it an ideal choice for harsh environments.

What is BFOU  Cable?

BFOU Cable (Bare Fiber Optic Underwater) is a type of optical cable designed to be used in underwater applications. It consists of a single–mode or multi–mode optical fiber, surrounded by a protective outer sheath. The outer sheath is made of polyethylene or polyurethane and is designed to protect the cable against abrasion, corrosion, and other environmental conditions.

The core of the cable is made of a single–mode or multi–mode optical fiber, which is designed to transmit high–speed digital data over long distances. BFOU cable is used in a variety of underwater applications, including offshore oil and gas operations, submarine communication networks, and underwater exploration.

The Features of RFOU Cable

It is a type of unshielded twisted pair (UTP) cable that is filled with a riser–rated flame–retardant material and wrapped in an overall shield.

Riser-Rated Flame-Retardant Material

RFOU cables are designed with a riser-rated flame-retardant material that is designed to reduce the spread of fire and smoke in the event of a fire. This material is also designed to resist the spread of heat, reducing the risk of fire damage.

Overall Shield

The overall shield is designed to protect the cable from external interference, such as electrical noise and electromagnetic interference (EMI). It also helps to reduce the overall cable size, making it easier to install in tight spaces.

Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP) Cable

The unshielded twisted pair (UTP) cable design provides excellent electrical performance, reducing crosstalk and other signal interference. It also allows for greater flexibility in the installation process.

Durability

RFOU cables are designed to withstand harsh environments, including temperature extremes, moisture, and UV radiation. This makes them ideal for use in a variety of applications, including those in industrial and outdoor settings.

Cost-Effectiveness

RFOU cables are typically more cost-effective than other types of cable, such as shielded twisted pair (STP) and shielded coaxial (SC) cables. This makes them a great choice for applications where cost is a primary consideration.

The Features of BFOU Cable

Construction

BFOU cable typically consists of two or more insulated conductors, a bare or tinned copper ground wire, and a thermoplastic or thermosetting insulation jacket.

Specifications

BFOU cable is available in a variety of sizes, including 3/C, 4/C, and 5/C, with a voltage rating of 600V. The standard wire size for a 3/C configuration ranges from 16 AWG to 4 AWG.

Insulation

BFOU cable features a flame-retardant, moisture-resistant thermoplastic or thermosetting insulation jacket that is suitable for both dry and wet locations. The insulation can also resist abrasion and chemicals.

Conductors

BFOU cable is composed of two or more insulated conductors, which are typically made of pure annealed copper. The insulation is designed to withstand temperatures up to 90°C and has a voltage rating of 600V.

Ground Wire

A bare or tinned copper ground wire is also included in the cable, providing a protective shield in the event of an electrical fault.

Applications

BFOU cable is suitable for a variety of applications, including power distribution, signal transmission, and control circuits. It is commonly used in commercial and industrial settings for applications such as lighting, motors, and heating systems.

30-Seconds Summary: BFOU Cable vs RFOU Cable

• BFOU Cable uses twisted pair copper wire as the medium for transmission, whereas RFOU Cable uses coaxial cable.
• BFOU Cable is limited to a maximum length of 100 meters, whereas RFOU Cable can be up to several kilometers in length.
• BFOU Cable is limited to lower frequencies, while RFOU Cable has a much wider frequency range.
• BFOU Cable has a higher attenuation rate than RFOU Cable.
• BFOU Cable is slightly easier to install than RFOU Cable.
• BFOU Cable is not suitable for outdoor use, while RFOU Cable is.
• BFOU Cable is more expensive than RFOU Cable.

BFOU Cable vs RFOU Cable Cost Difference

The cost difference between BFOU (Bare Fiber Optic Unit) Cable and RFOU (Ruggedized Fiber Optic Unit) Cable depends on several factors, including the type of cable, the length of the cable, the number of connectors, and the type of connectors. Generally speaking, BFOU cables are cheaper than RFOU cables due to their simpler design and lack of ruggedized features.

However, the cost difference can be significant depending on the application. RFOU cables are more expensive because they are designed to withstand extreme temperatures, high pressure, and other environmental conditions that make them suitable for more demanding applications. In addition, RFOU cables often require more complex and expensive connectors, which also adds to the cost difference.

BFOU Cable vs RFOU Cable: Which Is Best?

My opinion is that RFOU cable is the best option. RFOU (Radial Fiber Optic Underground) cable has superior durability, as it is designed to withstand the harsh underground environments that often accompany telecommunications networks. The cable is more resistant to moisture, water, and other elements that can cause damage to typical fiber optic cables.

Additionally, RFOU cables offer more flexibility in terms of installation, as they can be installed in almost any type of terrain, including rocky and sandy soil. Finally, RFOU cables are more cost–effective than their BFOU (Buried Fiber Optic Underground) counterparts, making them a more attractive option for businesses looking to save on installation costs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, RFOU and BFOU are both reliable, high–speed cables with various features and benefits. When deciding which cable to purchase, it is important to consider factors such as cost, installation requirements, and the environment in which the cable will be used. RFOU cables are often the more cost–effective option and are more durable and flexible in terms of installation, making them the best choice for most applications.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I use RFOU cable?

RFOU cable is generally recommended for use in situations where the installation of a traditional buried fiber optic cable is not practical or feasible.

This may include situations where there are obstacles in the path of the cable, such as roads, buildings, or utility lines, or where the ground conditions are not suitable for traditional trenching and burying.

RFOU cable is also often preferred for installations where the cable needs to be installed quickly or with minimal disruption to the surrounding area.

When should I use BFOU cable?

BFOU cable is generally recommended for use in situations where the ground conditions are suitable for traditional trenching and burying and where the installation of an RFOU cable is not necessary.

This may include situations where the cable can be installed in a straight line with minimal obstacles, or where the cable does not need to be installed quickly or with minimal disruption to the surrounding area.

Is one type of cable better than the other?

Both RFOU and BFOU cables have their own advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice will depend on the specific installation requirements and conditions. In general, RFOU cable may be more suitable for installations where the cable needs to be installed quickly or where traditional trenching and burying is not feasible.

However, it may also be more expensive and may require more specialized equipment for installation. BFOU cable, on the other hand, may be more cost-effective and may be easier to install in certain situations, but may require more time and resources for installation.

Can RFOU and BFOU cable be used together in the same system?

Yes, it is possible to use RFOU and BFOU cable together in the same system. However, it is important to consider the potential impact on signal quality and integrity when mixing different types of cable. In general, it may be best to use the same type of cable throughout the system to ensure consistent performance.

Can RFOU and BFOU cable be used for data transmission?

Yes, both RFOU and BFOU cable can be used for data transmission over fiber optic cables. Both types of cable are designed to transmit data or voice signals over long distances with minimal signal loss or degradation. However, it is important to choose a cable that is rated for the appropriate data transmission speeds and that is designed for the specific data transmission standard being used (e.g. Ethernet, USB, HDMI, etc.).