Optical fibers used for lighting are similar to the fibers used in high-speed communication. The only difference is how the cable is optimized for light rather than data. The fibers consist of a core that transmits the light and an outer sheathing that traps the light inside the core of the fiber.
Side-emitting fiber optic lighting cables have a rough edge between the core and the sheathing to disperse the light out of the core along the length of the cable to create a consistent lighted look similar to neon light tubes.
Fiber optic cables can be made of glass, just like communications fibers, or plastic. If the fibers are glass, they are usually very small diameter and many are bundled together in one jacketed cable to provide enough light transmission.
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Multi-stranded fiber optic cable with a black sheath
Multiple strands of fiber in a black plastic coating which holds the bundle together and protects the fiber in arduous conditions. The fiber can be terminated with ferrules for use with end fittings. For starry effects the sheathing can be stripped back and the individual fibers fanned out to give small points of light. -
Multi-stranded fiber optic cable with a black sheath
Multiple strands of fiber in a black plastic coating which holds the bundle together and protects the fiber in arduous conditions. The fiber can be terminated with ferrules for use with end fittings. For starry effects, the sheathing can be stripped back and the individual fibers fanned out to give small points of light.
