I finally had to pick a side on the whole fiber optic vs copper debate for a retrofit

Got a job last month on a 737 classic needing a full comms upgrade, the spec gave me a choice. I could run new copper bundles or switch the whole run to fiber. I went with fiber, spent two days learning the new crimp tool. It cut the wire weight by 60 pounds and testing passed first time. Anyone else made that jump and found the initial hassle worth it?

4 comments

4 Comments

kai_chen218h ago

Our shop's fiber kit is a Fluke. The test routine is slower than copper but you get zero false positives. Makes sign-off paperwork a breeze.

singh.harper20h ago

That 60 pound weight cut is a huge win, and I had the same experience learning the new crimp.

kimw5718h ago

Maybe it's just me but that crimp change felt like a total step back. The old way was way more solid in my hands, you know? The new one feels cheap and slips more often. I mean, I get they wanted to make it easier, but it just doesn't grip the same. Idk, maybe my technique is off but it was a downgrade for my workflow.

thomasgonzalez19h ago

Totally get it, @singh.harper. That kind of progress changes everything, makes the wall feel totally different.

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