View Full Version : Plastic Fiber Optic Cable -- Looking for Source
JonnyMac
12-20-2011, 08:28 PM
I'm looking for a source of inexpensive plastic fiber optic cable, the kind typically used to make lighted lamps and ornaments. In my case, I will be use the cable, some LEDs, and a custom Propeller controller to light elements of a model of Los Angeles. Any recommendations are appreciated.
RobotWorkshop
12-20-2011, 08:31 PM
It looks like this place may have some:
http://www.fiberopticproducts.com/Archery.htm
http://www.fiberopticproducts.com/Sideglow.htm
This guy sells various sizes by the foot on ebay: http://www.ebay.com/sch/localphillyman/m.html?hash=item3f10f58d7e&item=270867467646&pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&_trksid=p4340.l2562
W9GFO
12-20-2011, 08:47 PM
http://thefiberopticstore.com/purchase/endglowfilament.htm
http://www.trinorthlighting.com/Store/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=80
(http://www.trinorthlighting.com/Store/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=80)
http://www.wiedamark.com/fiberopticendglow.aspx
(http://www.wiedamark.com/fiberopticendglow.aspx)http://www.tprlights.com/fibercable/
(http://www.tprlights.com/fibercable/)
http://www.alibaba.com/showroom/end-glow-fiber-optic.html
(http://www.alibaba.com/showroom/end-glow-fiber-optic.html)
This one (http://www.thefiberopticstore.com/purchase/endglowfilament.htm#full) is only $.04/ft... if you buy a full reel.
Loopy Byteloose
12-22-2011, 10:09 AM
I'm not clear on your intended end use, but if you want to go very generic -- nylon fishing line is sold by the mile very cheaply. It may not have the superior optical transmission properties of true fiber optic cable, but it does ape the effect.
W9GFO
12-22-2011, 02:23 PM
Here's someone that tried to make monofilament fishing line work in that manner.
http://www.cockeyed.com/incredible/fiber/fiber1.php
Loopy Byteloose
12-22-2011, 02:37 PM
LOL - not exactly sure where he went wrong, but God bless the internet for allowing him to share.
Ends are suppose to be cut, cut perpendicular, maybe polished, NOT melted.
ADDED thoughts.
1. Bundle together before cutting with a very sharp razor blade or such.
2. Polish the bundled cuts with either Dupont Polishing Compound or Dupont Rubbing Compound (available at automotive supply stores for making your car nice and shinny).
Polish ca be washed away with liquid dish soap and water.