Aerial fiber installation places optical cable on poles or other supports rather than underground or in conduit. That makes it quicker to deploy and easier to inspect, but the cable must withstand wind, ice, UV exposure, vibration and occasional mechanical abuse. This article explains the common aerial cable types, the hardware you'll actually use on poles and span ends, and the safety practices. Aerial fiber optic cables are commonly used in optical communications and are now so common that they can be seen on utility poles all around you. Generally speaking, they are usually made of heavy jackets and strong metal or aramid.