Field optical cables are non-metallic optical cables specifically designed for rapid deployment or repeated retraction in field and complex environments. They feature light weight and easy portability; high tensile and compressive strength with a high strength-to-weight ratio; excellent flexibility and easy bending; resistance to oil, abrasion, and flammability; and suitability for a wide temperature range. They are applicable for rapid deployment or repeated retraction in military field communication systems; radar, aviation, and shipboard wiring; and demanding scenarios such as oil fields, mines, ports, live television broadcasting, and emergency communication line repairs.

Armored optical cables play a crucial role in long-distance telecommunication fiber optic lines and primary/secondary trunk transmission. However, the armored optical fibers commonly encountered by network management are mostly used to connect two fiber optic network devices within the same equipment room or building. These armored optical fibers are relatively short in length. Armored optical cables are a thicker type, generally adding one or more protective layers over the standard cable sheath, primarily to meet customer requirements such as rodent resistance and moisture protection.

In terms of weight, field optical cables need to be lightweight and individually portable; armored optical cables tend to be bulkier as mobility is not a primary consideration.

In terms of quality, the communication requirements for field optical cables are relatively lower. As long as short-distance battlefield communication can be achieved, it suffices. Armored optical cables, however, need to ensure accurate signal transmission.

Field optical cables are used for military wiring; field deployment; wiring in harsh environments; and temporary installations that may require frequent retraction and redeployment.

Armored optical cables are categorized into outdoor armored and flexible armored types. Outdoor armored cables are mainly used for primary and secondary trunk lines. The primary purpose of flexible armored cables is to address fiber optic issues for customers during the Fiber to the Home (FTTH) process, enhancing the cable's tensile, compressive, and bending resistance; preventing damage from sharp-toothed animals; improving wiring convenience; and reducing later maintenance costs.