How to Install Fiber Optical Digital Audio Cables

Fiber optic cables on a white background.
  • 1-3 hours
  • Intermediate
  • 25-1,250
What You'll Need
Optical audio cable
Source device
Receiving device
What You'll Need
Optical audio cable
Source device
Receiving device

Optical digital audio cables are becoming popular alternatives to traditional audio cables. Whereas traditional audio cables use wire to transmit electric signals, optical audio cables transmit light via fiber optic communications, making them immune to interference that traditional cables are vulnerable to.

In the past many people have opted to use traditional cables because of the high cost of fiber optical digital audio cables, in recent years these cables have become a simple, affordable alternative to traditional cables. Because of their affordability and easy installation, they are very desirable. Whether you have already purchased an optical digital audio cable and are looking for an installation guide, or are in the process of deciding whether or not to purchase one, the following guide will help you out.

Step 1 - Prepare

Check that the devices you wish to connect both accept optical audio cables. You're looking for connection ports that are square with rounded bottoms; they may be labeled "Optical" or, sometimes "Digital". Remove and save the plastic covers from the ends of your cable. You will need them when you are finished using your optical digital audio cables.

Step 2 - Make the First Connection

Connect one end of your cable to the port on your receiving device marked "Optical In." It may also be marked "Digital In." If you have plugged it in correctly, you will hear a click signifying that the cable is fastened securely.

Step 3 - Make the Second Connection

Connect the other end of your cable to the port on your source device marked "Optical Out." As with the port on the receiving device, it may also be marked "Digital In." As with the first port, you will hear a click if you have connected the cable correctly.

Step 4 - Confirm the Success of Your Installation

Turn on your devices, and test out the connection by sending some data from the source device to the receiving device.

If you have followed these steps correctly, your cable should now be installed. If, for some reason, you cannot transmit data between the two devices, check to see that you have installed any relevant software and that the devices are compatible. If it still does not work, try to connect two different devices with the cable. If that does not work, either, you may have a defective cable. Take it back to your place of purchase to see if an exchange or a return can be made.

Be sure to replace the plastic caps when you disconnect the cable, to prevent dust from degrading your cable. Keep in mind that if you need to bend your cable in order to connect the two devices, an optical digital cable will not work optimally. Optical cables work by sending pulses of light between two devices, and light cannot bend. Although some individuals report using bent optical digital audio cables with success, there is no guarantee that your cables will work while bent. Make sure that your cable is as straight as possible before deciding that it is defective.