Monday, May 18, 2026

Elevator Traveling Cable Fiber Optic (4FO)

Modern elevators require more than just basic control and power. Today’s smart lifts need high-speed internet, 4K/8K video streaming, IP cameras, Wi-Fi access points, and real-time building management data – all while moving continuously inside a steel shaft filled with electromagnetic interference.

The Elevator Traveling Cable Fiber Optic is an all-in-one solution that combines three key technologies in a single flat traveling cable. This eliminates the need for multiple separate cables and ensures reliable, future-proof performance.


What Is the Elevator Traveling Cable Fiber Optic?

Elevator Traveling Cable Fiber Optic (4FO)


This specialized flat elevator cable integrates three completely different technologies into one durable, flexible jacket:

ComponentSpecificationFunction
Power cores3 × 1.5 mm² (Class 5 flexible copper)Power transmission for car lighting, fans, and auxiliary systems
Data (Copper)2 x CAT6 S/FTP (4x2xAWG26 each)Gigabit Ethernet for IP cameras, Wi‑Fi, VoIP intercoms
Data (Fiber)4 fiber optic cores (glass reinforced)High-bandwidth, EMI‑immune transmission for video and critical data

This triple-cable design enables simultaneous, uninterrupted transmission of:

  • Mechanical control signals

  • IP‑based network data (over CAT6)

  • High‑bandwidth multimedia / video broadcasts (over fiber)


Why Choose a Hybrid Fiber + CAT6 + Power Cable?

Running separate cables for power, Ethernet, and fiber is expensive, time‑consuming, and increases the risk of tangling in the elevator shaft. The all‑in‑one hybrid cable offers clear advantages:

BenefitExplanation
Space savingOne flat cable replaces three or more round cables
Simplified installationSingle pull, one set of hangers, less labor
EMI immunity (fiber)Fiber cores are 100% resistant to electromagnetic interference from motors and drives
Redundant data pathsFiber + CAT6 provide backup or separate channels for security vs. passenger use
Future‑proofFiber supports bandwidth far beyond current needs (4K/8K, IoT, 5G backhaul)

Technical Specifications (Quick Reference)

Overall Cable Type

Triple elevator cable – Power + Ethernet LAN + Optical data transmission

Power Cores (3 × 1.5 mm²)

ParameterValue
ConductorBare copper, flexible (Class 5)
Cross section3 × 1.5 mm²
InsulationPVC
Rated voltage300/500 V

Data – CAT6 (2 units)

ParameterValue
Structure2 units of 4×2×AWG26
ShieldingS/FTP (individual foil + overall braid)
PerformanceGigabit Ethernet (1000BASE‑T)

Data – Fiber Optic (4 cores)

ParameterValue
Fiber count4 fibers
Strength memberGlass yarn (reinforced)
EMI resistance100% immune
Unit sheathPE (Polyethylene)

Standards Compliance

  • EN 50214 – Flat polyvinyl chloride sheathed flexible cables for lifts


Applications – Designed for Advanced Elevator Systems

The Elevator Cable Fiber Optic is ideal for:

  • Smart elevators requiring redundant data paths (Fiber + LAN for failover or separate networks)

  • High‑resolution digital signage and advertising displays inside the car (fiber handles 4K/8K video)

  • IP security cameras and Wi‑Fi access points (CAT6 provides reliable, low‑latency Ethernet)

  • Building Management System (BMS) integration – Real‑time elevator status, maintenance alerts, passenger counters

  • Emergency communication systems with video calling

Because the fiber cores are 100% immune to EMI, you can run this cable right next to motor power lines without any signal degradation – a critical advantage in elevator shafts.


Installation Tips for Hybrid Fiber + CAT6 + Power Cable

  1. Use flat cable hangers – Ensure the hanger slot width is at least 98 mm. The hybrid cable may be slightly thicker than standard flat cables.

  2. Respect minimum bending radius – Fiber requires a larger bend radius than copper (typically 10× cable thickness for dynamic use). Do not kink.

  3. Terminate fiber properly – Use certified elevator‑rated fiber connectors (e.g., LC, SC) or pre‑terminated pigtails. Field termination requires special tools.

  4. Ground CAT6 shielding correctly – Ground the S/FTP braid at one end only (typically the controller side) to avoid ground loops.

  5. Secure both ends – One anchor on the car side, one on the shaft side, with a service loop for future maintenance.

  6. Test before final installation – Verify fiber continuity and CAT6 link speed (Gigabit) before closing the shaft.


Comparison: Hybrid vs. Separate Cables

FeatureSeparate CablesHybrid Fiber + CAT6 + Power
Number of cable pulls3 or more1
Hangers requiredMultiple sets1 set
Shaft space usageHigh (multiple round cables)Low (single flat cable)
EMI risk on dataHigh (copper alone)Zero on fiber, shielded on CAT6
Future bandwidthLimited by copperFiber supports 100 Gbps+
CostLower cable cost but higher laborHigher cable cost, lower labor

For new installations or major modernizations, the hybrid cable almost always saves total project cost when labor and shaft space are factored in.


Final Verdict

The Elevator Traveling Cable Fiber Optic (3×1.5 mm² power + 2xCAT6 + 4‑core fiber) is the ultimate solution for modern, data‑intensive lift systems. It combines reliability, speed, and EMI immunity in a single flat, flexible cable.

Whether you are installing a new smart elevator or upgrading an existing one, this hybrid cable eliminates the complexity of multiple runs and prepares your system for decades of bandwidth growth.

Always order from a reputable manufacturer who can provide EN 50214 certification and full test reports for both copper and fiber elements.


Need a custom hybrid cable for your elevator project? Contact with MKS KABLO - Elevator Cable Systems

Source: https://mkskablo.com/elevator-cable/elevator-traveling-cable-fiber-optic/