When to Replace vs. Repair an ADSS Cable Span: Decision Criteria Guide

Not every damaged ADSS span needs replacement — but some do, and the decision to repair when replacement is warranted costs more in the long run. This guide provides objective criteria.

Decision Tree

1. Attenuation drift: If attenuation has increased >0.10 dB/km above the commissioning baseline, the span is degrading and should be replaced — not repaired.
2. Fiber breaks: If >20% of fibers are broken in a span, replace the entire span. Splice losses accumulate and power budget runs out.
3. Jacket damage: If tracking damage covers >30% of the span length, replace. Localized damage (<10%) can be repaired with a splice closure.
4. Age: If the cable is >20 years old and showing degradation, replacement is more cost-effective than repeated repairs.

Related Reading: OTDR fault location · Jacket damage guide · Cable slipping

Key Takeaways

• Attenuation drift >0.10 dB/km = replace the span.
• >20% fiber breaks = replace.
• Localized jacket damage <10% = repair. Widespread tracking >30% = replace.
• >20 years old + degradation = replace — not worth repeated repair costs.