The optical cable structure protects optical fibers from environmental damage. Many factors influence the design of fiber optic cables. An optical fiber cable is a complex structure designed to protect fragile glass fibers that transmit digital data using light signals. Understanding the components within a fiber optic cable enables. A fiber optic cable consists of five basic components: the core, the cladding, the coating, the strengthening fibers, and the cable jacket. In practical fibers, the cladding is usually coated with a layer of acrylate polymer or polyimide.