HFC Foundations & Hardline Craft
Coring, Splicing & Cut-Outs
Hardline cut-out rules, minimum section lengths, expansion loops, torque from the AOI moto card, time-stamped documentation, and splice QA — integrated with coring and defect drills from evolution field standards.
Est. 55 minutes · 2 pages · 12 quiz questions
Objectives
- Execute coring and connector prep as one cut-out-ready workflow
- Apply minimum 3 ft cut-out sections with expansion loops per evolution standard
- Document cut-outs with time-stamped before/after photos and map/active labels
- Torque seizure, module, and lid hardware to AOI moto card values
- Recognize when retaining bolts in seizure require full cut-out rather than inline repair
- Reject prep defects before close using the same gate as trunk splicing QA
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Cut-Outs, Lengths & Documentation
When Cut-Outs Are Mandatory
Evolution and high-split work often requires removing legacy extensions, seized hardware, or amp inserts that cannot be upgraded in place. Mini bridger models called out as not upgradable, units with retaining bolts in the seizure mechanism, and all extensions in the job scope must be cut out — not patched around.
Any cable removed in a cut-out must be replaced in sections no shorter than three feet, with proper expansion loops so thermal movement does not stress pin connectors. Short stubs invite pull tension failures and micro-reflections at the splice.
All cut-outs require before and after photos with visible timestamps — especially around node optical work. Check node light levels before and after cut-out; acceptable receive range is typically −8 to −19 dBm per job optical standard.
Cut-out field gate
Coring step — foundation of every splice in a cut-out
Accurate field sequence — square cut → seat → core to stop → inspect. Pause and step through each gate.
Confirm cable size from jacket print or caliper. Square-cut with hardline cutters so the end face is round and perpendicular — oval or angled faces side-load the coring tool.
Egg-shaped ends get cut again. Do not force a tool onto a crushed face.