Fiber Optics

[jwfoise]

Does anyone out there have experience using fiber optics, particularly to put lights on a structure? I have a Walthers refinery that I've assembled and had the idea of using fiber optics to simulate how those types of structures always seem covered with lights (the Christmas tree effect). At the light source (bulb) end, do the fibers have to be aligned or attached to the bulb or just pointed at it? Can you paint the outside of the fibers (except the ends) to hide them? Are there good and cheap sources of equipment? I would love thoughts, pitfalls, suggestions, experiences.

[Anonymous]

I,ve done a little bit with fiber optics in the past. Yes, you can paint it. It is pretty flexible and not difficult to place and work with. CA holds it well. No, it does not have to be attached to the light source, just pointed toward, but the closer you can place the ends, the better. I usually bundle it up at the light source and work away from there. Sorry, can't tell you a cheep place to get it, I got mine from a former employer. Hope I helped a bit.............Jamie

[BruceJob]

Jon...

I've been looking at fiber optics lately myself for a project. While searching for a source for optical fiber, I came across a product you might be able to adapt for your use. Edmund Scientific sells a gizmo that looks like a flashlight with a bundle of fibers atttached. Cut and paste this url to your browser's address box:

http://www.scientificsonline.com/ec/Products/Display.cfm?CategoryID=337142

For about ten bucks including shipping and batteries it might be worth buying one just to experiment with.

Good luck with your project.

Bruce J.

[Anonymous]

I experimented with them for a search light signal on a signal bridge. I had read that you can take a lighted match. hold it close to the end of the fiber, and you will get a swelling effect on the fiber, which is great to fit into the head of a signal and it also expands the lighted surface. If your not careful though, you will melt the ends, so do it quickly. You may have to test a few ends to get the effect you want.

I also painted black paint around the "dot" that shows light so the light was more pronounced. Someone told you that a fiber closer to the light source is better, and they're right..if you want brightness. But for dim lights, you don't have to have the light source too close. Some hobby stores sell fibers as well as some art stores and craft stores like Michaels. Good luck

[Anonymous]

I got a bunch of small flashlights with about 30 fiber optic rods coming out the end. They were for halloween and on clearance at 4 for a buck, then a few days later i got the rest at a dime each. This was from Big Lots, a discount/clearance store. They turn up in lots of places pretty cheap. They are fun and easy to work with and have lots of model RRing applications. curt

[Anonymous]

I used the fibers and 12 volt light from a waste Christmas tree for a scene a few years ago. Big Lots has other FO gadgets.
I tried to use FO running lights on a caboose. It has to be very dark for anyone to see them. The fibers and gaps are very lossy, the light is weak at best.

[GoleyC]

Try these links for fiber optic cable

http://www.thelightconnection.com/index.cfm
http://www4.thomasregister.com/olc/masterwireandcable/fiberacc.htm