Core, cladding, buffer, strengthener, and outer jacket are the components of a fiber-optic cable. You will also learn how different aspects of the product can affect budget and design. ■ The Five Key Parts of a Fiber Optic Cable A fiber optic cable. A fiber optic cable consists of five basic components: the core, the cladding, the coating, the strengthening fibers, and the cable jacket. This advanced cabling solution allows fast, secure data transfer and telecom over long distances.