Gel filled multi loose tube cable in Figure 8 for aerial outdoor installation. Metallic messenger as strength member. PAYMA - 2ª Pl -. Commonly referred to as figure 8 cable, figure 8 fiber cable, figure 8 aerial cable, self-supporting figure 8 cable, or simply figure 8 optical cable, this ingenious structure combines optical fibers with an integrated messenger wire in a distinctive “8” cross-section. These are used to provide links to protocols such as FTTH, FDDI, 10 Gigabit Ethernet, ATM. The core is covered by water blocking tape and armored with steel tape.