rip cord

Of an optical cable, a parallel cord of strong yarn that is situated under the jacket(s) of the cable for the purpose of facilitating jacket removal preparatory to splicing or breaking out. Note: The rip cord is exposed by carefully removing or severing a portion of the jacket near the end of the cable. It is then grasped with the fingers, or usually, with a tool such as a pair of pliers, and pulled to sever the jacket for the remainder of the desired distance. [After FAA]