Bending resistant fibre suits FTTH applications

Edited by the Engineeringtalk editorial team Dec 15, 2006

Fujikura Europe has launched its new range of cables using the innovative FutureGuide SR15 optical fibre

This breakthrough low bend radius technology makes these three cables ideally suited for FTTH installations.

Fujikura, renowned for its pioneering approach to technology, has developed these cables each with their own particular FTTH applications.

Magi-Tsuyo Cable - this is an ultra flexible patch cord cable designed with high durability to allow for extreme cable bend during installations.

Once a tight bend is released, it will return to its original condition without any deformation or marking on the sheath.

In addition to the flexibility of the cable, the fibre is coated in a specially developed material which wraps around the fibre to stop the cable from getting caught up and bent.

"This cable is ideally suited for the household environment", says Fujikura Product Manager, Grant Ogilvie.

"This cable is so durable and resistant to wear that it can withstand the rigors of a modern home".

"It is fibre for people not used to handling fibre, it can be bent, twisted and even tied in a figure of eight".

Indoor Cable - this is a low bend radius cable for up to 12 fibres, the shape (3 x 2mm) allows for the cable to be laid flat and sustain high compression forces.

"The key advantage of this figure of eight cable is its two strength members positioned either side of the fibre; it is this design feature that provides the additional protection to the fibre and allows a very small format", comments Ogilvie.

"Due to its small size it is designed to be routed in the house for FTTH installations".

"Typically we are talking about a 25m length of cable, being taken from the drop point and routed around the home".

"It is extremely tough and small in diameter so it can easily be pushed through existing duct space where there might be existing cables and it can withstand most domestic applications".

Ariel Drop Cable - this is a multi purpose cable designed for aerial and in house FTTH installation.

A two in one product, this cable is easier, faster and cheaper to install.

"Typically in Europe most of the cables are buried and, therefore, new installations of FTTH can result in digging up roads and pavements to provide access to subscribers - making it a very expensive exercise", says Ogilvie.

"However Fujikura's Aerial drop cable, which is used extensively in Japan, has proven to reduce costs and decrease the time taken to reach an office or dwelling".

"This multi purpose cable has a figure of eight format supported by a steel wire; the steel wire is for drop applications, but once the residence has been reached the supporting wire can be stripped back and secured to the external wall, allowing the excess cable to be fed through the wall and terminated inside the home".

"Once the steel wire is removed it is a very similar cable to our indoor cable, making it a perfect solution for both outdoor and indoor use", adds Ogilvie.