The Book of Next Gen Networks

The eagerly awaited
follow-up to ADC’s
The Book on FTTX
The Book on Next Gen Networks

The essential information you need to know when deploying FTTX, from the
Central Office to the Outside Plant to the Customer Premises
The Book on
ADC’s previous book, The Book on FTTX has served as a “how-to” guide
for thousands of service providers looking for the keys to success when
deploying FTTX. This long-awaited follow-up addresses the next
generation issues related to your next generation network.
Specific topics include:

• The elements of fiber cable management
• Effective integration of reduced bend radius fiber
• Extreme-environment performance considerations for FTTX splitter modules
• The economics of FTTN vs. FTTX
• Innovative installation techniques for fiber drop terminals
• Multiple solutions for connecting multiple dwelling units (MDUs)
• Properly training next-generation technicians on next-generation products The essential information you need to know
when deploying FTTX, from the central office to
Regardless of where you are at in the deployment process, whether still the outside plant to the customer premises
evaluating or nearing completion, The Book on Next Gen Networks
is a valuable compilation that has something for everyone.
$29.95 (Canada: $39.95)
Foreword by Jason Meyers

104918 1/08 Original © 2008 ADC Telecommunications, Inc. All Rights Reserved Managing Director, Penton Custom Media
Penton Media is the publisher of Telephony Magazine
ii The Book on Next Generation Networks
www.adc.com
The Book on Next Generation Networks iii
Foreword
The Problem with Innovation
By Jason Meyers, Managing Director, Penton Custom Media

The above is a title most people probably would not expect to see on a
foreword to a book about next generation networks. But there is a reason
behind it and a point to it, both of which I will get to in a moment.
First, though, what is that problem? What could be problematic about

innovation—in particular, about the network technology innovation that
drives communication networks into the next generation, driven by the
need and demand for advanced services and increasingly ubiquitous and
continuous and instantaneous communications capabilities?
The problem can be summed up in two words: expectation and execution.
Innovation creates expectation in droves. Industries like telecom live and

die by the expectation that is created by innovation. Companies get put
on the map because of it. Whole market sectors are created around that
innovation and the accompanying marketing buzz it generates. It’s electric.
Industry associations and alliances are formed around those expectations.
The media thrives on the expectation and multiplies it. (Some might say it’s
the media’s fault.) Promises are made.
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iv Foreword
Then comes the execution—or lack of it. This is where the rubber hits the
road (or skids off into the ditch). It’s one thing to make promises, to build up
expectations. It’s another to deliver on the expectations created, regardless
of how technologically promising the innovation may be. Those markets
and buzz created by the expectation? Without proper execution, they are
more than likely to fizzle.
So the problem with innovation, quite simply, is one of follow-through. The

problem is an inadequate attention to the detail required to turn innovation
into a market.
So why did I choose this phrase as a title to the foreword of The Book on
Next Gen Networks? Because I contend that this book goes a long way
toward solving the problem. This is a book about execution—namely, the
execution required to leverage next generation network innovation and use
it to build markets.
How does one volume accomplish that which whole market sectors have
at times tried and failed to accomplish? By concentrating on the details.
This book doesn’t speak in broad strokes about what various technologies
can potentially accomplish, the services they can potentially enable or how
competitively important it is to deploy those technologies in your networks.
Instead, this book is a practical exploration and application of specifics.
The Book on Next Gen Networks goes deep, into the central office, to the
distribution hub, the access network and into the customer premises. It
explores, for example, why a proper fiber cable management system is so
critical to network performance—not only right now, but also in the not-
so-distant future, when today’s will be carrying applications no one has
yet thought of, and expanding because of it. Or where (and why) splitters
should be deployed in a PON environment, and how a decision like that can
help a network accommodate new services.
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The Book on Next Generation Networks v
This book analyzes the performance and cost issues that can occur if the
wrong moves are made, and the benefits that can be realized by making
the right ones. To that end, this is a book about preparing for the future.
In fact, it attempts—as much as is possible in this ever-adapting network
environment—to actually predict the future: What could the long-term
consequences of a deployment decision or process be? How will the role of
the network technicians who deploy the networks evolve, and what training
will be required of them? How will new construction and the changing
architecture of buildings impact how FTTP will be deployed?
The Book on Next Gen Networks is conceived and written to help those
who consume it bridge the gap between expectation and execution. Read
it, apply it, repeat it. Industry associations and alliances and alliances are
formed around that expectation. It will help you deliver on the promise
of innovation.
Enjoy!
www.adc.com
vi The Book on Next Generation Networks
www.adc.com
The Book on Next Generation Networks vii
Table of Contents
Introduction: The Motivation for GPON Migration............................................ 3

Central Office
Chapter 1 The Elements of Fiber Cable Management.................................. 11
Chapter 2 Effective Integration of Reduced Bend Radius Fiber
into the Network......................................................................... 19
Chapter 3 Incorporating Passive CWDM Technology vs. Deploying
Additional Optical Fiber............................................................... 25
Chapter 4 Adding New Video Services Warrants New Central
Office Considerations.................................................................. 31
Distribution
Chapter 5 It’s Happening in the Hub............................................................ 39
Chapter 6 Extreme-Environment Performance Considerations
for FTTX Splitter Modules............................................................ 51
Chapter 7 Plug and Play Splitter Architectures Drive Operational Savings..... 61
Chapter 8 The Economics of FTTN vs. FTTP.................................................. 65
Chapter 9 Resectionalizing the Distribution Area........................................... 71
Access
Chapter 10 Creating a Cost-Effective Plug and Play FTTX Architecture........... 79
Chapter 11 Innovative Installation Techniques for Fiber Drop Terminals.......... 83
Chapter 12 Above vs. Below Ground Drop Splicing: Considerations
for Drop Cable Connections in the FTTX Network....................... 89
Chapter 13 Outside Plant Connections You Can Rely On............................... 93
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viii Table of Contents
Customer Premises
Chapter 14 Multiple Solutions for Connecting Multiple
Dwelling Units (MDUs)............................................................... 107
Chapter 15 Deploying Reduced Bend Radius Fiber in MDU Environments... 119
The Technician
Chapter 16 Properly Training Next-Generation Technicians

on Next-Generation Products..................................................... 127
Chapter 17 The Technician‘s Perspective
on Reduced Bend Radius Fiber.................................................. 131
Glossary .................................................................................................. 137
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The Book on Next Generation Networks
Introduction
2 The Book on Next Generation Networks
www.adc.com
The Book on Next Generation Networks 3
Introduction
The Motivation for GPON Migration
By December 2007, approximately eight million homes had been passed

with fiber for Fiber-to-the-Home (FTTH) or Fiber-to-the-Premises (FTTP)
applications. Included in these numbers are an astonishing five hundred
communities that have chosen fiber as a means of delivering broadband
applications to homes and businesses. Of these numbers, it is estimated
that almost half, or around 3.5-million of these homes and businesses are
connected using Broadband Passive Optical Networking (BPON), Ethernet
Passive Optical Networking (EPON) or Ethernet-in-the-First-Mile (EFM)1.
Predicting the telecom future is never easy—and it follows that building

an access network that is “future-proofed” against rising bandwidth
demand and next-generation technologies is a major challenge for today’s
service providers. But that doesn’t mean decisions have to be based on
a coin flip either. There are many practical considerations that can be
examined when selecting an FTTP infrastructure that will not only meet
current demand, but also provide the flexibility for a smooth migration to
next-generation demands.
This is particularly true of the passive optical network (PON) portion of

the network. A close look at several practical considerations, based on
informed decision making, will provide a firm foundation for designing
a network that can cost-effectively transition between legacy and future
access technologies. Our own telecommunication history provides many
troubling examples of networks that were built without giving thought
to future innovation. Building telephone networks with copper, our
predecessors could not have predicted today’s broadband revolution—even
though we seem to have made the most of this legacy infrastructure with
xDSL technologies.
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4 Introduction
However, through the unpredictable performance of xDSL and the overall

condition of the legacy copper network—not to mention some very costly
lessons learned—service providers have realized the importance of network
flexibility. FTTP offers service providers a “clean slate” for deploying today’s
new services to their bandwidth-hungry subscribers—and it all begins with
designing the proper PON architecture.
For the access protocols and the movement to Gigabit PON (GPON)
migration, some additional concepts may need to be considered:
• GPON is the next generation of PON electronics currently being

introduced to the marketplace.
•G
PON will NOT be the final technology deployed.
• The network design should accommodate flexibility for the

current migration and beyond.
• In theory, the passive connectivity infrastructure must be

agnostic to the service delivery technology.
GPON is making it easier for PON networks to move to an all-IP format

where the external interfaces to the core are moving to an all Gigabit
Ethernet network creating a movement away from the traditional ATM
transport to a “pure” IP transport. GPON is IP-centric while allowing the
traditional services of voice and video, yet acknowledges the strengths
of the service provider to differentiate themselves on quality of service
(QoS) issues.
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GPON continues to have the long reach that effectively eliminates active
components in the access network with little or no significant changes to
the physical architecture that has already been built for BPON and EPON.
Architecture designs should account for a smooth transition between
technologies by accommodating practical considerations for future
architectures. We do not have a true crystal ball as to what these technologies
will become. If we did, we would simply build for the future. However, isn’t
this exactly what we should be doing—building for the future?
Where’s the motivation?

As predicted, GPON, a culmination of the best in BPON and EPON, is poised
to dominate the access market by offering a much-needed bandwidth boost.
We can all agree that eventually everything—voice, video, and data—will
be moving to IP and the quadruple-play applications, including network
appliances, security, video surveillance, etc. The advantages of GPON are a
key driver for gaining the commitment of the large-volume carriers toward
the GPON standard.
GPON is emerging on queue with higher split ratios that can deal with
the challenges of delivering high-speed, high-bandwidth packaged services
to business and residential customers. This is putting pressure on service
providers to make decisions for ramping up their networks for GPON from
the central office (CO) to the outside plant (OSP).
Ensuring FTTP networks can easily migrate to GPON promises to pay huge
dividends to service providers in the coming years. As GPON develops
as the standard of choice for FTTP networks, both cost reductions and
interoperability will be accelerated. Those providers who make informed
choices in deploying flexible, interoperable, reconfigurable networks will
reap substantial benefits in the move to GPON and beyond. They will be
able to quickly offer new and improved services as they evolve, without the
need for major network overhauls.
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6 Introduction
Standards bodies
If service providers aren’t already convinced by GPON’s ability to provide
future enhanced services, maximize interoperability, utilize enhancement
bands, and provide increased capacity with the promise of higher split
ratios, the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) provides further
motivation. The ITU points out that we can expect a significant increase in
demand for dedicated Gigabit Ethernet (GigE) and 10GigE services to both
businesses and residential customers.
This means every service provider must decide how to best integrate all
types of services onto a single backhaul fiber network. A smooth and easy
migration capability to GPON is the most viable solution. GPON enables
PON networks to easily move to an all-IP format while external interfaces to
the core move to an all-gigabit ethernet format—a movement away from
the traditional ATM transport to pure IP transport.
The ITU’s ratification of the GPON standard in 2003 has also helped put
electronics vendors on the same page in terms of getting behind one
standard. This standard will enable the major cost challenges associated with
optical network terminals (ONTs) at the customer premise to be addressed
and, in time, will bring those costs down significantly.
GPON combines the best of BPON’s quality-of-service attributes with the

best of EPON’s ability to transport and interface on an all-IP network. It
also addresses the higher application bandwidth needs by providing
2.4 Gbits/sec downstream and 1.2 Gbits/sec upstream.
The transition to GPON

Making the move from BPON or EPON to GPON involves three key
architectural components. Addressing the fiber’s loss characteristics in
terms of spectral attenuation, using the appropriate class of optics, and
considering the advantages offered by greater split ratio capability will all
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affect the networks migration to GPON. Each of these considerations will

be addressed in greater detail within this book.
Connectorization also plays a role in creating a migration-ready FTTP

network, particularly when considering the single fiber requirements of
next-generation video applications in GPON architectures. The use of APC
connectors that offer the lowest return loss characteristics of all current
connectors will optimize high bandwidth and allow for longer reach.
Splitter configuration in the optical distribution portion of the network—

between customers and the CO—has been a hot topic over the last few
years. We believe a centralized splitter approach offers the best flexibility
advantages. It maximizes the efficiency of OLT PON ports, and unlike the
cascaded approach, does not risk stranding unused ports in areas of low
take rates. There will also be further advantages when it comes to testing
and troubleshooting the network.
With the GPON standard already revolving around centralized 1x32 splitter
architectures in the OSP, GPON’s promise of a 1x64 splitter ratio offers
even more incentive to service providers by doubling the number of homes
serviced from a single splitter.
Moving to the CO, flexibility becomes the pathway to easy migration

capability. A network must always be built as a flexible long-term entity
that adapts to inevitable changes in both equipment and technology. A
cross-connect network offers excellent flexibility for configuration points
and should include high-quality APC connectors for handling the higher
power necessary for any analog video application.
Cable management in the CO is also an issue worth consideration. In fact,

the considerations for GPON within the CO can be summed up in just three
words—flexibility, quality, and protection.
www.adc.com
8 Introduction
A final word
We’ve covered a lot of ground in a short time, but these and other topics
are covered in greater detail as you read through this book. Suffice it to
say that network architects owe it to themselves to carefully plan ahead to
avoid having to re-build the network to accommodate each new application
or technology.
Summing it all up, the inevitable need to migrate to GPON is already upon
us, and the future generations of PON are already on the drawing board.
Making informed network decisions today will not only make a migration
process less painful, but it is also good business sense. GPON not only
supports TDM voice today, it has a true migration platform to an all-IP
network. But most importantly, it guarantees that existing architectures will
migrate to future technologies without requiring forklift upgrades.
I hope you’ll see this latest edition of The Book on Next Generation
Networks as a tool for helping you make good decisions for upgrading
your access network. It represents the experience and know-how of many
fine architects, planners, and design technicians. I wish you the best of luck
in meeting the unique challenges of your network and hope you’ll consider
our ADC team as you work towards making your network plans a reality.
Enjoy!
Patrick J. Sims, RCDD

Principal Systems Engineer, ADC
patrick.sims@adc.com
1. Source: RVA LLC, Market Research & Consulting, “Fiber to the Home: Advanced
Broadband 2007”
www.adc.com
Central Office
www.adc.com
Chapter 1
The Elements of Cable Management
As service providers continue upgrading their networks to transport

high-bandwidth broadband services, an increase in fiber usage is essential
to meet both bandwidth and cost requirements. But just deploying this ad-
ditional fiber is not enough—a successful, well-built network must also be
based on a strong fiber cable management system.
Proper fiber management has a direct impact on the network’s reliabil-

ity, performance, and cost. Additionally, it affects network maintenance,
operations, expansion, restoration, and the rapid implementation of new
services. A strong fiber cable management system provides bend radius
protection, cable routing paths, cable accessibility, and physical protection
of the fiber network. Executing these concepts correctly will enable the
network to realize its full competitive potential.
Introduction
With demand steadily increasing for broadband services that will include
several bandwidth-hungry technologies like high-definition television
(HDTV) and higher Internet speeds for handling larger file sharing re-
quirements, fiber is being pushed closer and closer to the customer
premises. This, in turn, creates a need for both additional fiber in the
central office /data center and the active equipment that must be managed
to accommodate future network growth.
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12 Central Office
Any new broadband network infrastructure must have the inherent

capability to easily migrate to the next generation of technologies and
services. This is a key consideration for service providers beginning to
deploy triple-play broadband services—whether it’s from a multiple
service operator (MSO) headend, a central office (CO), or wireless mobile
switching center (MSC). As the amount of fiber dramatically increases,
the importance of properly managing the fiber cables becomes a more cru-
cial issue.
The manner in which fiber cables are connected, terminated, routed, spliced,
stored, and handled will directly and substantially impact the network’s per-
formance and, more importantly, its profitability. New technologies and
products have been developed in the last few years to improve bend radius
protection, cable routing paths, accessibility, and physical protection.
Bend radius protection

There are two types of bends in fiber—microbends and macrobends—that
can affect the fiber network’s long-term reliability and performance.
The microbend is a small, microscopic bend that may be caused by the

cabling process itself, packaging, installation, or mechanical stress due to
water in the cable during repeated freeze and thaw cycles. External forc-
es are also a source of microbends. An external force deforms the cabled
jacket surrounding the fiber, but causes only a small bend in the fiber. A
microbend typically changes the path that propagating modes take, result-
ing in loss from increased attenuation as low-order modes become coupled
with high-order modes that are naturally lossy.
A macrobend is a larger cable bend that can be seen with the unaided eye
and is often reversible. As the macrobend occurs, the radius can become
too small and allow light to escape the core and enter the cladding. The
result is insertion loss at best and, in worse cases, the signal is decreased
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or completely lost. Both microbends and macrobends can, however, be re-

duced and even prevented through proper fiber handling and routing.
The minimum bend radius will vary depending on the specific fiber cable.
However, in general, the minimum bend radius of a fiber should not be less
than ten times its outer diameter. Thus, a 3 mm cable should not have any
bends less than 30 mm in radius. Telcordia recommends a minimum 38 mm
bend radius for 3 mm patch cords. Also, if a tensile load is applied to a fiber
cable, such as the weight of a cable in a long vertical run or a cable pulled
tightly between two points, the minimum bend radius is increased due to
the added stress.
The advent of bend insensitive or reduced bend radius fiber is an example

of how technology has addressed the bend radius issue. Whereas the mini-
mum bend radius should not be less than ten times the outer diameter
of the fiber cable in typical fiber, reduced bend radius fiber provides more
leeway. However, service providers must understand that these new fibers
do not diminish the need for solid fiber cable management. On the con-
trary, the increase in the sheer number of fibers being added to the system
to accommodate broadband upgrades makes bend radius protection as
important as ever.
As fibers are added on top of installed fibers, macrobends can be induced

on the installed fibers if they are routed over an unprotected bend. A fiber
that had been working fine for many years can suddenly have an increased
level of attenuation, as well as a potentially shorter service life. The impor-
tance of bend radius protection is critical to avoid operational problems in
the network.
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14 Central Office
Cable routing paths

The second element of fiber cable management is cable routing paths and
is related to bend radius protection. Improper routing of fibers by techni-
cians is one of the major causes of bend radius violations. Wherever fiber
is used, routing paths must be clearly defined and easy to follow—to the
point where the technician has no other option than to route the cables
properly. Leaving cable routing to the technician’s imagination leads to an
inconsistently routed, difficult-to-manage fiber network.
The quality of the cable routing paths, particularly within a fiber distribution
frame system, can be the difference between congested chaos and neatly
placed, easily accessible patch cords. It’s often said that the best teacher
in fiber routing techniques is the first technician to route it properly. Con-
versely, the worst teacher is the first to use improper techniques, since sub-
sequent technicians are likely to follow his lead.
Well-defined routing paths, therefore, reduce technician training time, in-

crease the uniformity of the work done, and ensure and maintain bend
radius requirements at all points, thus improving overall network reliability.
It is important to note that, again, the use of bend insensitive fiber does not
diminish the need for clear cable routing paths—there are benefits that go
beyond bend radius protection.
Having defined routing paths makes accessing individual fibers easier,

quicker, and safer—reducing the time required for reconfigurations. Fi-
ber twists are reduced to make tracing a particular fiber for rerouting
much easier. Even with new technologies, such as the use of LEDs at both
ends of patch cords for easy identification, well-defined cable routing
paths still greatly reduce the time required to route and reroute patch
cords. All of this directly affects network operating costs and the time re-
quired to turn up or restore service.
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Cable access
Cable access is the third element to good fiber cable management and
refers to the accessibility of the installed fibers. As the number of fibers
increases dramatically in both the distribution frame and the active equip-
ment, cable access becomes an increasingly important issue for broadband
service providers. In the past, an active equipment rack might have had
about 50 fibers exiting, and managing those fibers was much less of an is-
sue. But as that same rack is fitted for next generation broadband services,
there may be up to 500 fibers involved, making proper management and
accessibility a vitally important matter.
With huge amounts of data—as well as revenue—moving across those fi-

bers, the ability for technicians to have quick and easy access is critical.
When there are service level agreements in place, particularly for customers
with high priority traffic, the last thing any service provider wants is service
interruptions caused by mishandling one fiber to gain access to another.
As previously mentioned, there are patch cords designed today with LEDs at
both ends to help technicians identify particular cable runs with no chance
of error. These innovations can be implemented into a good cable man-
agement system to help minimize problems caused by disconnecting the
wrong patch cord. There are many other tools and techniques for ensuring
that every fiber can be installed or removed without bending or disturbing
an adjacent fiber.
The accessibility of the fibers in the fiber cable management system can
mean the difference between a network reconfiguration time of 20
minutes per fiber and one of over 90 minutes per fiber. Since accessibility
is most critical during network reconfiguration operations, proper cable ac-
cess directly impacts operational costs and network reliability.
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16 Central Office
Physical fiber protection

The last element of a fiber cable management system addresses the physi-
cal protection of the installed fibers. Every fiber throughout the network
must be protected against accidental damage by technicians or equipment.
Fibers traversing from one piece of equipment to another must be routed
with physical protection in mind, such as using raceway systems that pro-
tect from outside disturbances.
Without proper physical protection, fibers are susceptible to damage that

can critically affect network reliability. The fiber cable management system
should always include attention to ensuring every fiber is protected from
physical damage.
A final word—planning
Finally, since many service providers are in the process—or soon will be—of
upgrading networks for delivering high-bandwidth broadband services, it
is important to stress the need for planning in terms of cable management.
Today’s network is a living and growing entity—and what is enough today
will almost certainly be too little tomorrow. With that in mind, future-proof-
ing the network wherever possible should be a major consideration—and
fiber cable management is no different.
For example, the current upgrades to broadband service delivery taking

place in COs, MSOs, or MSCs require more fiber deployment. Four- and
six-inch fiber raceway systems are already becoming inadequate to properly
manage these larger amounts of fiber. Service providers must plan ahead
for a centralized, high-density fiber distribution frame lineup using 24-inch
raceways that can accommodate not only today’s fiber requirements, but
also those expected in the future.
Although installing a 24-inch raceway system is more expensive today, hav-

ing to go back in and retrofit the system in a few years represents a much
higher cost and significant risk to the fiber. Ignoring future growth, particu-
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larly in terms of fiber, will result in higher long-term operational costs result-
ing from poor network performance or a requirement to retrofit products
that can no longer accommodate network demand.
Another consideration in planning for good fiber cable management con-

cerns the active equipment rack. Most manufacturers have traditionally
overlooked the need for providing cable management within their equip-
ment. Before purchasing, service providers should insist that cable manage-
ment is included within every piece of active equipment to ensure their
investment will operate at peak efficiency over time.
All four elements of a fiber cable management system—bend radius protec-

tion, cable routing paths, cable access, and physical protection—strengthen
the network’s reliability and functionality while lowering operational costs
and ensuring smooth upgrades when necessary.
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Chapter 2
Effective Integration of Reduced Bend Radius Fiber into

the Network
Introduction
Bending of singlemode fiber has everyone talking these days. The idea
that you can bend a fiber around a pencil without a dramatic increase
in attenuation is a concept that has everyone considering new fiber
applications and design possibilities.
Today, industry standards for traditional singlemode fiber typically specify

a minimum bend radius of ten times the outside diameter of the jacketed
cable or 1.5-inches (38 mm), whichever is greater. This new breed of flex-
ible singlemode optical fiber has the potential to significantly reduce these
minimum bend radius requirements to values as low as 0.6-inches (15 mm),
depending on the cable configuration, without increasing attenuation.
There are many names for optical fiber that can endure a tighter bend
radius —bend insensitive, bend resistant and bend optimized are sever-
al that come to mind. However, some of these terms can be somewhat
misleading. Designers and installers may believe reduced bend radius
optical fiber is impervious to all the forces that can increase attenuation
and cause failure on an optical fiber link. Staff and contract technicians can
make false assumptions on its durability and performance capabilities as
well. Such beliefs can have a serious impact on network performance.
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20 Central Office
For purposes of accuracy, ADC uses the term “reduced bend radius,” be-
cause this title best describes what the product actually delivers. As with
any optical fiber, attention must be paid to how the cable is deployed
and handled throughout the lifetime of the network, in order to ensure
optimal performance.
What is reduced bend radius optical fiber?

As mentioned above, reduced bend radius fiber is able to withstand tight-
er bends within frames, panels, and pathways. To understand how this is
achieved, it is important to understand that all fiber types rely on principles
of Total Internal Reflection, which allows light signal to travel from one
end of the fiber to another (see Figure 1). By improving the bend radius
of optical fiber, light entering the core is effectively reflected by the clad-
ding back into the core. Instead of using a matched clad profile, some con-
structions of reduced bend radius optical fiber use a depressed clad profile
with a lower index of refraction than the core, causing light to stay within
this core.
Refracted
Cladding
n1
n2 Core
Ø
Reflected
Figure 1
Principle of Total Internal Reflection for Optical Fibers
Fiber cladding has a lower Index of Refraction (IOR) than the core,
causing light to stay within the core. Depression of the cladding
profile promotes Total Internal Reflection
To achieve tighter bend radii, some constructions change the mode field
diameter (MFD)—the area across the core of the fiber that fills with light.
Typical MFD for standard singlemode optical fiber is about 10.4µm; reduced
bend radius optical fiber may exhibit MFD of between 8.9µm and 10.3µm.
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Regardless of the type of construction, all reduced bend radius fiber prod-
ucts do one thing very well—they can perform under a tighter bend radius
where macrobends occur. Examples include a central office application,
where fiber passes from a panel into a vertical cable route or in an FTTX
deployment within the confines of an optical network terminal (ONT).
The fiber’s performance is definitely impressive. For example, in ADC tests

a standard singlemode optical fiber with one turn around a 1.26-inch
(32 mm) diameter mandrel shows induced attenuation of less than 0.50 dB
at 1550 nm. This same test on a reduced bend radius singlemode 1550 nm
optical fiber shows less than 0.02 dB of attenuation.
In general, reduced bend radius optical fiber is designed to perform with

low loss across the spectrum of wavelengths, from 1285 nm to
1650 nm, using all the channels available on those wavelengths to
maximize bandwidth. Current designs include low water peak or zero
water peak so that high attenuation is avoided at 1383 nm. Many re-
duced bend radius optical fiber products meet ITU-T Recommendation
G.657, meaning they work well at 1550 nm for long distance and voice
applications and at 1625 nm for video applications.
Does it improve performance?

Despite the improved bend radius, the reality of this fiber is that bend ra-
dius protection is still a concern—just not to the extent that it is in standard
fiber. There is still a mechanical limit on how tightly any optical fiber can
be routed before the structural integrity of the glass is violated.
The assumptions about improved performance are not accurate either, at

least beyond the exceptional bend radius performance. In reality, the perfor-
mance of reduced bend radius optical fiber—or any optical fiber—depends
upon many factors, not just bend radius properties.
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22 Central Office
By itself, reduced bend radius optical fiber does not offer improvements in
attenuation. True, it bends more tightly without causing additional attenu-
ation. Yet laid out on a long, straight run next to a standard optical fiber,
there is no difference in performance that can be attributed to the cables’
construction. It is inaccurate to believe that reduced bend radius optical
fiber is the end-all solution when, in fact, there are many other factors that
determine optical fiber link performance.
Durability – Reduced bend radius optical fiber offers the same crush resis-
tance and tensile strength as the same cable with standard singlemode fi-
ber. As with standard optical fiber, excessive weight will crush reduced bend
radius optical fiber and excessive pulling tension will damage the cable,
both of which affect attenuation.
Connector pull-off resistance – Cable assemblies and connectors must

meet Telcordia® (GR-326) requirements for strength of the fiber termination
connector. Reduced bend radius optical fiber does not improve connector
pull-off resistance. Connectors that are easily loosened or disconnected in-
crease attenuation and cause failures.
Connector performance – When it comes to connector performance,

endface characteristics determines loss from the connector. Reduced
bend radius optical fiber does not impact insertion loss from connectors,
making termination and quality of connectors an important consideration
in link performance.
Proper applications for reduced bend radius optical fiber

Singlemode reduced bend radius optical fiber offers benefits for
applications that including the central office, FTTX deployments, data cen-
ter, and OEM solutions. Singlemode reduced bend radius optical fiber is
best suited for environments where little or no bend radius protection is
available. It is also ideal for applications where space is an issue. Specific ap-
plications that make sense for this type of fiber include places in which:
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Space is tight – For drop cable or termination of pigtails in multiple dwell-

ing unit (MDU) and optical network terminal (ONT) boxes for FTTX deploy-
ments—where there is no space and often no cable management—reduced
bend radius optical fiber offers less chance of increased attenuation during
field installation and maintenance.
No fiber management is available – The front of frames and routers—

where moves/adds/changes occur—is ideal for use of reduced bend ra-
dius patch cords and multifiber breakout assemblies. Many OEM active
components do not have bend radius limiters or protection on the front
of the equipment.
Space is at a premium – Patch cords and multifiber breakout assemblies

that can bend more tightly enable increasing density of active equipment
in racks and cabinets without sacrificing access. For manufacturers of ac-
tive equipment, reduced bend radius optical fiber can help reduce size
of electronics, improving density and airflow. However, in these
applications, even more consideration must be paid to the elements
of proper cable management. Tighter bend radius also offers OEMs the
chance to increase the functionality of active equipment by utilizing less
chassis space.
Of course, a key advantage of reduced bend radius optical fiber is use in

high bandwidth applications. For standard optical fiber, the 1625 nm to
1550 nm wavelengths are the first to go when the cable is wrapped around
a mandrel. Preserving these wavelengths around tighter bends offers ben-
efits for OEMs seeking to improve functionality of network equipment or
network managers looking for the efficiency of having all wavelengths
available on a given optical link.
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24 Central Office
Conclusion
Singlemode reduced bend radius optical fiber has generated quite
a buzz, and it is a great step forward in optical fiber construction. It makes
much-handled patch cords and multifiber assemblies less susceptible
to macrobends that affect attenuation and limit bandwidth of optical
fiber links.
It is crucial for the health and performance of the network to be aware that
reduced bend radius fiber does not, in any case, mean that the fundamen-
tals of proper fiber management are to be ignored. In fact, as this fiber is
used in higher density applications, factors such as connector access and
cable routing paths become even more crucial. Reduced bend radius optical
fiber is just one aspect of a complete strategy for efficient, future-proofed
network management.
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Chapter 3
Incorporating Passive CWDM Technology vs. Deploying

Additional Optical Fiber
The recent advancement in telecommunication applications for voice,

video and data places additional demands on fiber optic networks.
Adding additional fiber to existing networks can be very costly to service
providers. In most cases, a far better—and less costly—option is found in
coarse wavelength division multiplexing (CWDM) technology.
CWDM technology adds greater fiber bandwidth while increasing the flex-
ibility, accessibility, adaptability, manageability and protection of the net-
work for applications up to 60 km.
What is CWDM?
CWDM can be viewed as a “third generation” of WDM technology. WDM
was developed as a fiber exhaust solution and traditionally employed the
1310 nm and 1550 nm wavelength signals. In most WDM scenarios,
providers with a fixed number of fibers had run short of bandwidth due
to rapid growth and/or unforeseen demand. By multiplexing a signal
on top of the existing 1310 nm wavelength, they could create additional
channels through a single fiber to increase the network’s capacity.
However, demand continued to increase dramatically with new inno-

vations and applications such as the internet, text messaging and other
high bandwidth requirements. This created the need for very fine channel
spacing to add even more wavelengths or channels to each fiber.
Dense WDM (DWDM) was a major breakthrough as equipment provid-
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26 Central Office
ers pushed to offer new equipment, promising nearly unlimited bandwidth

potential. However, while DWDM was quickly adopted for long-haul and
transoceanic optical networking, its use in regional, metropolitan, and cam-
pus environments was, in most cases, cost prohibitive.
A more targeted and cost-effective solution followed with CWDM, a

more recent standard of channel spacing developed by the International
Telecommunication Union (ITU) organization in 2002. This standard calls
for a 20 nm channel spacing grid using wavelengths between 1270 nm
and 1610 nm (see Figure 1). The cost of deploying CWDM architectures
today is significantly lower than its DWDM predecessors.
Prior to ITU standardization, CWDM was fairly generic and meant a

number of things. For instance, the fact that the choice of channel spac-
ing and frequency stability was such that erbium-doped fiber amplifiers
(EDFAs) could not be used was a common thread. One typical definition
for CWDM was two or more signals multiplexed onto a single fiber, one
in the 1550 nm band and the other in the 1310 nm band—basically, the
original definition for early WDM.
O-band E-band S-band C-band L-band

1260-1360 1360-1460 1460-1530 1530-1565 1565-1625
2
Fiber attenuation (dB/km)
Water
peak
1.5 1270 1290 1310 1330 1350 1370
1390
1410
1430 1450
1470 1490 1510 1610
1530 1550 1570 1590
1
0.5
ITU-T G.652 fiber

0
1200 1300 1400 1500 1600
Wavelength (nm)
Figure 1: CWDM wavelength grid as specified by ITU-T G.694.2–

Today’s standardized CWDM is better defined as a cost-effective solution
for building a metropolitan access network that promises all the key
characteristics of a network architecture service providers dream
about—offering transparency, scalability, and low cost.
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New developments
Even though the ITU’s 20 nm channel spacing offers 20 wavelengths
for CWDM, the reality is that wavelengths below 1470 nm are con-
sidered unusable on older G.625 specification fibers due to the in-
creased attenuation in the 1310-1470 nm bands. However, new fibers
that conform to the G.652.C and G.652.D standards, such as
Corning SMF-28e and Samsung Widepass, nearly eliminate the wa-
ter peak attenuation peak to allow for full operation of all ITU CWDM
channels in metropolitan and regional networks.
This enables a CWDM system to operate effectively at the low end of

the ITU grid where attenuation was problematic for earlier fibers. For
example, an Ethernet LX-4 physical layer uses a CWDM consisting
of four wavelengths near the 1310 nm wavelength, each carrying
a 3.125 Gbits/second data stream. Together, the four wavelengths can
carry 10 Gbits/second of aggregated data across a single fiber.
As mentioned earlier, a major characteristic of the recent ITU CWDM

standard is that the signals are not spaced appropriately for amplification
by EDFAs. This limits the total CWDM optical span to somewhere near
60 km of reach for a 2.5 Gbits/second signal. However, this distance is
suitable for use in metropolitan applications. The relaxed optical frequen-
cy stabilization requirements also allow the associated costs of CWDM
to approach those of non-WDM optical components.
Basic implementation
As stated earlier, CWDM’s appeal is firmly rooted in meeting
the additional demands being placed on fiber networks by a steady
stream of new, bandwidth-hungry applications. Adding more fiber is
one solution, but there are many possible obstacles that will likely
make this solution cost prohibitive. Although every situation is
different and brings unique considerations to the table, nearly any
fiber deployment includes rights-of-way, trenching costs, additional equip-
ment, manpower, and considerable time.
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28 Central Office
Market studies have indicated accrued costs between $10,000 and $70,000
per mile to deploy new fiber cable. The large disparity is due to different
situations—for example, it costs far more to tear up a city street than to
simply trench fiber in a rural setting. But the key issue is that network archi-
tects can incorporate a CWDM system for much less cost and still achieve
the bandwidth increases necessary to meet demand today and well into the
foreseeable future.
Basically, a CWDM implementation involves placing passive devices, trans-

mitters, and receivers at each end of the network segment. CWDM per-
forms two functions. First, they filter the light to ensure only the desired
combination of wavelengths is used. The second function involves multi-
plexing and demultiplexing the signal across a single fiber link. In the multi-
plex operation, the multiple wavelength bands are combined onto a single
fiber for transport. In the demultiplex operation, the multiple wavelength
bands are separated from the single fiber to multiple outputs. (See Figures
2 and 3)
ADC’s passive network solution adds value by using the value-added

module (VAM) platform to multiplex and demultiplex. These VAMs can
easily be incorporated into central office (CO), multiple service operator
(MSO), and mobile switching center (MSC) environments for leveraging
the benefits of CWDM. The MSC uses CWDM to multiplex the different
hosts on a wireless coverage system to multiple remotes using minimal
fiber strands. Even a single fiber can service four, six, or eight different re-
mote units. From there, an antenna is attached to each device to enable
indoor wireless coverage.
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Figure 2: CWDMs in use—For example, MSOs can install a band system at the head-
end that will drop one wavelength to each node along a particular ring configura-
tion. This ring can be utilized as a single fiber. Each CWDM device is packaged into
the VAM platform—connectorized and labeled—for integration into the fiber panel
or cross-connect to save floor space and eliminate extra patch cords.
Designated, dedicated wavelengths

CWDM also offers the benefit of individual wavelengths for allocat-
ing specific functions and applications. Out-of-band testing capability is
achieved by simply dedicating a separate wavelength or channel for nonin-
trusive testing and monitoring. In fact, any number of different applications
can be applied to specific wavelengths. For example, a particular wave-
length might be allocated specifically for running overhead or management
software systems.
This is a common practice in using CWDM for cable television net-

works, where different wavelengths are dedicated for downstream and
upstream signals. It should be noted that the downstream and up-
stream wavelengths are usually widely separated. For instance, the
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30 Central Office
downstream signal might be at 1310 nm while the upstream signal is

at 1550 nm. Another recent development in CWDM is the creation of
small-form-factor pluggable (SFP) transceivers that use standardized
CWDM wavelengths. These devices enable a nearly seamless upgrade
in even legacy systems that support SFP interfaces, making the migration to
CWDM more cost effective than ever before. A legacy system is easily con-
verted to allow wavelength multiplexed transport over one fiber by simply
choosing specific transceiver wavelengths, combined with an inexpensive
passive optical multiplexing device.
Conclusion
ADC views the emergence of CWDM as the most cost-effective means of
moving ever-increasing amounts of information across metropolitan access
networks. For most providers, deploying new fiber as a means of combat-
ing fiber exhaust is not a viable option. There are too many high costs
involved with trenching the fiber cable, and obtaining rights-of-way can be
an intensely complex issue.
CWDM simply makes sense, particularly with the technological

advancements in today’s fiber and transceiver options, including VAM sys-
tems. CWDM achieves the critical goals of transparency, scalability, and low
cost that providers seek in today’s highly competitive industry—an industry
where new applications and increasing demand dictate the pace for mod-
ern telecommunication networks.
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Chapter 4
Adding New Video Services Warrants New Central

Office Considerations
Although it’s fair to say the distribution and access elements within the
outside plant (OSP) portion of the Fiber-to-the-Premises (FTTP) network de-
mand the majority of attention during deployment, it’s still important not to
overlook implications to the central office (CO). Any FTTP network requires
the same flexibility as the transport network—and it all begins in the CO.
The addition of video services to FTTP network presents challenges to the

CO requiring special consideration.
First, a review
Before discussing the unique challenges of video, it’s important to briefly
review the overall implications that FTTP has on the CO architecture—and
the importance of making informed decisions in the early stages. The goal
of network planners is always to minimize capital expenses and long-term
operational expenses, while achieving the highest possible level of flexibility
in the network.
Architectural decisions involve connection strategies between optical line

terminal (OLT) equipment and OSP fibers, flexibility in terms of test access
points, and WDM positioning. A key requirement for providing flexibility
evolves from ensuring full cross-connect capability. With all OLTs, as well
as OSP fibers, connected at the optical distribution frame (ODF), easy ac-
cess and significant long-term network flexibility is achieved, enabling easy
adds, moves, and changes to the ODF. Since the one constant in telecom-
munications has always been change, any assumption that the network
will remain static can result in significant long-term capital expense and
flexibility issues.
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32 Central Office
The second critical architectural decision involves placement of the video

WDM within the CO environment. The video WDM combines the voice
and data signals with video signals onto a single fiber—a key element
of FTTP deployment. Again, with expense and flexibility in mind, ADC
concludes that placing the video WDM in the cross-connect ODF lineup
is the best option.
This is done by using patch cords to connect the OLT equipment to the
inputs of the video WDM. A cross-connect patch cord connects the video
WDM common port to the designated OSP port, providing an immedi-
ate advantage of requiring just three connector pairs while still maintaining
maximum flexibility. With the video WDM located at the ODF and all OLT
patch cords routed directly to the ODF, even greater flexibility is provided
regarding how the OLTs are combined and configured. Any OLT is easily
combined with any other OLT, regardless of CO location.
Factoring in the video

The addition of video signals now presents new challenges to the con-
figuration of the CO in order to maintain the same flexibility and price
points desired in deploying FTTP. The video overlay onto the FTTP net-
work adds additional fiber cable management requirements. Also, in or-
der to split the video feed to multiple PONs, additional optical splitting is
necessary. Optical path protection switches are also incorporated where
the video signal enters the service office from the video serving office.
From the video OLT, video signals will pass through several erbium-doped
fiber amplifiers (EDFAs) used to amplify and split the signal. Each EDFA
output will be further split by additional optical splitters to maximize the
video output, allowing the most PONs to be served using the fewest
number of EDFAs. Each EDFA can have up to four outputs, each with its
own optical splitter, depending on signal strength.
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The use of optical splitters is critical, but there are several placement
options. For instance, the splitters could reside in either the OLT equip-
ment frame or the fiber frame. Placing the optical splitter in the fiber frame
enables even more flexibility. For instance, if a particular PON is located
a considerable distance away, a stronger video signal would be required
and the signal should not be split. By having the optical splitter in the
fiber frame, a patch cord can be run from the EDFA to the fiber frame,
thus bypassing the optical splitter and allowing a stronger video signal
to go to that PON. This flexibility allows video signals of various power
levels to reach PONs at various distances. These optical splitters would
reside in the fiber frame in a chassis very close to the WDM chassis on the
1550 nm input side.
Assuming the office providing the video service is not the same office in
which the video signal originates, optical protection switching is also a
consideration. Through diverse path routing, both a primary and protect
video feed enters the optical protection switch in the video OLT equip-
ment frame. The primary video feed throughputs to the video OLT, but
should that signal drop below a preset power threshold, the system
automatically switches to the redundant path (or protect) video feed.
The diverse path routing takes place at the transmission side where
a 1x2 splitter creates two diverse signals. This basically provides
SONET-like protection without all the electronics by using a splitter and
an optical switch—much more cost effective.
Several important cable management considerations that apply in general

to the FTTP network architecture will apply to a very great extent when it
comes to video signals. Since video signals are usually high-power analog,
they require considerations for the use of angled polish connectors, con-
nector-cleaning techniques, and other cable management practices that
contribute to signal quality.
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34 Central Office
Every network designer wants to get the most out of existing electronics.
In FTTP, that equates to getting the most PONs served and achieving the
highest network flexibility for the least amount of expense. But the con-
stantly-changing network still requires everyone to not only peer into the
future, but to also design today’s FTTP networks with the ability to adapt
to the future.
Test access for the future

Testing the FTTP network is a serious challenge for service providers. Ad-
vanced ODF solutions are being adopted that enable remote test and
monitoring functionality. With traditional ODF functionality, performing
tests or troubleshooting problems requires breaking into a patch and
basically taking the network out of service. But monitoring and testing ca-
pabilities can be incorporated into advanced ODF solutions that will enable
remote monitoring and traffic identification, as well as reduce troubleshoot-
ing and fault isolation time. The net result is more efficiency, reliability, and
cost savings.
By placing an optical NxN switch between the test equipment and the
access port on the fibers, any fiber can be tested with any test equip-
ment from the network operations center (NOC). For example, if contact
is lost with several optical network terminals (ONTs), an optical time do-
main reflectometer (OTDR) trace can be performed over the particular fiber
to isolate the fault. Performance monitoring tests can also be
accomplished without having to dispatch a technician to the frame to man-
ually perform testing.
Built-in diagnostics can identify problems within the electronic equipment,

but to see what’s happening within the fiber requires specific test equip-
ment and non-intrusive access points. In any FTTP network, it’s a point-
to-point connection from the OLT to the customer. If there is a failure in
that network, the customer is out of service—there is no redundant path
available. Therefore, the ability to restore the network quickly and easily is
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absolutely critical. The addition of this single switch provides technicians

with quick, easy, and reliable access to the network—all of which greatly
reduces network outage time and saves money.
Designing the CO to accommodate FTTP requires similar, if not more strin-

gent, cable management and architectural attributes as any transport net-
work. The video overlay makes even more demands on the CO in terms of
efficiency, flexibility, and accessibility. Decisions made by service providers
today will significantly impact the future reliability—and profitability—of
their FTTP network. But with careful planning, future-proofing the CO is a
good way to begin.
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Distribution
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Chapter 5
It’s Happening in the Hub
The Fiber Distribution Hub (FDH) continues to play a vital role in supporting
rapid deployment and connection in Fiber-to-the-Premises (FTTP) networks.
Innovation in FDH design occurs at a rapid rate and next generation fea-
tures appear in newer FDH enclosures. Key innovations include:
• Miniaturized splitter modules with plug-in installation that allow

easy additions and upgrades
• High-density termination fields with connectorized harnesses

allowing modular growth and flexible rearrangement
• A wide range of sizes and mounting configurations that retain

craft-friendly fiber management and maintenance features
• Performance enhancements to optical connectors and splitters due

to the rigorous requirements of independent testing of all optical
components and enclosures
• Time- and space-saving parking lots providing cross-connect function-

ality at interconnect loss and space levels
As a result, FDH products have been widely accepted in FTTP networks.

FTTP is now seeing large-scale deployment and FTTP deployment is defi-
nitely still happening at the hub.
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40 Distribution
Network architectures
Fiber-to-the-Business
ONT
FDH
CO/HE
Fiber-to-the
Multi-Dwelling Unit
OLT
Optical Distribution Network Fiber-to-the-Home
After years of research and experimentation with access networks,

many network providers have settled on passive optical network (PON)
architectures as the direction for future subscriber access. The PON ar-
chitecture has been adopted as a standard in ITU-T G.983.x that defines
the protocols, data rates, and operating wavelengths necessary to sup-
port network services. At the same time, the standards have established
power budgets and parameters for the fiber optic plant to ensure reliable
transport all the way to the home. The technology of high-speed PON
equipment, combined with broadband fiber offers the potential for con-
necting high bandwidth services directly to the home. The standards ensure
interoperability of equipment and therefore have driven down the cost of
deploying all optical networks. When adding in the cost savings associated
with operating an all-passive optical plant, PON networks are attractive for
overbuild as well as new network construction.
The initiative to build PON networks is often referred to as Fiber-to-the-

Premises (FTTP), to emphasize the vision of connecting fiber from the
central office/headend (CO/HE) all the way to the premises. PON
architecture includes optical line terminal (OLT) equipment at the CO/HE
that bundles voice and data services. OLT equipment utilizes wavelength
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division multiplexing (WDM) technology to provide bidirectional voice and

data services (1310 nm/1490 nm) over a single fiber. Additional WDM
components at the CO/HE allow integration of video services onto the
same fiber at the 1550 nm wavelength.
OLT equipment ports are connected through optical splitters, allowing a

single port to serve multiple subscribers. The split ratio in PON networks
can vary, but typically networks are planned with 32- or 16-way splits. The
architecture may be configured by concatenating the splitters at a single
point. Most networks are planned with 1x32 splitters centrally located for
easy access for additions, service, and maintenance.
PON architecture includes optical network terminal (ONT) equipment at

the premises for resolution of voice, data, and video services. Standardiza-
tion of ONT equipment allows the same equipment to provide services for
Fiber-to-the-Home (FTTH), Fiber-to-the-Business (FTTB), and Fiber-to-
Multiple-Dwelling Units (MDU) applications. Combining these applications
into the FTTP network architecture provides economies of scale for con-
struction and service deployment.
The optical distribution network provides physical connection between

the CO/HE and the premises and includes various cabling segments
including feeder, distribution, and drop. These various segments are typi-
cally joined together by connectors and splices. The fiber distribution hub
(FDH) is one of the key elements located between the feeder and
distribution segments and contains optical connectors and splitters to pro-
vide easy access and flexibility. The advantage of configuring the network
with connectors is to allow flexibility for service provisioning and for net-
work testing.
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42 Distribution
FDH network function

FDH Pad and Pole
Aerial Distribution
Central Office/Headend
Underground Distribution
The FDH is a key interface between feeder cables extending from the cen-
tral office to distribution fibers routed to subscribers. The FDH serves an
analogous function to serving area cabinets (SAC) used in copper-based
networks to interconnect the feeder and distribution segments of the net-
work. The hub becomes a primary point of flexibility in the network to con-
nect subscriber circuits. As service is required, technicians access the FDH
enclosure to route connections to complete subscriber circuits. The FDH
also serves as a central location for fiber optic splitters. This is where the
PON network differs significantly from a copper network.
The optical splitters allow the PON OLT port to be shared among multiple
subscribers via the 1xn split, thus defraying the cost of the OLT. By locating
the splitters in the outside plant close to the serving area, the cost of feeder
fiber is also significantly reduced. For instance, when a 1x32 splitter is placed
in the FDH, one feeder fiber may be routed into a neighborhood and provide
service connection to 32 subscribers. Another reason to locate splitters in the
FDH is that splitters can be deferred until they are needed to satisfy service
requirements. The FDH can be accessed to add splitters as service demands
grow. Newer hub designs accept modular splitters that quickly plug into the
FDH to allow capacity to be expanded within a few minutes.
Typically, the FDH is equipped with one stub cable that is spliced into a
feeder cable and another stub cable that is spliced to a distribution cable.
Construction is usually completed using standard splicing techniques (usu-
ally mass splicing) with splices stored in standard splice closures. Some FDHs
are even equipped to handle the splicing inside the cabinet.
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Key FDH capabilities – and innovations

The FDH enclosure provides a crucial craft interface in the outside plant
environment. Therefore each major function of the hub supports easy craft
access for service and maintenance.
Splitter Shelf
and Modules Fiber Management
Termination Splice Shelf and Trays
Termination field
The termination field provides a location for terminating fiber distribution
cable on optical connectors and adapters. The termination field is sized to
support the number of subscribers located in the distribution serving area
downstream from the FDH. FDH enclosures support a range of termination
field sizes.
The termination field provides easy access to both sides of the adapt-
er to facilitate cleaning and maintenance. ADC FDH enclosures feature
a unique swing frame design, a hinged chassis containing all the key
optical components including splitters, connectors, and splices. The de-
sign allows easy access to optical components from the front and rear for
cleaning and troubleshooting and is especially valuable in installations
where access is limited to the front of the cabinet only, for example, in pole
mounted applications. Large cabinets deployed in ground mount applica-
tions feature doors on the front and rear to allow full access to connectors
and splitters from the front and back.
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44 Distribution
Terminations in the field are clearly marked to provide accurate identifica-

tion of each subscriber termination. The termination field provides organi-
zation and protection for fiber jumper connections as they transition into
the fiber management section of the enclosure.
Recent FDH innovations include high-density component packaging

resulting in significant reduction of enclosure sizes. High-density termi-
nation fields with connectorized harnesses allow modular growth and
flexible arrangements.
High-density termination – Early FDH termination requirements were

often matched exactly to the requirements for subtending living units in
the immediate fiber serving area. For instance, a 216 fiber hub was speci-
fied to support a fiber serving area of approximately 200 subscribers, pro-
viding a small (approximately five to ten percent) portion of spare fibers
routed into the serving neighborhoods. With more experience, planners
realized that additional fiber capacity downstream could be required for
unforeseen changes in the network or in services supplied. However, while
specifying increased numbers of spare fibers, resulting in increased fiber
termination requirements, users were reluctant to increase the overall
size of the enclosures. Therefore, fiber termination fields had to handle the
increased capacity within already defined enclosure sizes. This involved in-
creasing termination density and also increasing the fiber handling capac-
ity for a particular enclosure. For example, enclosures previously handling
216 fibers were upgraded to terminate 288 fibers. This increase in density
provides the desired fiber counts along with the spare growth capacity re-
quired for typical fiber serving areas, while maintaining the overall size of
the enclosure.
Modular, scalable distribution – In overbuild scenarios, the termination

field on the distribution side is fully populated with connectors at the initial
installation, and the enclosure is provided with fully-terminated stub cables
sized for the enclosure’s direct termination needs. Network planners, how-
ever, considering newer greenfield developments, look for ways to defer
cost and match the FTTP build to the pace of the development’s build.
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A new development, constructed in phases over a period of years, may

not initially require an FDH with a fully-populated termination field. This
situation may be better served by gradually deploying terminations
as needed. To satisfy this requirement, the FDH enclosure includes modular
blocks that allow terminations to be added as required. The modular termi-
nation block allows upgrades to the FDH to match the requirements of the
FTTP network deployment, thus deferring hardware costs.
Improved overall performance – Advances in planar splitter technology

have dramatically decreased the amount of signal loss when a single fiber
is split into several outputs. Innovation in component performance has re-
sulted in lower loss connections, in both the termination fields and the split-
ters. Improved connector performance for the widely used SC components,
allows connectorization to replace splicing on both feeder and distribution
fibers while still meeting the overall loss limits within the FDH. Using con-
nectorization for input fibers and distribution panels greatly reduces the
amount of time required to install and upgrade an FDH.
Splitter field
Splitter modules are designed to snap-in to the splitter field and can be
added as required by service demands. The splitter field protects, organizes,
and routes both the input and output fibers. The optical splitter modules
provide up to 32 connectorized pigtail outputs and one pigtail input.
Early generations of FDH were deployed fully loaded with splitter modules
that featured storage ports, sometimes referred to as parking lots, located
on the front of the module to stage splitter output pigtails temporarily until
they were connected into service. The splitter module assembly included
modular “parking adapters,” each holding 16 or 32 connectors. As a split-
ter module was installed, the fibers were fed into the fiber management
trough and the parking adapters were snapped into place in the parking
area. Individual connectors were then easily separated from the parking
adapter and routed to the termination field during service turn-up.
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46 Distribution
Recently, the parking lots have been relocated to a spot in the FDH away
from the splitter modules. The parking adapters are removed from the split-
ter module, allowing the splitter module to be reduced in size.
Today, most carriers take an incremental approach to adding splitter mod-

ules—deploying FDH enclosures initially with just the splitter modules re-
quired to begin service connections. This reduces the number of parking
lots required for pigtail outputs. In essence, splitter outputs “time share”
parking lots; as the outputs of the initial splitter modules are placed into
service, the parking lots associated with those outputs become available for
parking subsequent splitter module outputs This allows a significant reduc-
tion in the size of the parking lot, and consequently, a reduction in the size
of the FDH.
“Blind-mate” connections – New miniaturized splitter modules feature

planar optical splitters and are 75 percent smaller, another contributing
factor in the reduction of the FDH’s size. Additionally, innovation has im-
proved the way splitter modules are installed into the enclosure. First gen-
eration modules were designed with the splitter module input extended as
a pigtail, which was spliced to feeder fibers. As each subsequent splitter
was installed, it was spliced to feeder fibers staged in splice trays. Splic-
ing consumes valuable time, and adds costs to service turn-up. Earlier
improvements included connectors on the feeder fibers that allow quick
connection during splitter module installation, or a connector on the pig-
tailed input and a connector on the feeder fibers mated at a connector
panel in the enclosure. This approach provides a simple, much improved
method for quickly installing splitters. Connectorization of the feeder fi-
bers at the FDH also allows testing on the feeder from the FDH if required.
However, connectorization of the feeder fiber also raised a safety concern
regarding high power when analog video is transmitted over the path. To
address this concern, connectors can be angled or adapters with shutters
provided to prevent a technician from accidentally looking into the high-
powered termination.
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Further innovations have resulted in a backplane connector system for in-

stalling splitter modules. In this configuration, feeder fibers are terminated
with a standard connector pre-positioned on the backplane to receive a
plug-in splitter module with a mating connector. The backplane connector
is shuttered for safety so that a technician cannot accidentally look into an
unmated splitter module. As a splitter module is inserted into the backplane
receptacle, the module presses open the shutter to allow the splitter mod-
ule connector to mate with the backplane connector. This “blind-mate” ap-
proach using a common backplane technology improves efficiency in future
expansion activities.
Splice area
The FDH features a splice area to connect feeder fibers or other cables
routed into the enclosure. One use for this area is the splicing of addition-
al splitter modules to feeder fibers as the modules are added to the FDH
enclosure. An alternative to splicing the input is to include a connector at
this location.
Factory pretermination – FDH enclosures typically include two pretermi-

nated stub cables. One stub cable is pre-connected to the optical splitter
module input so that it can be field-spliced to the feeder cable. The other
stub cable is pre-connected to the termination field, so that it can be field-
spliced to the distribution cable. These cables attach to the enclosure using
standard grip clamps and liquid-tight compression fittings seal the cables
at the enclosure entrance. Orientation of the enclosure stub cables varies,
depending on the FDH’s mounting method.
Craft-friendly fiber management

The FDH provides total fiber management using a unique front facing
cross-connect design. The front fiber management allows splitter module
outputs to be routed and staged within the enclosure for efficient connec-
tion into service at a later date.
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48 Distribution
Vertical channels using storage loops manage excess fiber slack. The entire
cabinet can be interconnected without congestion. Connectorized pigtail
ends are stored on bulkhead adapters on the front of the module so that
connector ends can be identified quickly and connected into service. Fiber
strain relief and radius control is provided through the enclosure.
Indoor configurations
As FTTH moves into densely populated areas, the use of indoor fiber
distribution hubs becomes popular due to the number of units within
a particular building, as well as space restrictions outside the buildings.
Indoor FDHs provide all the same features as an outdoor FDH, but are
typically smaller and lighter. They do not need to meet the same harsh
environmental requirements as the outdoor FDHs. Fiber count capac-
ity ranges from 72 fibers to 432 fibers, accommodating small to large
high-density buildings.
Below-grade configurations
Another option for high-density areas, as well as areas that do not allow
above ground enclosures for zoning reasons, are below-grade fiber distri-
bution hubs. These compact enclosures are stored in below-grade vaults
when not being accessed for service configurations.
Qualification
A complete FDH qualification program draws from a wide array of exist-
ing standardized tests with existing procedures. In some cases, new test
procedures have been developed and refined to support the new con-
figurations and new technologies. The overall program is composed pri-
marily of testing regiments drawn from Telcordia Generic Requirements.
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First and foremost, the qualification program involves testing optical con-
nectors to GR-326-CORE, Issue 3. All connectors utilized in the FDH en-
closure are subject to the complete outdoor service life requirements
and to the full spectrum of long-term reliability tests. In addition to testing
at 1310 nm and 1550 nm as required in GR-326, the test programs include
additional test wavelengths of 1490 nm and 1625 nm to assure users that
all operating wavelengths and all potential maintenance channels would
function under the harshest conditions.
Optical splitters are fully tested to ensure trouble free performance over
the life of the network. The splitters use planar technology and follow a
qualification program aligned with service life testing in GR-1209-CORE
and long-term reliability testing in GR-1221-CORE. Because of the nature
of testing very large devices (1x32 ports), special sampling techniques
were developed for optical measurement characteristics such as directiv-
ity. Splitter qualification is conducted at the full operation spectrum of
four wavelengths including 1310, 1490, 1550 and 1625 nm. All testing
is done in the format of the optical module that plugs into the FDH enclo-
sure, representing the exact configuration deployed in the field. Tests for
the new enclosures include a full range of environmental and mechanical
tests. Optical characterization is conducted at the same four wavelengths
as the connectors and splitters. Additionally, several of the tests such as
thermal cycling and seismic qualification are optically monitored during
the test at 1625 nm, which represents the worst-case scenario from a
fiber integrity perspective.
Independent testing of the qualification program demonstrated the FDH’s

reliability, assuring a performance level and longevity expected in an FTTP
network. Successful testing of all aspects of the enclosures, including per-
formance of optical connectors and splitters, have given users the evidence
and confidence to support wide scale deployment of FDH enclosures in the
distribution portion of FTTP networks.
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50 Distribution
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Chapter 6
Extreme-Environment Performance Considerations for FTTX

Splitter Modules
Optical splitter modules used in FTTX networks contain the splitters

that make passive optical networks possible. The module physically pro-
tects the splitter and provides a means to connectorize the splitter inputs
and outputs.
Module housing
(1xN splitter inside) Input
Bending Strain Relief
Connectors
2 mm Furcation tube
Figure 1: Typical FTTX Splitter Module
A housing, constructed of plastic or metal, holds the splitter and provides a

means to up-jacket the splitter fibers with 2mm furcation tube for connec-
torization. A certain number of outputs are connectorized. The input fiber
may be connectorized, can be a pigtail, or can be attached to the module
by means of a backplane.
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52 Distribution
Industry standards
Telcordia GR-1209 and GR-1221 standards define the operating
requirements for splitter modules in North America. GR-1209 defines ba-
sic optical performance requirements such as insertion and return loss,
polarization-dependent loss (PDL), and uniformity. GR-1209 also de-
fines short-term environmental and mechanical requirements such as
input and output proof strength and side loading, and a temperature
and humidity profile. GR-1221 defines the splitter modules’ long-term
reliability requirements. GR-1221 requires splitters to go through
2,000 hours of high temperature aging, low-temperature aging,
thermal cycling, and humidity aging. GR-1221 also subjects samples
to impact and vibration testing.
The operating extremes defined in GR-1209 and GR-1221 are -40°C

to +85°C and up to 95% relative humidity. GR-1209 and GR-1221 will
typically be called out by North American service providers deploying
passive optical networks. Some service providers may require their network
to function at lower temperatures. In these cases, military specifications
(MIL SPECs) requiring -55°C minimum operating temperatures may be
called out.
These operating extremes present challenges when designing split-

ter modules. Before large-scale North American deployment of FTTX in
2004, most modules containing splitters and connectors were used in
central offices. Splitter modules saw stable environments and were there-
fore not extensively tested. Testing to extreme conditions and deploy-
ment in outside plant environments forced service providers and equip-
ment manufacturers to re-evaluate the requirements of splitter modules.
GR-1209 and GR-1221 do not consider many characteristics that
are important for devices deployed in the OSP. For example,
GR-1209 and GR-1221 do not define material properties such as
chemical resistance or installation considerations such as the handling
of furcation tubes at extreme temperatures.
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Furcation tubing
Furcation tubing is the material slipped over the splitter inputs and outputs.
The furcation tube protects the fiber from physical damage and makes con-
nectorization possible. The furcation tube is usually identical in construction
to a 2mm simplex jumper, but the .900mm tight buffered fiber is replaced
by a hollow tube. The hollow tube has a .900mm outside diameter and the
inside diameter is larger so that a fiber can be inserted. Once the fiber is
inserted into the inner tube, a connector can be terminated to the ends.
2 mm Outer Jacket
Aramid Strength
Members
Splitter Input and Inner .900 mm Tube

Output Fibers
Inserted Into This Space
Figure 2: Furcation Tube Construction
2mm simplex jumpers are typically used in controlled environments. They

are not required to meet the more stringent requirements for outside de-
ployment. It would be risky to choose a furcation tube made out of materi-
als used for controlled environment jumpers that are only rated to
-20°C. Some specific requirements of furcation tubing that aren’t explicitly
called out in GR-1209 or GR-1221 include cold-temperature handling
and cable routing, and thermal expansion and contraction.
Cold-temperature handling and cable routing – The outer 2mm

jacketing of furcation tube is made of thermoplastic materials. The tub-
ing can become very stiff at cold temperatures. This is no issue in a static
situation. However, if new service is turned on at cold temperatures,
a technician will have to re-route the up-jacketed splitter outputs in the
fiber distribution hub (FDH). If the furcation tube is too stiff because of
the cold temperature, routing becomes difficult and bending can occur,
causing high insertion loss.
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54 Distribution
Standard jumper jacketing materials such as PVC become very stiff at tem-
peratures lower than -20°C. Proper design requires that furcation tubes
be made of different materials. Polyurethane is one possible choice for the
outer jacket. This material remains relatively flexible to temperatures as
low as -60°C and is resistant to chemicals commonly used in tele-
communications and to fungus. Some types of PVC outer jacketing
can also become permanently stiff if exposed to high tempera-
tures for extended periods of time. As the PVC ages, plasticizers in the
cable degrade causing the jacket to stiffen. Polyurethane is also resistant
to this phenomenon, making it suitable for both very hot and extremely
cold environments.
Cold-temperature handling of furcation tube can be evaluated several

ways. First, the furcation tube should be tested to FOTP-104 (Fiber Optical
Cable Cyclic Flexing Test), but performed at -40°C. It could also be tested
to FOTP-37 (Low or High Temperature Bend Test for Fiber Optic Cable).
There should be no evidence of cracking of the outer jacket after the tests
are completed. Second, the ability
to re-route furcation tube within a
cable management system must
be evaluated. There are no exist-
ing industry standards to evaluate
this property. However, this prop-
erty can still be subjectively tested
by simulating cable routing at cold
temperatures.
Figure 3: Test sample on Mandrel at -40°C
A test was performed where furcation tube made of PVC and polyurethane
were wrapped around a small mandrel and aged at -40°C for 2 hours (see
Figure 3). The mandrel was removed and the cables were allowed to uncoil
themselves using only the weight of the connector (see Figure 4). The poly-
urethane furcation tube was much more flexible at -40°C than PVC. This
property makes polyurethane an ideal choice for furcation tube jacketing
because bending losses are less likely to occur when an installation take
place at cold temperatures.
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Thermal expansion and con-

traction – All furcation tubes are
made of thermoplastics. Plastics
tend to expand at high tempera-
tures and contract at low tempera-
tures. However, the optical fiber
will remain the same length over
these temperature extremes. If
the expansion and contraction of
the plastic materials over the fiber
are not accounted for, fiber bend-
ing and high insertion loss could
occur.
Thermal affects usually cause inser-

PVC
tion loss problems at cold tempera-
tures. Plastics contract while fibers
remain the same length at low
temperatures. If the fiber within
the .900 mm inner tube of the fur- Polyurethane
cation tube is bound within, bend-
ing will occur because the fiber will Figure 4:
buckle within the inner diameter PVC and Polyurethane Tubes at -40°C
(ID) of the tube (shown in Figure
5), causing high insertion losses. (1550 nm and 1625nm).
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56 Distribution
.900 mm tube Connector
Input or output fiber at room temperature
.900 mm tube Connector
Input or output fiber at -40°C
Figure 5: Tube Contraction Illustration
There are several methods to deal with this issue. The first is to use
plastics that do not contract at -40°C. Such materials include
polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). Unfortunately, PTFE is very expensive
and doesn’t bond well to the epoxy in a connector, and is therefore not
the best choice. Other less expensive materials more suitable for connector-
ization, such as polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF) or Hytrel®1, contract only
0.5% to 0.9% at -40°C. Figure 6 shows expansion and contraction data
for various tube materials. Even this small amount of change in the tubing
can cause the fiber to bend. One can compensate for this slight contraction
by freeing one end of the fiber from the tube and providing a space for the
fiber to expand into as the .900 mm inner tube contracts. An example of
such a design is shown in Figure 7.
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Figure 6: Length Data for Various .900mm Tube Materials
Bending at cold temperatures can be avoided by letting the far end of the
fiber float freely with respect to the tube. As the tube contracts, the fiber
will push into the “expansion chamber” where it has sufficient room to
move and not violate bend radii. Such a design prevents bending losses in
environments as cold as -60°C and allows for a variety of plastic materials
to be used for the .900mm inner tube.
Figure 7: Expansion Chamber Concept
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58 Distribution
Material selection: fungus, salt spray, industrial

atmosphere, and chemical resistance
In addition to temperature and humidity, a splitter module deployed in the
outside plant has to be resistant to a variety of environmental stresses. The
following are additional criteria that should be applied to splitter modules
deployed in extreme environments.
All plastic materials in the splitter module should have a zero fungus
rating per ASTM G-21. Selecting materials with these ratings will pre-
vent fungus from growing within the splitter that could cause long-term
reliability issues.
The materials used to make the splitter module should also be resistant to
incidental contact with common chemicals used by equipment installers.
Such chemicals are defined in Telcordia GR-2898 and GR-487 and include
wasp spray, cable blocking gel, WD-40, kerosene, hydrosol, ammonia, iso-
propyl alcohol, sodium hydroxide, and sulfuric acid.
Splitter modules are usually installed in FDH cabinets deployed in a variety

of environments. These cabinets may not be completely sealed from the en-
vironment. FDH cabinets can be installed near marine locations where salt
can corrode metallic components. They could also be installed near indus-
trial sites where sulfuric corrosion is an issue. Materials should be tested for
salt spray resistance per ASTM B117 and industrial atmosphere resistance
per ASTM B809.
Splicing
One purpose of the splitter module is to up-jacket the input and output fi-
bers to which connectors can be attached. One method is to slide the fibers
into a hollow furcation tube, then directly connectorize the splitter output
fiber. Another method is to splice pigtails to the splitter outputs, then house
the splices inside the module.
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Splices have three drawbacks:
• Splices add loss to the splitter. Misalignments of the cores in the splice
will increase insertion loss of the splitter module.
• A splice adds another device to the splitter. More devices mean more
opportunities for a failure, which decreases the long-term reliability of
the splitter module.
• A 1x32 splitter module with splicing will have to house up to 32 splice

protectors. Such storage requirements make the splitter module larger,
which increases the size of the FDH cabinet.
Splitter modules without splices have lower loss, are more reliable in the
long-term, and are generally smaller in size.
Input and output strain relief

The 2 mm furcation tubes exiting the splitter module must be strain-
relieved to protect the fragile, expensive planar lightwave circuit
(PLC) splitter inside. However the requirements of GR-1209 are insufficient
to guarantee the PLC splitter remains undamaged. GR-1209 only requires
that the inputs and outputs withstand a 1 kg (2.2 pounds) load. This load
could easily be applied to the splitter during installation. Instead, the split-
ter inputs and outputs should withstand at least 6.8 kg (15 pounds) of
force. This load is the same pull-force required for fiber optic connectors
per GR-326. Because the connectors have to withstand this pull force, the
cable attached to the splitter also needs to withstand this force. A split-
ter purchaser should make sure splitter modules’ inputs and outputs meet
GR-326 requirements, not the lesser GR-1209 requirements.
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60 Distribution
Summary
FTTX splitter modules need to withstand extreme operating environments.
The requirements of GR-1209 and GR-1221 cover some of these, but are
incomplete. In addition to meeting Telcordia requirements, a splitter’s inputs
and outputs should remain flexible to at least -40°C and should account
for thermal expansion and contraction of the plastics in the tube. In addi-
tion, the splitter materials should be fungus and chemical resistant, should
withstand loads higher than those specified in GR-1209, and should not
contain splices.
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Chapter 7
Plug and Play Splitter Architectures Drive Operational Savings
After service providers decide to deploy a particular Fiber-to-the-Premises

(FTTP) architecture, they are faced with a number of important decisions.
One such decision that will significantly impact the network in terms of
time, performance, flexibility, and cost throughout its operational life, in-
volves the decision on how to connect the F1 optical feeder cable inputs to
the splitters in the fiber distribution hubs (FDHs).
There are several methods for making these connections, but select-
ing the best technique will provide benefits in many other areas, such as
turn-up speed, dealing with customer churn, and easier maintenance
and troubleshooting.
Early decisions to splice

Many early FTTP deployments sparked concerns about loss budgets. Since
the use of connectors resulted in more loss than straight splicing, network
architects decided splicing inputs to the splitters minimized losses and was
preferable. Feeder cable was brought into the cabinet and prepped into a
splice area. New splitters were installed with fiber pigtails that were spliced
into one of the F1 fibers. This method resulted in slightly less loss and en-
abled the addition of more splitters as the network grew.
However, there were also a few downsides to splicing the F1 cables to the
splitters. The first issue is the amount of time required to install each splitter.
Splicing obviously takes considerably longer than mating two connectors.
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62 Distribution
Also, splicing has an effect on the workforce. Each time a new splitter is
added, it requires technicians with more training and higher skill sets as
well as the need to have all the specialized splicing equipment available.
Not having one or the other readily available increases the time it takes to
perform the task and slows down overall deployment.
Another issue created by splicing is in the cabinet’s initial turn-up. In order

to test all the F1 fibers, the technician must splice pigtails for connecting
each F1 input to the test equipment. A considerable amount of time can
be spent during initial turn-up with splicing on pigtails and cutting them off
again following testing. This could lead to testing through the splitter or not
testing F1 inputs at all—neither of which is a recommended practice.
Testing the splitter itself requires the technician to splice a connector to the
input of the splitter. In essence, to test both the F1 and the splitter would
require breaking a splice, splicing connectors to both the F1 and the splitter,
running the tests, cutting off the connectors, and re-splicing the F1 to the
splitter input. This process is both time consuming and costly.
Benefits of connectors
Eventually, network technicians determined that there are advantages to
using a connectorized approach in the FDH. They decided to add a con-
nector onto the F1 cable that would easily connect it to the splitter input.
Several factors contributed to the decision to connectorize this process.
First, as volumes have increased in the last few years, connector quality
has improved significantly; the loss attributed to a connection has dropped
about one-tenth of a decibel. Additionally, splitters have further reduced
loss characteristics. Typical loss for a splitter was traditionally about 17 dB,
but that has improved to about 16.5 dB today. Together, these improve-
ments have resulted in more budget for loss—and a good place to use
some of that is in adding a connector to the splitter input.
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Adding a connector to the F1 provides more rapid testing of the inputs. It

also helps achieve faster splitter installation. For example, ADC’s splitters can
be installed in less than five minutes. Connectorization eliminates time and
expense involved in installing each splitter into the FDH while providing one
more area for segmenting the network during troubleshooting procedures.
Splitter choices
Once the network architect makes the choice for connectorization, there
are two splitter configurations available—pigtail-and-play or plug-and-play.
Although both offer substantial benefits over straight splicing, the plug and
play configuration has additional advantages. For example, the F1 connec-
tion requires no routing when installing the splitter. This mitigates the risk of
disturbing an adjacent F1 connection when installing a new splitter.
In the past, there was a potential for the technician routing the F1 to acci-
dentally disturb an adjacent F1, which could cause a service interruption or
outage for 32 customers. In many cases, the F1 can be exposed whenever a
technician works on the cabinet. This allows a potential for accidental dam-
age any time a technician performs a task, such as connecting an F2 cable.
But with a plug and play splitter design, the connection is made between
the F1 and the splitter simply by plugging the splitter in the backplane of
the cabinet.
One argument for the pigtail-and-play splitter is its ability to provide more
flexibility for routing business services through the cabinet. Having a pigtail
in place provides a separate patch panel for routing business services or
expressing them through the cabinet.
Although this is a point well taken, it may be an even better idea to have
those business services and their F1 connection segregated from the resi-
dential services. Business services include several classes of service with dif-
ferent service level agreements associated with them—along with different
revenue streams.
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64 Distribution
Even in a plug and play scenario, there is typically a completely separate

pass-through panel used for expressing business services. This method en-
ables easy identification of a different service running on a particular cable.
Finally, plug and play splitters also require less routing expertise than the
pigtail-and-play version. That equates to less training required to perform
service and maintenance at areas of the network that incorporate connec-
tors versus splices.
The goal of any FTTP build-out is to achieve the right balance between up-
front initial equipment costs and operational costs involved in long-term
performance of the network. In terms of initial cost, connectors are typically
more expensive than a splice. However, a connectorized FDH cabinet is one
point in the network where using connectors makes sense.
With the improvements in the loss characteristics of both fiber optic con-
nectors and optical splitters, connectorization’s operational cost advantages
far outweigh splicing’s initial cost savings. These operational advantages—
faster turn-up, easier test access, lower training requirements, less special-
ized equipment, and an overall more flexible network—are only achievable
with a connectorized F1 input.
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Chapter 8
The Economics of FTTN vs. FTTP
There are three predominant schools of thought regarding how to meet the
ever-increasing bandwidth needs of consumers and businesses. Fiber-to-
the-Premises (FTTP) architectures take optical fiber all the way to the home
or office and offer the most future-proof solution in terms of pure band-
width capabilities. But in some cases, FTTP may not be the optimal solution
in terms of overall cost and the value of existing infrastructure.
Fiber-to-the-Node (FTTN) solutions offer service providers an alternative

solution to providing the necessary bandwidth required by today’s voice,
data, and video services while taking advantage of existing infrastructure.
In many cases, FTTN can actually complement FTTP deployments. Finally,
there is a Fiber-to-the-Curb (FTTC) solution that boasts 80 Mbits/second to
the home. Certainly the question surrounding this architecture is whether
80 Mbits/second will be adequate and for how long.
At the end of the day, the key consideration in choosing which architec-
ture will work best for any provider boils down to bandwidth—now and
in the future.
If a high percentage of a provider’s network is already designed using digi-

tal loop carrier (DLC) remote terminals, it may make more sense to deploy
FTTN from an economic standpoint. Traditional telephone service provid-
ers seeking to offer additional broadband services over an existing copper-
based voice network may find FTTN more advantageous and less costly
than building a new network that takes fiber all the way to the customer.
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66 Distribution
The business case

Every operating company must consider its own business case in relation
to the capabilities of the existing network. Since an FTTN strategy seeks
to leverage existing facilities as much as possible, it will ultimately come
down to what each individual carrier sees as the real demand for customer
bandwidth—and where that demand will be five to ten years from now.
Additionally, whether the carrier chooses FTTN or FTTC strategy as an early

alternative to FTTP for rapidly providing broadband services to customers,
it’s important to ensure network longevity. Any solution should include
an easy migration path to FTTP if future bandwidth demands exhaust the
bandwidth capabilities of the current infrastructure.
Installation cost is always the primary concern in making a business case

for the network architecture. FTTN architecture will be less expensive to
install than FTTP because it re-uses legacy infrastructure for the final 3,000
to 5,000 feet. But, as stated earlier, installation costs alone should not nec-
essarily dictate choosing FTTN over FTTP, particularly if the FTTN overbuild
network will only provide a five-year life in terms of bandwidth demand.
Service providers may find themselves in the position of deciding which

course of action is more prudent in the long run—reaching customers
ahead of competitors with an FTTN overbuild that may require upgrades
in a few years, or spending more money for a new FTTP network that will
provide all the necessary bandwidth for years to come. In other words, FTTN
has the potential for faster return on investment, yet it may require a com-
plete overhaul at some point—possibly sooner rather than later, depending
on consumer bandwidth demand.
Another consideration in choosing between FTTN and FTTP depends on

how much of the network is rural and how much is metro. A service pro-
vider can leverage FTTN in areas with limited customers and lower entry
costs in rural areas, making broadband services available to customers
more quickly.
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Bandwidth—How much is enough?

The biggest unknown in the broadband services equation lies in how much
bandwidth will be enough to support video into the next decade. Will 50
Mbits/sec be enough? 80 Mbits/second? 100 Mbits/second? For the mo-
ment, MPEG4-encoded high-definition television (HDTV) requires about
9-10 Mbits/second, enabling consumers to receive four HDTV stations from
a 50-Mbits/second asynchronous digital subscriber line (ADSL) service. With-
out knowing content requirements in the future and how much bandwidth
will be required to deliver new applications and services, a limited service of
50 Mbits/second could easily come up short in just a few years.
Pair bonding can be used to produce higher bandwidth capability from

FTTN build-outs that use copper-based “last mile” architectures. This tech-
nique enables the electronic bonding, inside the DSLAM, of two output
DSLAM ports for providing twice the bandwidth to a single customer. This
requires availability of two continuous copper pairs to the customer prem-
ises. Also, the service delivery platform, such as the cross box or interface,
must support the pair bonding.
There are other issues that must be considered to implement this technique
successfully. For example, this technique requires using more of the DSLAM
to serve fewer customers. With that in mind, a 192-circuit DSLAM may only
be capable of handling 96 customers if multiple HDTV services are demand-
ed at each residence. Also, if the distribution area requires resectionalization
as reachable distances decrease (for example, deploying VDSL will require
new cabinets for reaching customers outside a 3000-foot perimeter), the
deployment of additional adjunct DSLAMs may be necessary. Furthermore,
if existing cross boxes do not have the necessary binding posts to support
them, this initiative can quickly become very complicated and expensive.
Another wildcard in making a decision between FTTN and FTTP is in know-

ing what changes will occur in active components over the next few years.
As these components improve, the bandwidth guessing game gets more
and more complicated. Where does this leave the network architect?
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68 Distribution
Business cases must be determined by customer needs today and the best
determination of what they will need in the future. An increasing demand
for additional bandwidth for cutting-edge broadband services seems like
the one thing everyone agrees on. But will the network upgrades to pro-
vide that additional bandwidth be a simple matter of swapping out a card
at each end of the network? Will it require a higher quality fiber plant to
support high-end services? Will factors like better forward error correction
techniques enable longer use of existing infrastructure?
The long and short of FTTN

FTTN offers several advantages over the short term to want to be first in
reaching customers with today’s broadband services. Because it re-uses ex-
isting infrastructure to the customer, turn-up can be achieved faster to meet
immediate consumer demand. For the same reason, FTTN is a less expen-
sive overbuild and, therefore, will provide a faster return on investment,
particularly in many brownfield situations.
However, there are still many unanswered questions about bandwidth

demand over the long term that cannot be ignored. FTTN architectures
will continue to have bandwidth limits that may be exceeded—perhaps
in five years or less. On the other hand, FTTP is certainly a more future-
proof network design. In greenfield models, there is no question it is
the architecture of choice. It cannot be overstated that any decision to
deploy an FTTN overbuild network should include a solution that
provides a relatively easy migration to FTTP.
In the end, the final decision for FTTN boils down to current architecture
and several considerations that each operating company must resolve. Is
it more advantageous to opt for an initial cost savings model with faster
return on investment? Can we depend on technology improvements that
will allow us to avoid the need to upgrade in the near future? Or is it more
important, despite additional costs, to upgrade directly to FTTP to ensure
future-proofing the network against any future bandwidth demand?
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There is no “one size fits all” solution when transforming the traditional
switched approach network into a high-speed, high-capacity broadband
network. These are challenging days for any service provider—but making
decisions based on today’s information coupled with a concern for future
events will help network architects develop a solid business plan that meets
each unique situation.
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Chapter 9
Resectionalizing the Distribution Area
Upgrading networks—from support for traditional circuit-switched services

to support demand for an increasing array of broadband services—requires
carriers to make several critical decisions. Delivering combined voice, vid-
eo, and data services challenges every service provider to seek a migration
path to broadband that can be implemented as painlessly as possible in
terms of cost, time, and ensuring a future-proof network.
Whether re-using existing copper infrastructure, or driving fiber all the way
to the customer premises—a carrier must consider all the challenges and
trade-offs involved in migration to broadband. A major consideration for
migration of a legacy network to broadband is the need to resectionalize
the network to cost effectively reach both new and existing customers.
As part of the broadband transformation process, network resectionaliza-

tion is the key consideration. Although this chapter focuses on one part of
that process, some background is required as to why resectionalization of
the network is necessary for broadband upgrading.
The need to resectionalize

While fiber is the technology of choice for the vast majority of greenfield
broadband deployments, it may not be the optimal approach in all upgrade
business models. The cost of trenching or boring fiber routes makes using
existing copper plants in conjunction with new copper technologies a more
attractive and cost-effective solution.
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72 Distribution
However, these new copper technologies, such as ADSL2+ and VDSL2,

have range limitations for delivering today’s broadband services. Although
the reach could be as great as 5,000 feet, most carriers are designing to
3,000 feet to avoid the need for continuous infrastructure changes. Of
course, each deployment is unique and must be considered in terms of
geography and up-front costs.
Due to the reach limitations of deploying broadband services over existing

copper infrastructure, the existing voice distribution areas DAs will require
a resectionalization process. In order to provide optimum bandwidth, large
DAs that once delivered voice services to customers tens of thousands of
feet from a central office (CO) or remote terminal will now have to be
re-designed with many smaller sub-areas to accommodate range limits of
3,000 feet.
With that in mind, most carriers view the network in three sub-classifica-
tions—customers reached directly from the CO, customers reached via re-
mote terminal digital loop carriers (DLCs), and customers in low density ar-
eas. This chapter focuses on those customers within 3,000 feet of the CO,
known as the Central Office Home Distribution Area, or CO Home DA.
The CO Home DA
Most carriers provide some form of DSLAM services out of their CO, such
as ADSL or other copper-fed services, associated with providing data trans-
port. However, today’s demand for broadband technology requires them to
upgrade to broadband-capable copper technologies like ADSL2+, VDSL or
VDSL2. In most instances, upgrading an older DSL line to ADSL2+ or VDSL2
will not be as simple as upgrading the DSLAM line card, as DSLAM back-
planes are completely different in most platforms.
The first area of concern for reaching customers—and the easiest for the
carrier to deploy broadband services rapidly—is in the CO Home DA. This
area represents a 3,000-foot circle around the CO and includes all custom-
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ers within that circle currently being direct-fed on copper from the CO.
Since there are no new issues with space or infrastructure, the CO Home
DA represents the easiest subsection to upgrade for broadband services.
It should be noted that the carrier may still service some customers be-
yond 3000 feet from the CO. However, the requirement to provide enough
bandwidth to support consumer demand estimates—one standard defini-
tion video channel and two high-definition channels, along with voice and
high-speed internet services—must be considered.
From the CO, the main concern is not how to feed various cabinets with
sufficient fiber, but rather how to make efficient use of the existing cop-
per plant. Therefore, the concern would center on the DSLAM—how it is
installed and cabled to the main distribution frame (MDF) and where all the
cables terminate to protection.
Deployment becomes more complicated when dealing with a system that

lacks integrated splitters. If the DSLAM does not have integrated splitters
for combining voice and data signals, carriers must plan what type of split-
ters will be used and where to locate them. The bottom line is that some-
how the voice and data signals must be split and filtered at each end of the
network segment.
There are additional considerations and challenges with legacy DSLAMs

that should be addressed by carriers for broadband upgrade. Even though
DSLAMs are typically less than 10 years old, the new ADSL2+ and VDSL2
technologies are not spectrally compatible with original DSL offerings. The
signal levels and power requirements of new next-generation DSLAMs can
cause interference issues with existing ADSL DSLAMs between adjacent
binding groups. In short, the original DSLAM may not mix well with new
broadband DSL technologies.
For example, there may be customers who are currently being fed ADSL out
of a particular cable group. If a new broadband ADSL2+ or VDSL2 system is
placed downstream, those customers would likely need to be rolled down
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74 Distribution
to the newer ADSL2+ or VDSL2 system. Both signals cannot reside in the
same binder groups. Although there are some new technologies emerging
that employ amplifiers to enable both signals in the same binder group, the
technology is brand new and carriers need to carefully consider this chal-
lenge in terms of both cost and network efficiency.
Typical CO upgrade to broadband

During migration to broadband services, carriers will typically be confronted
with several issues at the CO Home DA section of the network. First, a
new DSLAM will likely be installed and turned up for service. As orders
begin arriving for new broadband services from the CO Home DA
customers, those customers will be connected directly to the new DSLAM.
Other customers will be left alone until they actually request broadband
services. Therefore, carriers will continue to use existing DSLAMs to
service existing customers who are not ready for next generation
broadband upgrades.
Thus, the broadband network will evolve as demand is pinpointed and

areas are identified that will generate the most revenues and the least
up-front cost. Main targets will be the areas most easily upgraded— par-
ticularly in the CO Home DA. Here, it’s a simple matter of mounting the
broadband DSLAM in available relay rack space, cabling to the main frame,
and turning up services. Legacy DSLAMs will continue providing ADSL to
customers who are content with that service, and the broadband network
will expand as customer demand increases.
Carriers may also require pair bonding to reach some customers who want
broadband IP services, but are just beyond the 3,000-foot reach. These “no
man’s land” areas—areas that reside just outside of both the CO reach and
any remote terminal—must also be addressed during resectionalization.
More new technologies are emerging to address these pockets, including
new, very small 48-circuit hardened DSLAMs.
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Conclusion
A resectionalization of the current switched-voice network is the first step
in providing broadband services using as much of the legacy infrastructure
as possible. Within the first 3,000 feet of the CO—known as the CO Home
DA—the move to broadband is relatively simple by upgrading the DSLAM
and using legacy copper routing.
As service providers decide on the most cost-effective, reliable method for

delivering today’s broadband voice, video, and data services, they must
weigh the pros and cons of both Fiber-to-the-Premises (FTTP) and Fiber-
to-the-Node (FTTN) to determine how far to push the fiber. If overbuild-
ing existing networks is cost-prohibitive, then FTTN becomes an attractive
alternative, particularly if it provides a smooth future migration to FTTP.
The resectionalization process is a key component in enabling carriers
to upgrade their networks for delivering broadband services to new and
existing customers.
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Access
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Chapter 10
Creating a Cost-Effective Plug and Play FTTX Architecture
In any FTTX deployment, the goal of network planners is to build the most
flexible and reliable system possible in the least amount of time and at
the lowest possible cost. A plug and play architecture featuring hardened
connectors, drop cables and multiport service terminals (MSTs) provides ad-
vantages that accelerate FTTX deployment and rapid service turn-up. By
design, this architecture increases the network’s reliability and flexibility—
while still offering service providers cost-effective solutions.
Furthermore, a plug-and–play architecture creates a more technician-

friendly system by minimizing the need for highly-skilled splice technicians
in making drop connections to the residence. By reducing the number of
splices required on the distribution side of the FTTX network, installation
and maintenance can be accomplished quickly and easily. Additionally, easy
access at the MST facilitates maintenance and troubleshooting by allowing
technicians to simply unplug a connector rather than breaking a splice. It
also eliminates the need to send a splice technician to the side of the home.
Both installation and operational cost savings are realized by reducing the
number of splices, splice technicians, and splice crews required to turn up
customer service.
Plug and play application

Hardened connectors and adapters meeting OSP performance and reli-
ability requirements are ideally suited to plug and play FTTX applications.
Hardened adapters mount on enclosures on the street outside and at the
optical network terminal (ONT) at the residence. A hardened drop cable
connects between the enclosure and the ONT. The drop cable is a factory-
connectorized assembly with hardened connectors on each end, pre-tested
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80 Access
and certified to meet performance requirements. Hardened connectors and

adapters feature protective caps and plugs, which are removed when they
are ready to put into service. Removal of the caps and plugs allows inner
connector components to be aligned as the connection is completed. As
the connector engages with the adapter, it is sealed to the adapter using
a watertight O-ring. The factory-connectorized drop cables enable simple,
non-technical field installation.
Cleaning techniques for these hardened connectors have also been

simplified, enabling improved reliability and maintenance. Kits are available
with easy instructions and materials for cleaning hardened connectors and
adapters. Dust caps and plugs are removed to expose the inner optical com-
ponents; the adapter is cleaned using a standard swab and the connector is
cleaned using lint-free wipes.
An additional plug and play feature of the hardened connector is the

arrow that aligns with a notch on the adapter, providing a key to ensure
precise alignment of the connector into the optical port. This feature pro-
vides higher reliability and speed when mating a connector to a hardened
adapter. The lower skill set required by the technician, easy cleaning, and
flexible access all make the plug and play solution the most durable and
reliable service connection for the OSP portion of the network.
The MST is also central to a plug and play architecture and typically sits be-
tween the fiber distribution hub (FDH) and the subscribers. The MST is a
hardened enclosure terminated and sealed in the factory with fiber cable
stubs and hardened adapters on the exterior surface. MSTs can be installed
in hand holes and pedestals, mounted on utility poles or overhead cable,
or secured to any flat surface. The MSTs are connected to the network by
splicing the stub cable to a main distribution cable. Splicing the MST into the
network is performed without any need to open the enclosure. MSTs are de-
signed to withstand direct exposure to extreme temperatures and humidity.
They are also resistant to water penetration, chemicals, and corrosion.
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Each MST uses hardened adapters for the optical ports and each port is
sealed with a threaded dust cap to prevent entry of dirt and moisture. Avail-
able in a range of port configurations, the MST ports accept subscriber drop
cables terminated with hardened connectors. By using factory-terminated
drop cables, splicing is eliminated and connectors can be made by less-
skilled technicians—saving cost and ensuring rapid service turn-up.
Connecting FTTH drops

Once the MST has been secured, preconnectorized drop cables provide
easy connectivity from the MST to the ONTs. If the MST is located in a hand
hole, the drop cable is installed in a 1.25-inch duct or directly buried with a
tracing wire. An aerial MST installation requires an all-dielectric or figure 8
drop from a pole or strand to each ONT.
Regardless of which mounting scheme is used, drop cables are quickly and
easily connected using preconnectorized drop cables. Connecting the hard-
ened connector to hardened adapters on the MST’s external surface en-
ables easy connections without opening the enclosure.
Operational cost savings

Forming the basis of a plug and play architecture, the MST and hardened
connector system provide huge operational cost advantages when com-
pared to the installation costs of the traditional spliced architectures. Cost
studies conducted by ADC for a 192-home subdivision employing both tra-
ditional spliced and plug and play architectures proved the MST and hard-
ened connector/adapter system to be significantly less costly.
Despite costs associated with adding more service terminals, the savings in
fiber cable, cable placement, and splicing more than offset any added ex-
penses. ADC’s study confirmed that the use of hardened connectors incurs
lower overall installed costs throughout the FTTX network.
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82 Access
The use of hardened connectors and adapters requires less-skilled techni-

cians, eliminates splicing costs, and allows easy access for troubleshooting
and maintenance. The ability to turn up services more rapidly and handle
customer churn equates to huge operational savings for service providers.
A simplified plug and play architecture, coupled with proper cable manage-
ment, enables service providers to save time and cost in all areas of the
access network.
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Chapter 11
Innovative Installation Techniques for Fiber Drop Terminals
As Fiber-to-the-Premises (FTTP) deployments increase, innovative method-

ologies are being developed to make the installer’s life easier. In the outside
plant—from the central office (CO) to the optical network terminal (ONT) at
each subscriber premises, new techniques and better products are helping
to streamline the process of offering triple-play services to the consumer.
Making the FTTP network as modular as possible, with easy plug-and-play

options, provides benefits, both during initial installation and throughout
the operational life of the network. ADC has achieved a leadership position
in developing, testing, and delivering products that ensure flexibility, reli-
ability, and scalability for today’s FTTP initiatives.
This chapter addresses one area in which ADC heard the frustrations of FTTP
installers and developed a unique product that alleviates those frustrations.
The new multiport service terminal (MST) universal mounting bracket is

designed to save time, reduce complexity, and streamline the process of
mounting MSTs for installing drop cables in any FTTP deployment.
Adapting to the situation ADC developed a universal mounting bracket for

installing MSTs. The most obvious benefit of the universal mounting brack-
et is its compatibility to any mounting scheme. It easily mounts to poles, in
pedestals, in hand holes, or on strands.
Because the bracket adapts for all mounting situations, MST installations
are accomplished in less time and with reduced complexity. It also elimi-
nates the logistics of ensuring brackets are available for each type of
mounting technique.
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84 Access
Since it adapts to every mounting situation, there is no possibility of the

installer suddenly discovering the appropriate bracket is not available.
The snap-in/snap-out feature of the universal bracket makes the MST read-
ily available for drop cable connections or re-connections. Its rigid plastic
structure—using the same material as the MST— ensures it can withstand
the same environmental exposures, including contracting and expanding
with temperature variations.
A single, reinforced latch enables easy MST detachment from the bracket,
while an audible engagement assures the MST is correctly snapped into
place and properly seated in the bracket’s cradle. The through holes align
with the terminal and additional holes are available for edge mounting.
Slots are provided for securing with tie wraps and Deltec straps.
Whether mounting on a pole, in a pedestal, in a hand hole, or on a strand,

the universal mounting bracket reduces cost, time, necessary logistics, and
the complexity of traditional mounting options.
Pole Mounting. Mounting MSTs on poles typically required a separate

mounting bracket costing $12 to $15. Besides additional cost, there were
several additional issues related to pole mounting.
For example, part of the installation technique required the installer to ham-
mer screws directly through holes in the terminal. Missing the screw meant
hitting the terminal—possibly damaging the connector or cable.
Placing the MST at risk in order to mount it on a pole is not a desir-

able option.
Another issue was in the logistics of ensuring the correct bracket was avail-
able, since the brackets were ordered separately. In some instances, installers
would climb up the poles, discover they were missing the correct mounting
bracket, and simply hammer the screws directly through the holes in the
terminal—again, risking damage to the terminal.
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The MST universal mounting bracket enables simplified pole mounting

without risk to the terminal. The bracket is mounted separately with two
lag bolts or screws that can be hammered in place without risking damage
to the terminal, cable, or full sized hardened adapters. The heads of the
bolts or screws fit into recessed areas where they cannot interfere with the
MST. Once mounted in place, the terminal simply snaps onto the univer-
sal mounting bracket with an audible snap to ensure the technician it has
seated properly.
ADC’s universal mounting bracket is integrated with the terminal design

and shipped together as one unit. This eliminates the need for incremen-
tal inventory in terms of separate additional mounting brackets and saves
about$15 per installation.
Pedestal Mounting. Mounting MSTs in pedestals would seem a relative-

ly simple proposition. Prior to the introduction of the universal mounting
bracket, the terminal was semi-permanently affixed to the pedestal with
nuts and bolts.
Often, consideration for mounting the pedestal would need to include

which pedestal was being used, adding another layer of complexity and
cost to FTTP deployment.
Should maintenance to the pedestal or terminal be required, removing the

terminal was inconvenient, often adding unnecessary time and effort to a
simple maintenance procedure.
The universal mounting bracket provides flexibility in allowing MST to snap

in and out of the pedestal in a matter of seconds and not minutes. The
bracket itself is semi-permanently affixed to the pedestal or pedestal center
panel using two small screws.
In a pedestal mounting environment, the universal mounting bracket re-

moves complexity and cost from FTTP deployments.
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86 Access
Hand Hole Mounting. The same universal bracket can be used below ground
in hand holes that currently use two mounting techniques– the swing arm
and waffle bracket. The swing arm is a separate bracket that swings up
from the hand hole for terminal mounting. The waffle bracket hangs on the
side of the hand hole and lifts out for mounting the terminals.
In some cases, either no mounting technique was used or installers neglect-

ed to order any brackets, so terminals were simply placed in the bottom of
the hand hole. Since hand holes can often fill with water, this is not a desir-
able method. Even with brackets, when it is time to connect drop cables to
the terminals, they must be removed from the hand hole for cleaning and
drying before attaching the cables.
ADC’s universal mounting bracket is compatible with both the swing arm
bracket and the waffle bracket. It provides hanger loops that enable it to
be hung on any existing hanger bracket. The universal bracket can also be
anchored to the lip of the hand hole, just below the cover, with two self-
threading screws. Regardless of what mounting technique is used, termi-
nals are easily snapped in and out of the universal bracket for connecting
drop cables.
By eliminating the need for separate waffle brackets or swing arms, install-
ers save $17 to $25 per installation.
The single latch removal feature and simple snap installation allows the ter-
minal to be removed easily from the hand hole and easily re-installed.
Strand Mounting. When mounting to a pole is not possible due to a lack of

space, strand mounting is the common alternative.
During an installation, the MST universal bracket is easily strand mounted

using standard materials already available to the installer. A separate strand
mounting bracket can sell for as much as $15 and, again, may not always
be readily available or even the proper one for a particular deployment. The
same universal bracket that mounts easily to a pole or into a hand hole—
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and is shipped with the MST—is contoured for strand mounting with stan-
dard heavy-duty tie wrap fasteners or Deltec.
The universal bracket is also compatible with standoff tools used for tra-
ditional strand mounting. The bracket can be secured to either fiber-optic
or copper cable. MST placements are accomplished in a variety of ways,
depending on the deployment, and may even be deferred until any point in
the future. In the advanced termination system (ATS), for example, install-
ers opt to place a multi fiber connection (MFC) at the tethered access point
(TAP), enabling them to go back at any time in the future and install an MST
using a plug-and-play approach.
The key advantages to using the MST universal mounting bracket for pole,
hand hole, or strand mounting are worth mentioning again:
• Same bracket can be pole, hand hole, or strand mounted
• Eliminates the need for more inventory and additional materials

in the field
• Reduces or eliminates the use of extra fasteners
• Uses materials already available to the installer
• Minimizes the risk of damage to the MST
• Saves cost of additional mounting brackets

($12 to $25 per installation)
• Easily engages/disengages MST with an audible snap

engagement and single latch release
• Eliminates logistics—no need to order other brackets
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88 Access
• Rigid plastic construction—same as MST—will expand or contract

with MST.
• Stands up under high vibration or stress created by cables placed in

the MST The bracket was developed by ADC as a direct result of
customer feedback about issues they were experiencing in the field
with MST mounting. The design concept evolved as an answer to
these deployment issues—and the result is the MST universal
bracket—simplifying MST mounting even where legacy equipment
already exists. By reducing MST installation time and complexity, ADC
has again helped bring the benefits of fiber directly to the end user.
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Chapter 12
Above vs. Below Ground Drop Splicing: Considerations for

Drop Cable Connections in the FTTX Network
As Fiber-to-the-X (FTTX) architectures gain momentum as a means for

delivering high-speed broadband services to homes and small business,
many questions have surfaced regarding the best way to connect the large
number of drop cables feeding into the network. Drop cables typically con-
nect each optical network terminal (ONT) at the subscriber premises to a
fiber access terminal, where they are then connected to a main fiber distri-
bution cable.
Service providers must consider whether to use splicing or connectors

at the fiber access terminal. It is ADC’s opinion that a connector pair is a
better choice at any location technicians will need to access on a regular
basis for test, turn-up and reconfiguration services. At these locations,
a connector interface will provide both significant operational cost and
time savings advantages over fusion splices. The fiber access terminal is
one such location.
The fiber plant will likely be built in one of two categories: above ground
(aerial) or below ground (buried). With an aerial plant, the service terminal is
typically mounted on a strand or pole. In a buried plant, the drop cable will
be buried below the frost line. The decision as to the best place for the fiber
access terminal in a particular network architecture involves many factors.
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90 Access
Hand hole vs. pedestal access

The two common methods for creating access points at the drop cable and
distribution cable junctures are hand holes and pedestals.
A hand hole is, quite simply, a hole in the ground that the technician can
open to access the network. Hand holes are placed at any location that
would require access for maintenance, connecting additional drop cables,
or troubleshooting.
Use of an above-ground pedestal provides easier access for the technician.

With the pedestal, the distribution cable and drop cables are underground.
Both are brought up through the bottom of the pedestal and connections
are made inside the unit. The obvious advantage is that it is easier to enter
a terminal than to work through a hand hole.
Another consideration for using pedestals centers on cost. From a construc-

tion standpoint, it is typically less expensive to install a pedestal than to
place a hand hole. Placing a hand hole requires a very large digging op-
eration, whereas a pedestal only requires a very small hole for mounting,
thereby lowering construction costs significantly.
The other benefits of a pedestal include better test access for trouble-
shooting or working on a connection in the future. Of course, there are
some possible disadvantages to using pedestals. Untrained technicians can
also gain access, as can any curious person who may want to break in or
vandalize the pedestal and equipment. Pedestals are also out in the open
areas where they can be hit by vehicles. More importantly, for aesthetic
reasons, some neighborhoods may frown on having a pedestal every two
to four houses.
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Environmental issues
In cases where pedestals may not be aesthetically appealing or there is con-
cern about possible damage from vehicles or vandals, it may make better
sense to deploy terminals below the ground. Putting them below ground
requires a hand hole. Inside the hand hole, another splice closure provides
environmental protection. This splice closure connects the drop cables with-
in the hand hole and, therefore, must be substantially more robust in design
compared to the above-ground pedestal.
Placing it below ground presents more possibility for a flooded environment,

so it must be able to withstand submersion under fairly significant water,
as well as the probability of freeze/thaw cycles in northern climates. There
are very good splice closures available in today’s market that will hold up
well under these environmental conditions.
It’s also worth noting that hand holes used in harsh winter environments
are subject to being iced over or frozen shut. The technician may spend
considerable time and effort just finding a way to chip or melt the ice away
to gain access. Once open, there may still be considerable ice and slush
to clear away before work can begin, making maintenance particularly dif-
ficult during the winter months.
Effects of temperature
A final consideration is the effect of temperature on connectors used in
either a pedestal or hand hole environment. Basically, components used to
construct OSP cable assemblies are typically made of plastic and, therefore,
tend to shrink in cold temperatures.
Exposing cable and cable assemblies to low temperatures is the most

common cause of signal transmission problems and failures in OSP archi-
tectures. Insertion loss failures, for example, are a direct result of cable
and cable assembly component shrinkage due to low temperatures. If
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this shrinkage isn’t addressed in some way during the manufacturing

process and deployment plans, the optical fibers and components could
eventually fail.
As temperatures decrease to -40°C, the effect on the cable assembly be-

comes significant as it begins to shrink. The optical fiber in the cable, how-
ever, remains at its original length. This can cause the optical fiber to bunch
up inside the temporarily shortened assembly, causing microbends and high
insertion loss at 1550 nm.
The hand hole access method provides some protection against cold tem-
perature, since everything is below ground and a cover acts as an insulator
for the cable, drops, and interfaces. In a pedestal environment, however,
temperature changes will be much more apparent. The temperatures inside
the pedestal will likely be as cold as outside temperatures in the winter,
and probably warmer than outside temperatures in the summer, since the
enclosure itself heats up if exposed to direct sunlight.
It is important for network architects to consider the temperature

challenges at each network location and with the possible effects on drop
cable connections. Whether above or below the ground, the drop cable
connection points must be protected against potentially harmful environ-
mental circumstances.
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Chapter 13
Outside Plant Connections You Can Rely On
Consumer demand for high bandwidth services has spurred innovation in

network deployment and associated service connections. Service providers
understand that customers want high-bandwidth services at a low cost,
with high reliability, and they want services connected quickly once a service
order has been initiated. Therefore, service providers are deploying new
Fiber-to-the-Premises (FTTP) networks based on passive optical network
(PON) technology, networks that are less costly to maintain and operate
compared to active optical networks or older copper based networks. In
order to achieve the revenue potential of these networks, service providers
must plan and deploy networks so that once a service request is received,
the consumer is connected as quickly as possible. Furthermore, network
connections must be placed in readiness without compromising network
reliability and without adding overall cost to the network.
In the past, optical connectors were typically deployed at points requir-

ing flexibility for service connection or to provide access for maintenance
testing. Connectors placed between equipment and the cabling plant al-
low testing during installation, easy connection during growth phases and
maintenance access in the event of trouble or during service upgrades. Op-
tical connectors increase the efficiency of work operations associated with
cable plant provisioning and maintenance.
A similar advantage is realized by designing connectors into FTTP networks.

FTTP networks are typically constructed by terminating a fiber cable at the
street outside a residence prior to service connection. Connectors staged at
the street provide a tap point where the optical fiber cable can be accessed
when service is requested. Once service is required, a pre-connectorized
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fiber drop cable can be routed between the street and the residence to
complete the fiber circuit. The drop cable may be pre-connectorized with
connectors at both ends to provide rapid connection.
A new class of hardened fiber optic connectors speeds residential

connection in FTTP cabling networks. The connectors are strategically lo-
cated in the distribution network to facilitate service connection, main-
tenance, and reconfiguration of subscriber services as demands change
and grow over the life of the network. The hardened connectors protect
against extreme temperature, moisture, ultraviolet radiation, chemical ex-
posure, and other harsh conditions typically found in the outside plant. The
connectors provide a watertight seal and are typically installed in multiport
fiber terminals or closures located at the street. Because the seal is water-
tight, terminals and closures may be installed out of sight in below ground
hand-holes, or more immediately accessible in locations such as pedestals
and aerial installations. The connectors are also installed in the optical net-
work terminal (ONT) equipment located at the premises. The hardened
connector is mated to hardened adapters on the external surface of enclo-
sures so that connections can be completed without opening the enclo-
sure, saving significant time in completing the circuit and providing service.
Drop cables are connectorized in the factory with hardened connectors so
that a technician, who need not be an expert in fiber splicing, can install
the drop cable between the terminal and the home quickly. Extensions of
the technology include multifiber connectors for larger cables and connec-
torized terminals. Hardened connector technology allows deferral of hard-
ware and cables until required, and efficient, economic interconnection to
the residence once service is requested.
Evolution of connectors in the outside plant

Fiber optic connector technology has evolved at a rapid rate over the
last decade. Design improvements have allowed optical connectors to
keep pace with high performance needs in high-speed backbone net-
works and bandwidth requirements in enterprise and consumer markets.
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Limitations in connector technology and design available just a few years

ago only qualified them under light-duty loading typically found in an
indoor environment. These connectors were often excluded from use un-
der harsh outdoor conditions because of instability at temperature and
humidity extremes.
However, in recent years, extensive design improvements have allowed ex-

panded application of optical connector technology. In particular, advances
in precision plastic and ceramic components have improved performance
and repeatability of optical connectors. Progress in epoxy and polish pro-
cessing have resulted in extremely accurate ceramic endface geometries
and highly stable structures under temperature and humidity variation. Fur-
thermore, a wide range of process improvements have increased the overall
quality of connector products, allowing optical connectors to be pushed
further into the outdoor environment. Today, connectors such as the SC
ultra polish connector (UPC) or angle polish connector (APC) are designed
and tested to maintain reliable performance under extreme conditions.
But even standard connectors have limitations in standing up under rug-

ged mechanical stresses and continuous water immersion. These standard
connectors require housings and closures to seal out moisture and isolate
the connectors from rough handling in the outside plant. Enclosures form-
ing a secondary layer of protection are often costly and make access dif-
ficult, especially in aerial or below-ground applications where access is usu-
ally difficult.
Therefore, further innovations have been made to produce fiber optic con-
nectors that can stand up to the rigors of the outside plant environment.
Reliability is paramount when fiber cable assemblies are placed in (uncon-
trolled) outside plant environments closer to customers. While fiber optic
connectors and cable assemblies may represent a small fraction of the over-
all network cost, they continue to be a vital link in connecting the entire
network together. Hardened fiber optic connectors will continue to be the
focus of performance and reliability improvements.
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96 Access
Hardened connector system
Hardened Adapters
The hardened connector system consists of connectors, adapters, and drop

cable assemblies ruggedized to protect against outside plant environmental
factors. Because PON architecture provides services via a single fiber path to
the end customer, the hardened connector system is primarily designed in a
simplex configuration, containing a single fiber.
The hardened adapter is usually installed on the external surface of an en-

closure or ONT, so that service connection can be made without open-
ing the enclosure. O-rings and washers seal the adapter to the enclosure’s
bulkhead, preventing intrusion of moisture. Typically, the adapter features
a protective plug that seals the adapter until it is ready for use. When the
adapter port is to be connected for service, the protective plug is removed
and the hardened drop cable connected. The protective plug is tethered to
the adapter so it can be reused to protect the adapter in the event the drop
cable is removed.
Hardened Connectors
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The hardened connector and adapter are based on standard SC technol-

ogy and use high performance ceramic ferrules and sleeves as the basis for
mating fiber terminations. The hardened adapter contains an SC adapter as
the basis for coupling inside the adapter; the hardened connector contains
a ferrule-based SC inner connector for coupling inside the connector. Both
connector and adapter conform to industry standards including GR-326
and FOCIS specifications defining intermateability and connector geometry.
Basing the system on well-established high performance SC technology
provides secure connections while ensuring reliability and compatibility with
a wide range of SC connectors and adapters currently on the market.
The hardened connector is typically provided as part of a factory-connec-

torized drop cable assembly that is pre-tested and certified to meet per-
formance requirements. The hardened connector is sealed to the adapter
using O-rings as it is installed into the adapter. The hardened connector is
supplied with a protective cap that seals the connector and keeps the end-
face clean until it is ready for use.
Hardened drop cables
Hardened drop cable assemblies are typically provided from the factory
with hardened connectors on one or both ends. Pre-connectorized and pre-
tested drop cable assemblies facilitate rapid connection between the street
and the residence. Several different style drop cables have been developed
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98 Access
for use in this environment, including flat dielectric cable, figure 8 cable
with steel messenger and flat dielectric cable with 24 AWG toneable wire.
The flat dielectric cable provides an all-dielectric cable, eliminating potential
electrical hazards from being carried from the network to the residence.
This cable is particularly suited to an aerial plant application where lightning
hazards are commonplace. The figure 8 cable with steel messenger is also
well-suited to aerial installations because of the added structural strength
provided by the steel messenger. The figure 8 cable requires proper field
grounding of the metallic member in either aerial or below-ground drop
applications. The flat dielectric cable with 24 AWG toneable wire can be
used in applications where the cable is buried between the terminal and the
side of the residence. The 24 AWG wire provides a means for locating the
buried drop cable prior to digging in future construction activities.
All cables used with the hardened connector are tested and qualified to
GR-20 and all assemblies are tested and qualified to GR-3120. Hardened
cable assemblies are available in standard lengths from 60 to 2500 feet or
longer if required. Cable assemblies are available with one or both ends
connectorized and packaged in spools for easy pay out. Double ended
hardened drop cables are quickly installed by connecting at the street and
then at the premises. The drop cable’s excess slack is easily stored out of
sight on the ONT mounting bracket at the residence. To eliminate slack,
single ended connectorized cables may be connected to the terminal and
then spliced at the premises’ end.
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Hardened multiport service terminals (MST)
Hardened MSTs are located at the street outside the residence and used
to connect PON distribution cables and the rugged drop cable. A single
multifiber distribution cable containing four, six, eight or twelve fibers is
typically used as the input to the terminal. The multifiber cable is separated
inside the terminal into individual fibers, each of which is terminated on SC
connectors inside the enclosure. SC connectors are inserted into hardened
outdoor adapter ports inside the enclosure, with the connector accessible
via openings on the exterior surface of the enclosure. Input stub cables can
be configured in the factory with various lengths for flexible and efficient
field installation. MSTs can also be configured in the field by splicing preter-
minated pigtails and fan outs to the multifiber input cable and terminating
connectors on SC connectors and associated hardened adapters.
All MSTs are sealed to protect the breakout transition from multifiber
cable to individual rugged adapters. The seal may be a permanent bond
or designed with fasteners that allow easy re-entry for repair and mainte-
nance. The terminal seal is typically rated to survive direct submersion in the
field, for instance, to withstand a ten foot water head. The rugged terminal
can be mounted in a variety of different configurations, including aerial,
above and below grade. Below grade installations are the most severe, as
the terminal can be exposed to flooding, as well as freezing conditions. All
mounting options allow for efficient craft access to connections so that rug-
ged drop cables can be connected quickly upon service request.
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100 Access
Hardened multifiber connectors

The quick and easy connection practice provided by the hardened connec-
tor system saves time and installation cost. Due to the ease of mating the
hardened connectors, drop cable installation can be deferred until service
is requested. Technicians can quickly install hardened connectors and route
drop cable to the customer premises, and do not necessarily need to be
experts in fiber splicing or handling. This quick-connect approach and as-
sociated deferral of cabling links is attractive to service providers keen on
reducing network construction cost. So attractive in fact, that service pro-
viders are reviewing network construction plans to identify other parts of
the cabling network that can be deferred by deploying hardened connec-
tion solutions.
Often, the distribution network is designed in a tree and branch topology

where smaller fiber count cables branch off the larger main distribution
cables and are routed to terminal points in the network. Main distribution
cables typically contain as many as 144, 216, 432 or 864 fibers. Smaller
branch cables include four, six, eight and twelve-fiver units and connect
to MSTs with corresponding connection points for the number of target
residences nearby.
To serve this application, hardened connector technology has been ex-

tended to include multiple fibers within a single connector. The technology
employs the MT ferrule that aligns multiple fibers simultaneously, usually
as a linear array. To facilitate this application, MT technology has evolved
significantly during recent years.
The development of ultra-precise MT ferrules, manufactured from thermally

stable plastic materials, along with numerous advances in multifiber connec-
tor designs and processing techniques, have resulted in MT products that
are stable under temperature variations found in outdoor environments.
Furthermore, the ultra-high precision ferrules have resulted in performance
improvements that make them attractive for OSP network applications,
even with the variation experienced under extreme temperature changes.
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New hardened connectors have been developed based on the MT con-

nector technology to allow multiple fibers to be reliably connected in the
outdoor environment. Using the MT ferrule and connector as the basis,
the connector is placed in a watertight outer connector shell that seals out
moisture. As in the case of the simplex connector, the hardened multifi-
ber connector protects against all the hazards in the outside plant environ-
ment such as extreme temperature, moisture, freezing, ultraviolet radiation,
chemical exposure, etc. Early connector designs provide four, six, eight, or
twelve fibers to be connected using a single mated connector.
Hardened multifiber connectors allow distribution network terminals to

be quickly connected by pre-conditioning the cable with multifiber outlet
ports. The adjoining cable and associated MST can be deferred until service
is required. Moreover, by placing hardened multifiber connectors in the net-
work, the service provider can decide later if all of the fibers are to be used.
The newer hardened multifiber connectors will find additional application
throughout the FTTP network.
Designed and tested for reliability

Hardened outdoor connectors must be reliable in order to be read-
ily accepted as a critical link in the distribution network. The hard-
ened connectors and associated cable and terminal components must
stand up to harsh environments, maintain expected high performance
and achieve those design requirements over the anticipated life of the net-
work. A full qualification program for these connectors ensures a particular
design can achieve the desired reliability. Requirement document GR-3120,
“Generic Requirements for Hardened Fiber Optic Connectors,” fully defines
the testing regimen for hardened connectors. The GR-3120 is based on
GR-326, “Generic Requirements for Single Mode Connectors and Cable
Assemblies,” which defines testing regimens for standard SC (APC or PC)
connectors. GR-3120 builds on GR-326 to include additional requirements
for direct exposure of connectors to outdoor elements.
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102 Access
The qualification includes at least one test group of connectors and adapt-
ers that progresses through an extensive sequence of harsh tests that rep-
licate conditions encountered during the system’s service life. The test se-
quence includes:
• thermal aging
• thermal cycling
• humidity aging
• humidity condensation cycling
• post thermal cycling
Subsequently, the same group undergoes vibration and a full range of me-
chanical stress tests including flex, cable torsion, proof, and transmission
with applied load. These mechanical tests are typically conducted at both
ambient temperature and at temperature conditions typical for connector
handling in a service environment. Additional mechanical tests are also con-
ducted including impact and crush resistance to simulate normal incidental
forces the connector may experience. The same group is also tested for wa-
ter intrusion when subjected to a ten foot water submersion and stressed
mechanically while being submerged at the same depth. Additional tests
are conducted to establish that the hardened connector system can with-
stand cyclical freeze-thaw conditions when fully submerged. A variety of
optical monitoring tests are conducted to verify the ability of the connector
to not only withstand the rigors of the harsh testing environment, but to
also maintain solid insertion loss and reflection performance during and
after the extreme exposure.
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In addition to service life testing, reliability tests are performed to qualify

the longevity of the hardened connector system over time. Additional
groups are exposed to specific harsh conditions for extended periods of
time, including:
• extended thermal aging

• extended temperature cycling
• extended humidity aging
• extended chemical exposure
• extended ultra-violet radiation
• extended salt fog
• extended bacterial/fungus exposure
All these reliability tests are designed to examine the connector system’s
ability to sustain optical performance over the intended life of the design.
Designed for intermateability

Just as interface standards evolved for standard connectors such as SC
(APC or UPC) connectors, interface standards are evolving for hard-
ened connectors. These standards build on those already published in
GR-326 and FOCIS and connectors designed to those standards are used
as the basis for intermateability. For instance, definition for the endface
geometry of hardened connectors takes existing FOCIS standards as a
starting point. Interface standards for the hardened connector and adapter
housings enable connectors and adapters from different manufacturers to
be connected without impacting performance. A series of tests compare
connectors and adapters from two or more suppliers to achieve a true mea-
sure of intermateability. The testing includes mating connectors from one
supplier to adapters of another and vice versa. The cross-mated pairs are
subjected to a series of environmental tests that include temperature and
humidity variation, vibration, mechanical stress tests and a sealing test un-
der stressed conditions. Optical monitoring during the tests, ensures that
rugged connectors and adapters from the various suppliers can be used
together in the same service environment.
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104 Access
Summary
Increasingly, connector systems in outside plant applications support de-
ployment and service connection in FTTP networks. Rapid innovation has
delivered hardened systems that facilitate network drop connectorization.
Hardened connectors and adapters based on standard connector technol-
ogy provide additional protection that allows connector systems to with-
stand harsh outside plant conditions. Hardened connectorized drop cables
and fiber terminals establish services from the street to the customers’
premises. Innovation continues in the development of hardened multifiber
connectors that allow multiple fiber cables and terminals to be connected
quickly and efficiently. Hardened connector systems are tested and qualified
through extensive reliability test procedures that simulate the harsh condi-
tions anticipated over the products’ life. Long-term reliability tests provide
assurance that the high performance connectors will operate as expected
over the product’s intended life span. Intermateability tests provide further
assurance that connectors, adapters, terminals and cables from different
manufacturers can be interchanged in the same service environment with-
out compromising performance or reliability.
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Customer Premises
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Chapter 14
Multiple Solutions for Connecting Multiple Dwelling Units

(MDUs)
Abstract
Discussion of Fiber-to-the-Premises (FTTP) architectures seem generally to
focus on single-family-home developments. Increasingly, however, FTTP
network planning has grown to consider multiple dwelling units (MDUs),
such as apartments, condominiums, and townhomes. Some estimates in-
dicate that MDU structures may account for over one third of the targeted
FTTP subscriber base. These MDU installations require special consideration
for fiber cable interconnection to terminal equipment located at the prem-
ises. Connecting MDUs into the FTTP network requires an understanding of
the wide diversity of structures and conditions found throughout the coun-
try. MDU connection strategies may also vary considerably depending on
whether the structure already exists or is under construction/rehabilitation.
A variety of solutions are required to support the many different connec-
tion scenarios. All dwellings require a connection from the FTTP cabling
network. In some cases the connection may be via a feeder fiber directly
from the central office/headend to a splitter hub to the premises. In other
cases connections extend from distribution fibers directly from the fiber
distribution hub located in the network to a fiber terminal to the premises.
Depending on the type and size of the MDU, there may be a need for
extensive fiber cabling and connections within the structure. Solutions for
larger MDU structures may involve splitter hubs located inside the prem-
ises and then subtending riser and drop cable networks with intermediate
fiber terminals located strategically throughout the building. Key building
blocks include both indoor and outdoor fiber distribution hubs and indoor
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108 Customer Premises
and outdoor fiber distribution terminals. Additional drop cables, raceways

and outlets are needed to support complete interconnection in many of the
MDU environments.
Architecture
Some estimates indicate that more than one third of all U.S. households are
located in shared residential structures commonly referred to as multiple
dwelling units (MDUs). Furthermore demographic studies show that the
MDU environment is a lucrative and competitive market for providers of
broadband services. Each year, new construction continues to bring more
and more MDUs online. This target MDU market lies right in the heart of
FTTP network builds across the country. Connecting MDUs into the FTTP
network requires an understanding of the wide diversity of structures and
conditions that may be encountered.
Metro high-rise
In metropolitan areas high-rise dwellings including condominiums and
apartments are the norm rather than the exception. High-
rise residential dwellings present challenges and often
require special planning to assure that FTTP networks
can efficiently and reliably scale the heights involved
across multiple floors. These structures have typi-
cally been designed and optimized for vertical liv-
ing and as such have planned access for cabling
networks through the various floors and sections
of the building. Because of the large number of
living units in these buildings, they are typically
connected directly to serving FTTP equipment in
the central office/headend. The feeder cable ex-
tending from the central office/headend is routed to
the structure and connected to a fiber distribution hub in the
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basement. The FDH provides optical splitting and connection for the net-
work within the building. A cabling network of riser cables is distributed to
the various floors through designated pathways either inside or outside the
building. Riser cables are tapered as they traverse the vertical rise with seg-
ments of the cable dropped at each floor. Usually the riser cable is connect-
ed to a fiber distribution terminal (FDT) located at each floor. Drop cables
are installed into each living unit and then routed to the FDT corresponding
to that floor. Interconnection takes place when the customer in the living
unit requests service.
Mid-rise
The mid-rise buildings are a major class
of structures that include apartment and
condominium living units spread across
multiple floors. In many cases these are
older residential buildings constructed as
walk-ups and without provisions for new
cabling networks. The challenge for FTTP network
builders is to traverse this environment without incurring
major cost. The mid-rise, like the high-rise, is often connected directly to
the FTTP equipment in the central office/headend via a feeder cable routed
directly to the building. The feeder cable is routed directly to the basement
and terminated at an FDH that provides optical splitting and service connec-
tion for the entire building. The connection strategy for mid-rise includes
routing riser cables to every floor where FDTs provide interconnection
for drop cables. Drop cables are routed from the FDTs and connected to
wall plates in the living units. The fiber drop cables are sometimes routed
through hallways and protected with raceways or conduit. Mid-rise units
raise an important challenge in finding space to install terminals and hubs
and then overlaying riser and drop cables efficiently and aesthetically.
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Garden-style
A significant amount of new construc-
tion for residential apartments and con-
dominiums is occurring in garden-style
structures. These structures are typified
by two or three story buildings, often
with walk-up access and multiple living
units per floor. Often these structures
are not designed with the forethought that
cabling networks will be added at a later date
and as such garden-style structures present signifi-
cant challenges installing FTTP network cabling.
Garden-style structures tend to provide network interface between the

outside plant and drop cables either on the exterior surface or just inside
a building entrance closet. Often the FTTP network interface will be lo-
cated at the spot on the building where other utilities are positioned. Rout-
ing the drop cables from the living units to the network interface is rela-
tively simple in new construction, where fiber drop cables can be routed
through the framing structure before the walls are sealed. Drop cable in-
stallation techniques in new construction may include placing fiber drops
in conduits or directly into the wall. Alternatively, the new construction
scenario lends itself to installing micro-ducts initially and then later blow-
ing fiber into the living units as service is requested. Installing fibers into
existing units is much more difficult. Often overlay installation involves rout-
ing drops through the attic, basement or around the exterior of the struc-
ture. These installations can be costly and time consuming. New cables have
been developed such as indoor/outdoor cable to give the installer more
flexibility in routing drops around and through existing structures. A vari-
ety of FDTs is also available to provide flexible options for connecting drop
cables to the plant at the network interface. One typical FDT provides stan-
dard connector interface on the exterior surface. The FDT may be supplied
preterminated with standard connectors and pigtails to facilitate splicing to
indoor/outdoor drop cables. Alternatively, external FDTs may be configured
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with hardened connectors to interface with hardened outdoor drop cables

directly. Finally, FDTs may be configured as indoor enclosures with standard
connectors and located immediately inside the building entrance to inter-
face with drop cables routed inside the building.
Horizontal style
A significant majority of new condominiums and town homes are con-
structed using a horizontal layout that very closely resembles the arrange-
ment of single family homes. Because of this resemblance, the FTTP connec-
tor scheme is often identical.
Usually the network inter-
face will be an FDT located
on the exterior surface of
the structure. FTTP distri-
bution fibers are allocated
downstream from the FDH to a
particular MDU structure. An FDT located
on the exterior surface of the structure may be
outfitted with either hardened on non-hardened connectors. Hardened
connectors are used when hardened fiber drops are routed along a path
outside the structure and then connected directly to the ONT on the side of
the individual dwelling. Alternatively, non-hardened indoor cabling may be
routed via internal pathways from the FDT to ONT equipment in each unit.
Key building blocks

The key building blocks for MDU connectivity include fiber distribution
hubs, fiber distribution terminals, riser cable, drop cable, raceways, and
wall plates.
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Outdoor fiber distribution hub

The outdoor FDH enclosure provides connections between fiber optic ca-
bles and passive optical splitters in the outside plant (OSP) environment.
FDH enclosures are available in a range of sizes for terminating distribu-
tion cables, e.g. 144, 216, 288, 432, 576, 864 , 1152, etc. The enclosures
utilize standard SC angled polish (APC) or ultra-polish (UPC) connectors to
interconnect feeder and distribution cables via 1x32 optical splitters and
connectors. The FDH enclosure is placed strategically in the FTTP network
to facilitate service connection specified for a particular fiber serving area
that may include MDU structures. These enclosures are either pole or pad
mounted and provide environmental and mechanical protection for cables,
splices, connectors and passive optical splitters. The FDH is constructed
from heavy gauge aluminum and provides the necessary protection against
rain, wind, dust, rodents, and other environmental contaminants. At the
same time, it remains lightweight for easy installation, and breathable to
prevent accumulation of moisture in the
unit. The aluminum construction with
heavy powder coat finish also provides
for corrosion resistance. The enclosure is
accessible through secure doors that are
locked with a standard tool or padlock.
All FDH enclosures are designed for ease
of craft access and maintenance to en-
sure trouble free operation over time.
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Indoor fiber distribution hub

The indoor FDH is designed to organize
and administer fiber optic cables and pas-
sive optical splitters in an inside plant envi-
ronment typically found in an MDU closet
or basement. These enclosures are used to
connect feeder and distribution cables via
optical splitters in an FTTP network appli-
cation. The indoor FDH product provides a
vital cross-connect/interconnect interface for
optical transmission signals at the MDU. The
enclosure provides mechanical protection for
cables, splices, connectors, and passive opti-
cal splitters. In addition, the indoor FDH is
designed to accommodate a range of fiber counts and support factory in-
stallation of pigtails, fanouts, and splitters. The enclosures are available in a
range of sizes (72-, 144-, 216-, 432-fibers, etc.) and are designed for front
access via a swing frame configuration so that they can be wall, rack, or
pedestal mounted.
Outdoor fiber distribution terminal

The outdoor FDTs are designed to terminate, splice, and interconnect fiber
optic cables in an outdoor environment. This terminal is usually configured
to support network interface to 12, 24, 48 etc. living units via standard SC
(APC or UPC) connectors. Alternatively,
the outdoor FDT may be configured
with hardened connectors to provide
an interface to hardened drops. The
FDT is mounted to the exterior surface
of an MDU structure to provide connec-
tion between the distribution cable and
drops routed to individual living units.
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The outdoor FDT is typically divided into sections with distribution cable
routed into one section and drop cable routed into the other. The cables
meet at a central connector field that includes termination for the distribu-
tion cable and parking for the drop cables. Each side of the cabinet may
be configured with splice trays for splicing the cable or the connector pig-
tails. The outdoor FDT may be preterminated on the distribution side with
outside plant cable stubs so that the unit is quickly connected to the plant.
The outdoor FDT may be pre-wired with pigtails on the drop side so that
individual drops routed into the unit can be spliced to the connectorized
pigtails. The unit accommodates a variety of OSP cable types via sealed
grommet entry. Cables are secured with standard grip clamps to provide the
required pull out strength. The enclosure provides grounding for metallic
members and for the cabinet.
Indoor fiber distribution terminal

The indoor FDT provides connection between fiber cables within a building
environment. One typical application may be as a primary network interface
(as an alternative to outdoor FDT) inside the building. Another typical appli-
cation is to support a tapered fiber distribution network within the building
where FDTs are installed on the various floors. The indoor FDT utilizes a rug-
ged design that effectively isolates the splicing and cable termination from
the interconnection to the drop cables. Separating the cable splicing and
drop cable termination into separate areas provides a space efficient and
craft friendly interface unit. The
indoor FDT provides easy access to
all connections. The indoor FDT en-
closure provides standard SC con-
nections (APC or UPC) and may be
equipped with parking for locating
the staging drops prior to deploy-
ment. The indoor FDT products are
designed to splice and terminate
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fibers in a range of sizes including 6, 12, 24, and 48 fibers. The indoor FDT
enclosures are for indoor wall mount applications and provide complete ac-
cess for maintenance and service provisioning. Secure doors are locked with
a standard can wrench tool and may optionally be secured with a standard
pad-lock to provide security for fiber connections within the building.
Indoor drop cables

Hardened high performance indoor drop cables connect premises equip-
ment and outside plant cabling systems in most MDU applications. These
cables are typically routed from an FDT (indoor or outdoor) to each indi-
vidual living unit. These drop cables meet standards set for indoor riser,
plenum, or indoor/outdoor application; the appropriate cable is selected
for the application. The indoor fiber drop cables
are available in a variety of lengths with high per-
formance SC connectors (APC or UPC) terminated
on one or both ends. Fiber drop cables are certi-
fied to Telcordia GR-326 and are
typically available in standard
lengths. All fiber drops are pack-
aged on convenient reels so that
field deployment can be com-
pleted quickly and efficiently.
Outdoor hardened drop cables

Some MDU configurations such as a horizontal outdoor cabling require
hardened drops for routing around the exterior of the building. These drops
are often buried in the front or back yard of the structure. Hardened optical
connectors are used to connect FDTs typically located at the street or on the
side of the dwelling with ONTs located at the premises. The hardened fiber
drop is typically terminated with a hardened outdoor connector on one or
both ends and facilitates rapid service connection. The hardened connector
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and associated hardened

drop cable assemblies pro-
vide a reliable interface for
fiber drop cables in the
outside plant environment.
The hardened optical con-
nector is ruggedized to
protect against extreme
temperature, moisture,
UV, chemical exposure,
and other harsh condi-
tions typically found in the
outside plant. The hardened connector is usually provided as part of a drop
cable assembly and the connector is sealed using O-Rings as it is installed
into a hardened adapter. The hardened connector is also normally supplied
with a protective cap that seals the connector and keeps the end-face clean
until it is ready for use. Upon installation, the protective cap is removed and
the drop cable can be connected to the hardened adapter. Outdoor fiber
drop cables are available in dielectric flat, flat with toneable wire, and in
Figure 8 configurations and with connectors on one end or both ends.
Drop cable installation

A wide range of cabling installation techniques may be used to route indoor
drop cabling. Typical drop cables may be installed in raceway configured
along the ceiling of the MDU hallway. An extension of the raceway may be
used to cover existing cabling such as voice or CATV wiring. The raceway
system may be provided with a decorative cover to provide an installation
that appears like crown molding. Drop cable installation can be installed in
overlay configurations.
In some new construction or during renovations alternate techniques may

be considered for drop cable installation. For instance, drop cables may be
installed along with conduit to provide a protective path from the FDT all the
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way to the living unit. The advantage to installing conduit is that fibers can
be installed at any time after the conduit and a fiber cable can be replaced if
needed. Another alternative is to utilize blown fiber techniques that involve
initially installing micro-duct and then returning at a later date to blow fiber
drops from the FDT into the living unit. Drop cable installation tends to be
labor intensive and therefore individual building conditions must be taken
into consideration when determining the most efficient, cost-effective drop
cable installation technique.
Summary
Fiber-to-the-Premises networks increasingly include multiple dwelling units
(MDUs) such as apartments, condominiums and townhouses as part of
the network build. MDU installations require special consideration for fiber
cable interconnection to terminal equipment located at the premises. Con-
necting MDUs into the FTTP network requires an understanding of the wide
diversity of structures such as high-rise, mid-rise, garden-style, and horizon-
tal building layouts. Once the structure is fully understood, the connectivity
plan can be developed and optimized for the structure. MDU connection
strategies may also vary considerably depending on whether the structure
already exists, is under construction, or is being renovated. A variety of
solutions are required to support the many different connection scenarios.
Depending on the type and size of the MDU, there may be a need for
extensive fiber cabling and connections within the structure or on the ex-
terior surface of the structure. Once the architecture is specified, a variety
of building blocks are available to support MDU connectivity. Key build-
ing blocks include indoor and outdoor configurations of fiber distribution
hubs and terminals, drop cables, and miscellaneous raceway and wall plate
hardware. These connectivity components are designed to provide multiple
solutions for connecting MDU structures.
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Chapter 15
Deploying Reduced Bend Radius Fiber in MDU Environments
Reduced bend radius fiber products are making their presence felt across
the fiber-optic telecommunication industry. The main benefit of these new
fibers is their ability to bend more tightly than their traditional counter-
parts with no discernible increase in attenuation. This characteristic enables
easier fiber installation, particularly inside structures, promising many
new applications for fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) architectures. These fibers
will likely have the most dramatic affect within the multiple dwelling unit
(MDU) environments.
MDUs pose significant challenges to network installers who must run fiber
through multiple living units on multiple floors. The fiber cable must be
deployed along walls and through microducts where there is much more
sensitivity to the issue of aesthetics. For example, a common practice is to
hide the fiber behind crown moldings and through existing duct work to
keep it out of sight. Obviously, the bend radius of any fiber is pushed to
the limit in these types of applications. This makes the promise of reduced
bend radius fiber extremely welcome among service providers eyeing the
revenue-generating MDU environment.
Their rapid emergence is also creating many misconceptions about properly

handling and managing these fibers, sometimes referred to as “bend resis-
tant” or “bend insensitive.” As much as the installer might like to believe
the hype that touts reduced bend radius fiber as being virtually indestruc-
tible, nothing could be further from the truth. Despite their improved bend
radius characteristics, these fibers require the same careful handling, tem-
perature considerations, and good routing practices as traditional fibers.
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Service providers simply cannot afford the potential network issues that
may result from a technician or installer who decides that fiber cable man-
agement is no longer a necessity. Like all fiber, reduced bend radius fibers
still have a glass core that can be damaged or broken, resulting in degrada-
tion or complete loss of services.
Before going any further, it should be noted that reduced bend radius fi-
bers do not offer improvements in attenuation. Rather, they enable tighter
bends without causing any noticeable additional attenuation. In fact, on
a long straight fiber run, there is no difference between the performance
of reduced bend radius fiber and traditional fibers used for the same ap-
plication. Believing that reduced bend radius fiber is the end-all solution is
inaccurate since many additional factors determine the overall optical per-
formance of a fiber link, even in the MDU environment.
Focusing on MDUs
In the U.S., it is estimated that more than one third of all households reside in
shared residential structures. This creates a very lucrative MDU market and a
very competitive environment for broadband service providers. Whether the
MDU is a high rise structure or a garden style apartment complex, each type
presents its own unique challenges for bringing fiber into each individual
residence. For this paper, ADC will concentrate on how new reduced bend
radius fibers will affect FTTP in various MDU types and configurations.
The biggest concern is in educating installers and technicians that reduced

bend radius fibers, though enabling tighter bends, still have limitations
and are prone to damage caused by improper handling and routing. They
must realize that bend radius protection, along with other fiber cable man-
agement practices, is still a requirement. The only difference is an improved
bend radius capability, which cannot be mistaken for an unlimited bend
radius capability.
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Mechanical limitations still exist in reduced bend radius fibers, and installers
must know the exact limitations of the fiber they are deploying to protect
the structural integrity of the glass. In an MDU environment, this is particu-
larly significant since the fiber is typically routed inconspicuously around
many twists and turns throughout the structure. In fact, the requirement
to hide fiber behind crown moldings, baseboards, and other areas presents
additional concerns—such as the use of nails and staples within close prox-
imity of the fiber. Inadvertently pinching cables between walls and mold-
ings, as well as the use of nails and staples, makes good fiber cable man-
agement critical in MDUs.
As previously stated, MDUs come in all shapes and sizes—each with their
own issues and concerns for FTTP deployment. For example, fiber installa-
tion in high-rise and mid-rise apartments usually requires longer cable runs
from the basement to multiple floors. These longer hauls can create issues
of tensile strength due to the weight of the cable itself across long distanc-
es. As fiber runs stretch through 30 floors or more, the number of bends
and angles also increases, creating more possibilities for violating the bend
capabilities of even reduced bend radius fibers.
Like higher-rise apartments, garden style and horizontal MDUs must also
handle multiple bends and angles during the fiber routing process. Again,
the fiber must be safely and efficiently hidden from view. However, these
lower level structures have their own unique requirements. For example,
the transition between outdoor wall boxes that manage the drop cables
to the inside of the building leaves fiber cables exposed to the affects of
changing weather and temperature variations.
It is typical to have spans of more than 100 feet of fiber that are exposed
to outside temperature extremes. These temperature variations can impact
cable jacket materials and, in turn, the glass inside. For instance, an attic in
Texas can become extremely hot, while a basement in Maine may become
extremely cold. Such temperature fluctuations will cause the expansion and
contraction of fiber jackets and connector materials, potentially damaging
the glass fibers inside.
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Other outdoor issues include water intrusion that, over time, will damage
the fiber. Again, installers and technicians must be aware that aggressive
and haphazard transitions from outdoor to indoor environments must be
replaced by carefully planned and implemented processes. The objective is
to always ensure there are no exposed fibers and that proper bend radius
protection is in place.
Managing MDU fibers

Even with new reduced bend radius fibers in MDUs, good cable manage-
ment techniques are still critically important. Of the four elements of good
fiber cable management—bend radius protection, cable routing paths,
accessibility, and physical protection—only bend radius protection is im-
proved by the new types of fiber. However, it is not entirely eliminated.
The other elements are unchanged and their importance is multiplied in
MDU environments.
Cable and connector access must be as simplified as possible to enable

technicians to quickly identify and access particular connections for recon-
figuration and maintenance tasks. Nowhere is proper cable routing more
important and complex than in an MDU application, particularly in new
brownfield situations where fiber cable must be deployed rapidly and un-
obtrusively. Clear, intuitive cable routing paths are essential for proper fiber
management in any MDU. As higher densities become the norm, vague
routing paths will add congestion, strand capacity, and consume valu-
able space.
Finally, physical protection of any fiber cable is absolutely essential to its

long-term performance—and reduced bend radius fibers are no exception.
Every fiber has physical limitations imposed by its cladding and cover mate-
rials. However, the point is to realize that inside these protective materials,
the core is still glass. In MDU deployments, fiber is subject to an array of
external pressures, pinching, or mishandling that can result in fractures and
even breaks. Physical protection of all fiber should be paramount to the
installer and technician for life-long performance and reliability.
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The MDU bottom line

Successful optical fiber deployment in MDU applications is measured in
many ways. The goals include achieving maximum system uptime, mini-
mum operating costs, lower material costs, and no lost revenue due to out-
ages. With these goals in mind, it is relatively simple to see the importance
of a complete cable management system.
The industry has welcomed the new reduced bend radius fibers as a major
accomplishment for rapidly “fibering up” MDUs, But as with many new
technologies, care must be taken to understand that with significant advan-
tage usually comes some type of quality assurance. In the case of reduced
bend radius fiber, the ability to bend more tightly around sharp corners is a
huge step forward for the MDU environment. But it should never lessen the
installer’s concern for ensuring good cable management practices that will
maximize the network’s future capabilities.
Good cable management, in both new and existing MDU structures, will
ensure easy connector access, simple routing paths, simpler network recon-
figurations, faster troubleshooting, and improved maintenance capabilities.
Reduced bend radius fiber is a significant catalyst for getting fiber into more
MDUs, but it is just one aspect of a complete strategy of efficient, future-
proofed network management.
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The Technician
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Chapter 16
Properly Training Next-Generation Technicians on

Next-Generation Products
Technicians require thorough training on four key aspects of cable man-

agement: bend radius protection, proper connector handling, cable rout-
ing paths, and physical protection. Teaching technicians to ensure all fiber
bends are protected by using the optical frame’s management properly,
will ensure long-term optical performance and the ability to support future
high-speed services.
Technicians must also be aware of physical safety issues resulting from high-
power lasers used in the network. Connectors should never point directly
at technicians. Since lasers are infrared, it’s important to take precautions
when exposure is possible. Designs that have connector ports pointing side-
to-side rather than straight out of the panel, or that utilize some sort of
shutter system, can increase eye protection for technicians, regardless of
their level of training or awareness.
Technicians in the field

Technicians with responsibilities for the outside plant portions of the net-
work are required to abide by similar practices, standards, and procedures
carried over from the CO (see Chapter 1 for a discussion of key principles
to be followed in the central office). Since fiber distribution hubs (FDHs) are
designed with components similar to CO optical distribution frames, the
same cleaning and fiber management practices should be employed. As
previously stated, since many technicians have only worked in the OSP and
never in CO, many common CO practices are new to them, particularly in
transitioning from copper to fiber.
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128 The Technician
Most carriers today are migrating to a connectorized FDH as opposed to

straight spliced cabinets. Better loss characteristics achieved by new con-
nector and splitter products have helped achieve acceptable loss budgets
while adding the flexibility allowed through a connectorized architecture.
In terms of technician skill sets, connectorized inputs are much more cost-
effective since splice technicians are not required and connections can be
made without the need for a splicer.
Additionally, easier test access is enabled at the FDH. For example, a tech-
nician can simply unplug the connector at the test point, connect the test
equipment, conduct the appropriate test procedure, and then replug the
connector back into the original port when finished. Again, it’s worth reem-
phasizing that cleanliness of the connectors remains paramount. ADC al-
ways recommends cleaning both connectors on the distribution interface—
on the distribution panel and at the splitter output.
Also, proper patch cord routing from the splitter parking lot to the
distribution port is important to avoid bend radius loss issues. Fiber patch
cord routing is critical and instructions should be clear, concise and properly
followed by each technician assigned to work on a given enclosure.
Figures 1 and 2 show the difference between poor fiber routing and
proper fiber routing. It’s easy to see which cabinet will enable future techni-
cians to locate and manipulate specific fibers when turning up service or
reconfiguring the cabinet. Again, whether it’s a case of untrained techni-
cians or simple carelessness, once the first technician gets sloppy and ig-
nores proper procedures, chances are good the next technician will follow
that lead.
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Figure 1. Poor Fiber Routing Figure 2. Correct Fiber Routing
Close up shows Close up of

fibers improperly same area
crossing over shows fibers
one another, routed correctly.
causing a
tangled mess.
Close up shows Close up of same

fibers improperly area shows fibers
crossing over routed correctly.
one another,
causing a
tangled mess.
Poor Cable Routing Correct Cable Routing
Even though the first technician in the cabinet may not see proper fiber
routing as an important issue since there are only a few customers served
by the cabinet, as more customers are added, the proper routing technique
takes on greater importance. In fact, training technicians to adhere to prop-
er routing procedures early will make new connections much easier and
mitigate the potential for future network problems.
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130 The Technician
Test equipment familiarity

Finally, technicians require proper training on test equipment. Although
most technicians receive training on the optical time domain reflectometer
(OTDR) and know how to use the machine, they may not be sufficiently
educated on evaluating exactly what they are looking at when viewing the
trace. There is often a fine line between connecting or operating the equip-
ment and evaluating the data.
For instance, a technician may test from Point A to Point B across half a mile
of cable with several splices and connection ports. A normal loss from a par-
ticular connection point may lead a less-trained technician to the conclusion
that a problem exists at that point in the network. A better trained techni-
cian would know exactly where the connection point should be located
and realize a certain amount of loss is expected—saving time and effort by
preventing an unwarranted truck roll.
Experienced technicians will also make comparisons to initial testing traces

documented during the first tests on a particular link. The original test data
is typically saved in a database to enable such comparisons when loss is
detected. To the trained technician, these initial test traces are a valuable
reference tool for future troubleshooting and maintenance decisions.
Carriers must make it standard procedure to correctly train all their tech-
nicians, from the CO to the OSP, in proper craft practices. If every tech-
nician employs the same proper technique in connector cleanliness, test
procedures, fiber routing/management, record keeping, and overall fi-
ber handling, operational costs can be drastically reduced over the life of
the network.
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Chapter 17
The Technician’s Perspective on Reduced Bend Radius Fiber
Some monumental breakthroughs have taken place in optical fiber cables

and their ability to bend around sharp corners without increasing attenu-
ation—but today’s technicians and installers may be receiving mixed mes-
sages. This paper will highlight the potential issues surrounding these new
fibers as they apply to the people who handle and install the cables in fiber-
to-the-premise (FTTP) applications.
The possibility of perceiving these new fibers as being virtually indestruc-

tible is a dangerous misperception. Technicians must be acutely aware that
reduced bend radius fibers are, in the end, still glass and still subject to the
same forces that have traditionally caused increased attenuation problems
and failure in optical links. ADC’s intent is to educate technicians and install-
ers about the true attributes of reduced bend radius fibers while reinforcing
the idea that proper fiber cable management techniques still apply.
Bend-proof isn’t break-proof

Technicians should be aware that the new breed of reduced bend radi-
us fibers can reduce minimum bend radius requirements significantly,
but they can also still become damaged or even broken if mishandled or
stressed beyond their limitations. The fibers are designed to reduce the
minimum bend radius from the traditional 10 times the outside diameter of
the jacketed cable (about 38 mm) to as low as 5 mm with negligible
added attenuation.
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132 The Technician
Applications for reduced bend radius fiber began in the 1990s with special-
ized use in optical subassemblies and dense wavelength division multiplex-
ing (DWDM) systems, including oceanic repeaters where reduced space is
a critical issue. As WDM installations gain traction in access segments of
optical networks, such as new WDM passive optical networks (WDM-PON),
these new fibers are gaining even more momentum.
With the evolution of cable structures that provide better physical protec-
tion for the internal fibers, reduced bend radius fibers are exiting the labo-
ratory and manufacturing environment and moving towards central office
(CO), outside plant (OSP), headend, and premise locations. This migration
requires that installers and technicians be trained in the actual limitations
of these fibers, as well as the continued importance of fiber cable manage-
ment practices in these new environments.
Beyond the hype

With the ambitious marketing campaigns for new reduced bend radius fiber
products, installers and technicians may be led to believe these fibers are
impervious to the forces that increase attenuation or actually damage glass
fibers. Even the names of the fibers can be quite misleading—bend insensi-
tive, bend resistant, bend optimized—and technicians could easily make
false assumptions about durability and performance capabilities. These as-
sumptions could have a serious impact on the long-term performance of
an access network.
Bending fiber beyond traditional limits should never be construed as mean-

ing the fiber is virtually indestructible. Nothing could be further from the
truth. Although improvements to bend radius and physical protection are
beneficial, the glass within is still subject to fracturing and even breaking
with improper handling and a variety of outside forces. Still, some advances
have been made in cable structures and designs that actually provide a
measure of built-in bend limit protection—but glass is still glass.
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The excitement surrounding reduced bend radius fibers is not about their
indestructibility, but rather the potential they provide in making installa-
tions much easier, particularly in terms of routing cables inside structures.
The applications for multiple dwelling units (MDUs) are quickly catching on.
MDUs typically require tighter turns and the need to conceal the fiber cable
between rooms and around sharp corners. Careful planning will ensure the
fiber still adheres to fiber cable management techniques for connecting,
terminating, routing, splicing, storing, and handling reduced bend radius
fiber cables.
With that in mind, ADC believes it is still vital for technicians and installers
to continue ensuring that all four elements of good fiber cable manage-
ment are part of the installation plan. These elements include bend radius
protection, cable routing paths, accessibility, and physical protection. Let’s
review each element in light of the new capabilities touted by reduced bend
radius fiber.
Impact on the elements

Even though reduced bend radius fiber, along with improvements in
jacketing techniques, enables tighter bends without attenuation penal-
ties, bend radius protection is still a viable element of a complete fiber
cable management system. Technicians must still give consideration to a
minimum bend radius, even though it may not be as stringent. Proper slack
storage is also necessary to prevent potential problems on frames and along
cable pathways.
Improper fiber cable routing continues to be a major cause of bend radius

violations. Installers and technicians must still be concerned with neatness
in order to promote rapid circuit routing, easier cable tracing, and less com-
plex reconfigurations. Cable routing that is left to the technician’s imagi-
nation leads to an inconsistent, difficult-to-manage network. By making
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134 The Technician
sure that fiber handlers are aware of good cable routing practices, service
providers will avoid congested chaos and ensure neatly-placed, easily acces-
sible, and well-defined routing paths.
These benefits will be even greater with reduced bend radius fibers. They
will enable technicians to actually put their hands into a fiber bundle along
the raceway to physically trace a particular fiber—a risky procedure with
traditional fiber. Thus, cable tracing procedures will be accomplished easier,
resulting in much faster reconfigurations. Still, any benefit provided by us-
ing reduced bend radius fiber cabling will be dependent upon how well the
cables were routed in the first place.
The third element of good fiber cable management is cable access—refer-

ring to the accessibility of installed fiber and connectors. Technicians cannot
assume that bending fibers to gain access is no longer a problem with re-
duced bend radius fiber. With higher fiber and connector densities dictated
by today’s broadband demands, the likelihood of accidentally removing a
wrong cable increases significantly. With fiber connections increasing from
50 to 500 in a single active equipment rack, proper management and ac-
cessibility issues are even more critical for technicians, and reduced bend
radius fiber will have little effect on mitigating these concerns.
Finally, the physical protection of the fiber is not diminished. Rather, all
brands and types of fiber are equally subject to outside forces that can
damage or break optical fibers. The ability to bend around corners does
not alleviate physical limitations of rough handling or damage from nails,
screws, staples, or external pressures. Even reduced bend radius fibers has
limitations to excessive bending, pinching, or binding. Therefore, techni-
cians should bear in mind that any fiber that traverses from one piece of
equipment to another must be physically protected.
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Skill or no skill
As service providers try to sort out the benefits of reduced bend radius fi-
ber, the question is raised regarding the ability to use less-skilled installation
technicians. Again, the belief that this fiber can be handled differently from
any other fiber is incorrect. An installer’s experience should be the para-
mount concern, particularly for the end user. Even though copper is rela-
tively simple to handle, few people would choose to have an inexperienced
technician install it in their home or office. Experienced technicians who are
intimately familiar with building codes, standards, and specifications will
always be preferred—and it should be no different with fiber, regardless of
what type is being installed.
In the end, reduced bend radius fibers offer benefits and improvements
for FTTP deployments, but with each improvement there is a responsibility
to ensure technicians are also aware of any limitations. Insisting on proven
fiber cable management techniques is the optimal method for protecting
the network and enabling its long-term viability. This makes even more
sense in light of the increased fiber densities that loom ahead with broad-
cast applications.
Continually educating fiber installers and technicians will help them remain
focused on the importance of good fiber cable management practices
while allowing long-term performance, efficiency, flexibility, and reliability
of optical access networks. ADC believes that service providers have a re-
sponsibility to make sure every technician is acutely aware of the capabilities
and limitations of the fiber products placed into their hands. It all begins
with making a conscious decision to treat all fiber—including reduced bend
radius fiber—as though it were made of glass.
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Glossary of Terms
Below is a glossary of terms that are frequently used within the PON envi-
ronment. It contains many of the terms also associated with various parts of
the Access Network of which PON is one type.
Access Network
The method, time, circuit, or facility used to enter the network. The ser-
vice provided by local exchange carriers or alternate access providers, which
connect an interexchange carrier with its customers. The Access Network
today is predominantly passive twisted pair copper wiring.
ADM
Add/Drop Multiplexer capable of extracting or inserting lower-bit-rate sig-
nal from a higher-bit-rate multiplexed signal without completely demulti-
plexing the signal.
ADSL
Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line transmits data asymmetrically meaning
the bandwidth usage is much higher in one direction than the other. Typical
ADSL applications transmit 8 Mbps downstream and 768 Kbps upstream,
depending on the length of the local twisted pair loop. This is particularly
beneficial for residential Internet access, remote access and video on de-
mand because downstream usage far exceeds upstream usage.
APC
Acronym for Angle Polished Connectors
APON
An Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM) based Passive Optical Network
(PON).
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138 Glossary
ATM
Asynchronous Transfer Mode is a connection-oriented service that seg-
ments data into a succession of small units called cells. Data transmitted
from multiple sources is segmented into cells by the ATM network device,
and the cells are then interleaved onto a single transmission media. It is
asynchronous in the sense that the recurrence of cells depends upon the
required or instantaneous bit rate.
ATS
Advanced Termination System refers to the ADC cabling system that offers
a cost-effective approach to placing fiber network OSP distribution cabling.
With the TAP system, distribution and drop cable distances are pre-mea-
sured at the installation site and customized assemblies are built in the fac-
tory. The entire solution is then packaged on reels and delivered for rapid
deployment. Each piece is pre-connectorized at the access points, requiring
splicing only at the end of the distribution run.
Attenuation
The decrease in power of a signal, light beam or lightwave, either abso-
lutely or as a fraction of a reference value.
Backbone
The part of a network used as the primary path for transporting traffic
between network segments. A high-speed line—or series of connections—
that forms a major pathway within a network.
Bandwidth
The throughput, or ability to move information through or from a device,
system, or subsystem, usually measured in quantities of data per second. A
measure of the information-carrying capacity of a communications channel;
range of usable frequencies that can be carried by a system, corresponding
to the difference between the lowest and highest frequency signal that can
be carried by the channel.
BLEC
Building Local Exchange Carrier
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B-PON
Broadband Passive Optical Network (PON)
CAPEX – Capital Expenditure

Expenditures used by a company to acquire or upgrade physical assets such
as equipment, property, or industrial buildings. In accounting, a capital ex-
penditure is added to an asset account (i.e. capitalized), thus increasing the
asset‘s basis.
Cascaded Architecture
The cascaded architecture approach is normally configured with a 1x4 split-
ter residing in the OSP enclosure, usually an FDT, and is connected directly
to an OLT in the CO. Each of the four fibers leaving the 1x4 splitter is routed
to an access terminal housing another splitter, either a 1x4 or 1x8. Optimal-
ly, there would eventually be 32 fibers reaching the ONTs of 32 homes.
CATV
CATV (originally “community antenna television,” now often “community
access television“) is more commonly known as “cable TV.“ In addition to
bringing television programs to those millions of people throughout the
world who are connected to a community antenna, cable TV is an increas-
ingly popular way to interact with the World Wide Web and other new
forms of multimedia information and entertainment services.
Cell
A unit of transmission in ATM. A fixed-size frame consisting of a 5-octet
header and a 48-octet payload.
Cell Delay Variation (CDV)

CDV is a component of cell transfer delay, induced by buffering and cell
scheduling. Peak-to-peak CDV is a QoS delay parameter associated with
CBR and VBR services. The peak-to-peak CDV is the (1-a) quintile of the
CTD) minus the fixed CTD that could be experienced by any delivered cell
on a connection during the entire connection holding time. The parameter
“a” is the probability of a cell arriving late.
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140 Glossary
Centralized Architecture
The centralized architecture approach typically uses a 1x32 splitter in an
OSP enclosure, such as an FDT. In the case of a 1x32 splitter, each device is
connected to an OLT in the CO. The 32 split fibers are routed directly from
the optical splitters through distribution panels, splice points and/or access
point connectors to the ONTs at 32 homes. This is the approach recom-
mended by ADC.
CLEC (Competitive Local Exchange Carrier)

In the United States, a CLEC is a company that competes with the al-
ready established local telephone business by providing its own network
and switching.
CO (Central Office)
The Central Office is where communications common carriers terminate
customer lines and locate switching equipment that interconnects those
lines. Also, considered a location where Switching, Transmission and Power
equipment that provide telephone service is centralized.
Coaxial Cable
A type of cable with a center conductor, an insulator, a solid or braided
shield around this insulator, and a tough jacket on the outside. The in-
ner insulation provides a constant distance between the center conductor
and the shielding, providing a superior quality signal over longer distances,
which gives higher bandwidth and better immunity to external interference
than simple twisted pair cable provides.
Connection Admission Control (CAC)

The set of actions taken by the network during the call setup phase (or dur-
ing call renegotiation phase) in order to determine whether a connection
request can be accepted or should be rejected (or whether a request for
re-allocation can be accomplished).
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Constant Bit Rate (CBR)

An ATM service category, which supports a constant or guaranteed rate to
transport services such as video or voice as well as circuit emulation that re-
quires rigorous timing control and performance parameters. QoS Parameter
typically used for voice traffic.
Core Network
See backbone
Coupler
Fused fiber device that optically splits and multiplexes signals. The couplers
used in the PON outside plant network are basically power splitter wherein
the power from the OLT is sent into different branches of the network to
feed the ONTs based upon their distance from the OLT. Another type of
coupler/splitter is used to separate the incoming and outgoing signals into
their respective wavelengths at the OLT and ONT. This is a WDM coupler/
splitter and is sometimes referred to as an optical multiplexer/deplexer.
CWDM
Coarse Wave Division Multiplexing
Cyclic Redundancy Check (CRC)

A mathematical algorithm commonly implemented as a cyclic shift register
that computes a check field for a block of data. The sender transmits this
check field along with the data so that the receiver can either detect errors,
and in some cases even correct errors.
Dark Fiber
Dark fiber refers to unused fiber optic cable. Often times companies lay
more lines than what‘s needed in order to curb costs of having to do it
again and again. The dark strands can be leased to individuals or other
companies who want to establish optical connections among their own
locations. In this case, the fiber is neither controlled by nor connected to the
phone company. Instead, the company or individual provides the necessary
components to make it functional.
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142 Glossary
DA – Distribution Area
A physical area defined by a number of homes, served by an FTTX
network.
DLC
Digital Loop Carrier
DS0
Digital Signal level Zero: One 64 Kb channel
DS1
Digital Signal level 1: 24 data channels (64 Kb) and 8 Kb for signaling; total
data rate of 1.544 Mbps
DS3
Digital Signal level 3: 28 DS1s encapsulated; 44.736 Mbps data rate.
DSL
Digital Subscriber Line is a method of providing high-speed data services
over the twisted pair copper wires traditionally used to provide POTS. Types
of DSL include ADSL (asymmetric digital subscriber line), HDSL (high data
rate digital subscriber line), SDSL (single line digital subscriber line), and
VDSL (very high data rate digital subscriber line).
DSLAM
Digital Subscriber Line Access Multiplexer Provides high-speed Internet or
Intranet access over traditional twisted-pair telephone wiring through the
use of ADSL technology. Provides simultaneous high speed digital data ac-
cess and POTS analog service over the same twisted-pair telephone line.
Can be installed in the CO or at and ISP adjacent to the CO
DWDM
Dense Wave Division Multiplexing is an optical multiplexing technique used
to increase the carrying capacity of a fiber network beyond what can cur-
rently be accomplished by time division multiplexing (TDM) techniques. Dif-
ferent wavelengths of light are used to transmit multiple streams of infor-
mation along a single fiber with minimal interference.
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DWS
DWS (Dynamic Wave Slicing™) extends WDM (Wave Division Multiplex-
ing) by “slicing“ each wavelength so that it can serve multiple end points
(customers). This provides a division of available bandwidth over a PON by
enabling a single fiber segment to allocate bandwidth to multiple custom-
ers according to their particular needs (from 1.7 to 100 Mbps in 1.7 Mbps
increments). This provides effective utilization of the total capacity of the
fiber optic media.
EPON
Ethernet based Passive Optical Network (PON)
Erbium-Doped Fiber Amplifier (EDFA)

A key enabling technology of DWDM, EDFAs allow the simultaneous am-
plification of multiple signals in the 15xx nanometer region, e.g. multiple
2.5 Gbps channels, in the optical domain. EDFAs drastically increase the
spacing required between regenerators, which are costly network elements
because they (1) require optical/electrical/optical conversion of a signal and
(2) operate on a single digital signal, e.g. a single SONET or SDH optical
signal. DWDM systems using EDFAs can increase regenerator spacing of
transmissions to 500-800 km at 2.5 Gbps. EDFAs are far less expensive than
regenerators and can typically be spaced 80-120 km apart at 2.5 Gbps,
depending on the quality of the fiber plant and the design goals of the
DWDM system.
Ethernet
A LAN used to connect devices within a single building or campus at speeds
up to 10 Mbps. Within the OSI model, Ethernet is defined at layer one
(physical) and layer two (data link). Based on Carrier Sense Multiple Access/
Collision Detection (CSMA/CD), Ethernet works by simply checking the wire
before sending data. Sometimes two stations send at precisely the same
time in which case a collision is detected and retransmission is attempted.
Ferrule
A component of fiber optic connection that holds a fiber in place and aids
in its alignment.
www.adc.com
144 Glossary
Ferrule Rotation
When the ferrule moves or rotates, air gaps develop between mated pair
fiber cores. This results in significantly degraded, if not interrupted services.
Fiber Access Terminal (FAT)

A fiber optic access point sometimes referred to as a network access point
(NAP). This may be in the form of an above ground pedestal, and aerial
enclosure or buried splice closure.
Fiber Distribution Hub (FDH)

Plays a key interface between feeder cables extending from the central of-
fice to distribution fibers routed to subscribers.
Fiber Optic Cable

A fiber optic cable consists of a bundle of glass threads, each of which is
capable of transmitting messages modulated onto light waves. Fiber optics
has several advantages over traditional metal communications lines: Fiber
optic cables have a much greater bandwidth than metal cables. This means
that they can carry more data. Fiber optic cables are less susceptible than
metal cables to interference. Fiber optic cables are much thinner and lighter
than metal wires. Data can be transmitted digitally (the natural form for
computer data) rather than analogically.
FTTB
Fiber to the Business/Basement
FTTC
Fiber to the Curb/Cabinet
FTTN
Fiber to the Node
FTTP
Fiber to the Premises
FTTX
Fiber to the “x“ c/b/h/k
www.adc.com
FSAN
Full Service Access Network is a forum for the worlds leading telecommuni-
cations services providers and equipment suppliers to work towards a com-
mon goal of truly broadband access networks. For more information visit
http://www.fsanet.net
Furcation Tubing
The material slipped over the splitter inputs and outputs, protecting the
fiber from physical damage and making connectorization possible.
Gigabit Ethernet
Another variation of the Ethernet protocol is capable of transmitting data
at one billion bits per second. This standard may eventually challenge ATM
and Frame Relay as the high-speed LAN topology of choice, but, at pres-
ent, ATM and Frame Relay still offer Quality of Service (QoS) guarantees
that Gigabit Ethernet cannot match. Gigabit Ethernet can use high-quality
copper wire at distances of less than 25 meters and optical fiber cabling for
greater distances.
Headend
MSO (CATV) telecommunications office
Header Error Control (HEC)

A 1-octet field in the ATM cell header containing a CRC checksum on the
cell header fields, HEC is capable of detecting multiple bit errors or correct-
ing single bit errors.
HDSL
Unlike ADSL, High Bit Rate Digital Subscriber Line (HDSL) is a symmetric
method of transmitting data at rates up to 1.5 Mbps in both directions. Be-
cause of the symmetric properties, the highest transmission rates can only
be supported at lengths of 15,000-foot distances of two or more twisted
pair lines.
ICP
Integrated Communications Provider (e.g. ATG)
www.adc.com
146 Glossary
Insertion Loss (IL)

The difference in the amount of power received before and after something
is inserted in the circuit or a call is connected.
Internet Protocol (IP)

A set of rules for how data gets transmitted from one place to another on
the Internet. IP is a connectionless protocol in which data gets broken down
into a number of small bundles known as packets, and each packet gets
transmitted to the destination separately, possibly along a different route
than other packets from the same message.
IOT
Intelligent Optical Terminal
ISP
Internet Service Provider
ITU
International Telecommunications Union
IAD
Integrated Access Device
Lambda (l)
Greek symbol used to signify wavelength.
Last Mile
The last mile is the local access network that extends from the Central Of-
fice (CO) to the end-user subscriber. Also called the local loop network, it
is traditionally copper-based and suffers from the bandwidth limitations of
that media.
Leased Line
A physical line that a single subscriber leases from a carrier, giving the sub-
scriber exclusive rights to the line‘s capacity.
www.adc.com
Line (SONET)
A transmission medium, together with the associated Line Terminating
Equipment (LTE), required to provide the means of transporting information
between two consecutive line terminating network elements, one of which
originates the line signal while the other terminates the line signal.
Macrobend
A larger cable bend that can be seen with the unaided eye and is often
reversible. As the macrobend occurs, the radius can become too small and
allow light to escape the core and enter the cladding.
Metro Network
A network spanning a geographical area greater than a LAN but less than a
WAN (Wide Area Network). IEEE 802.6 specifies the protocols and cabling
for a MAN.
MDU/MTU
Multiple Dwelling Unit/Multiple Tenant Unit is a building with more than
one residence or business.
Microbend
A small, microscopic bend that may be caused by the cabling process itself,
packaging, installation, or mechanical stress due to water in the cable dur-
ing repeated freeze and thaw cycles. External forces are also a source of
microbends
Mode Field Diameter (MFD)

The area across the core of the fiber the fills with light
MSC – Mobile Switching Center

A telephone exchange which provides circuit-switched calling, mobility
management, and GSM services to the mobile phones roaming within the
area that it serves. This means voice, data, and fax services, as well as SMS
and call divert.
MSO
Multiple Systems Operator (i.e., CATV company)
www.adc.com
148 Glossary
MST
Multi-Port Service Terminals are used in plug and play architectures.
Multi-mode Fiber
Optical fiber supporting propagation of multiple modes of light. Multimode
fibers have a larger core diameter than single mode fibers.
Multi-Cast
The ability of one network note to send identical data to a number of end-
points. (Usually associated with multicast video techniques where the source
will send a single stream and multiple end-points will accept the stream.)
Multiplex
A general concept that refers to combining independent sources of infor-
mation into a form that can be transmitted over a single communication
channel. Multiplexing can occur both in hardware (i.e., electrical signals can
be multiplexed) and in software (i.e., protocol software can accept mes-
sages sent by multiple application programs and send them over a single
network to different destinations).
NGDLC
Next Generation Digital Loop Carrier
OAN
Optical Access Networking
OAS
Optical Access Switch
OC-#
Short for Optical Carrier, used to specify the speed of fiber optic networks
conforming to the SONET standard. The table shows the speeds for com-
mon OC levels.
OC-1 = 51.85 Mbps
OC-3 = 155.52 Mbps
OC-12 = 622.08 Mbps
OC-24 = 1.244 Gbps
OC-48 = 2.488 Gbps
www.adc.com
ODF
Optical Distribution Frame
ODN
The Optical Distribution Network is the optical fiber access network usually
used to describe the PON Network. The ODN consists of but is not limited
to the optical fiber, optical distribution cabinets, splitters, and optical access
points.
ODSI
Optical Domain Service Interconnect is an open, informal initiative com-
prised of service providers and networking vendors. ODSI represents a co-
alition of networking professionals with a common interest in selecting,
applying and promoting the open interfaces and protocols that will allow
higher-layer service networks to effectively interoperate with the intelligent
optical network core.
OEM
Original Equipment Manufacturer
OLT
The optical line termination is the PON controller card or unit located at the
CO. The terminal at the subscriber’s end of the network is the ONT or opti-
cal network terminal. Several OLTs may be located in a single chassis. The
laser at the OLT is frequently a DFB (distributed-feedback laser) transmitting
at 1490 nm and is always on. Signals from the OLT tell the ONTs when to
send upstream traffic to it.
ONT
The optical network termination resides at the subscriber’s end of the PON.
It provides the interface between the network and the subscriber’s equip-
ment. Frequently the laser used at the ONT is a Fabry Perot type and oper-
ates at 1310 nm and only transmits when given permission by the OLT.
www.adc.com
150 Glossary
Operations Administration and Maintenance (OAM)

A group of network management functions that provide network fault indi-
cations, performance information, and data and diagnosis functions.
OPEX – Operational Expenditure

An expenditure for the purpose of operating a network. Labor expenses are
typically the largest component of OPEX.
OTDR – Optical Time Domain Reflectometer

A test and measurement device often used to check the accuracy of fusion
splices and the location of fiber optic damage.
OSP – Outside Plant

The part of the telephone system that is physically located outside of tele-
phone company buildings.
Path (SONET)
A path at a given bit rate is a logical connection between the point at which
a standard frame format for the signal is assembled, and the point at which
the standard frame format for the signal is disassembled.
Payload
The data in an ATM cell or IP packets that subscribers want to access (the
message, conversation, file, etc.). The term payload is used to distinguish
the subscriber‘s data from the “overhead,“ which is data in an ATM cell or
IP packet that network equipment tacks on to the payload to help guide its
transmission across the network.
PBX
Private Branch Exchange
www.adc.com
PON
A Passive Optical Network (PON) is made up of fiber optic cabling and
passive splitters and couplers that distribute an optical signal through a
branched “tree“ topology to connectors that terminate each fiber seg-
ment. Compared to other access technologies, PON eliminates much of the
installation, maintenance, and management expenses needed to connect
to customer premises. Per the FSAN specifications PON is a point to multi-
point system with one OLT at the central office servicing up to 32 ONTs. The
system is single fiber with downstream traffic sent in the 1550 nm wave-
length window and upstream traffic being sent in the 1310 wavelength
window. This is an example of bidirectional transmission on a single fiber.
Sometimes the PON is called B-PON, which indicates it is a Broadband PON.
Also it can be an APON, which is an ATM based PON or an EPON, which is
an Ethernet based PON.
Point of Presence (POP)

A facility used by a network access provider to house physical equipment
that enables subscribers to access the network. The term is used to describe
the location where a long distance carrier connects to a local service carrier,
and also the location where an Internet service provider houses equipment
that enables dialup subscribers to access the Internet.
Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN)

The traditional voice network infrastructure, including both local service
and long distance service that has been in use in various parts of the world
for up to a century or so.
Quality of service (QoS)

The concept of applying and ensuring specific, quantifiable performance
levels on a shared network. Performance can be assessed based on physi-
cal measurements of the network, the methods by which network traffic is
prioritized, and on how the network is managed.
RT
Remote Terminal
www.adc.com
152 Glossary
Reduced Bend Radius Fiber

ADC’s term for fiber that is able to withstand tighter bends within frames,
panels and pathways. Also known in the industry as “bend insensitive,”
“bend resistant” and “bend optimized.”
Regional Bell Operating Company (RBOC)

One of six telephone companies created after AT&T divestiture. Also, the
acronym for the local telephone companies created in 1984 as part of the
break-up of AT&T. (The six RBOCs are Ameritech, Bell Atlantic, Bell South,
NYNEX, Southwestern Bell, and USWest. Some of the six have and/or are
merging.)
Return Loss
A measure of the similarity of the impedance of a transmission line and the
impedance at its termination.
Router
A computer that directs bundles of data being transmitted between nodes
on different networks.
Scalable
The ability to add power and capability to an existing system without signifi-
cant expense or overhead.
Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP)

A set of protocols for managing complex networks. SNMP works by send-
ing messages, called protocol data units (PDUs), to different parts of a net-
work. SNMP compliant devices called agents, store data about themselves
in Management Information Bases (MIBs), and return this data to the SNMP
requesters.
Single Mode Fiber

Used to describe optical fiber that allows only one mode of light sig-
nal transmission.
www.adc.com
SONET
Synchronous Optical Network is the standard for transmitting digital in-
formation over optical networks. It defines a physical interface, opti-
cal line rates known as Optical Carrier (OC) signals, frame formats, and
an OAM&P (Operations, Administration, Maintenance, and Provision-
ing) protocol. The base rate is known as OC-1 and runs at 51.84 Mbps.
Higher rates are a multiple of this such that OC-12 is equal to 622 Mbps
(12 times 51.84 Mbps)
STS-1
Synchronous Transport Signal 1 – electrical SONET signal at 51.84 Mbps.
T1
Refers to a networking standard capable of transmitting data at a rate of
1.54-Mbps. This protocol is commonly employed by very large enterprises
such as telecommunications companies, the Internet backbone and con-
nections from Internet service providers to the Internet backbone.
T3
A faster implementation of T1. Using coaxial cable, T3 allows for data trans-
mission rates of 45 Mbps and is used for WAN backbones, the Internet
backbone, and connections from Internet service providers to the Inter-
net backbone.
TDM
Time Division Multiplex is a method for transmitting multiple calls over a
single line; each call is assigned a recurring time slot on the line, and a small
portion of that call gets transmitted over the line each time its assigned time
slot is available.
TDMA
Time Division Multiple Access
Twisted pair cable

A form of wiring in which a pair of wires are wrapped around one
another again and again. Twisting two wires reduces their susceptibility to
electrical interference.
www.adc.com
154 Glossary
UBR
Unspecified Bit Rate is a QoS parameter typically used for data transmission.
Unicast
The transmit operation of a single PDU (protocol data unit) from one source
to a single destination. In Unicast video, this is one channel delivered to a
single interface device. (See multicast.)
VAM
Value Added Module. ADC’s technology for optimizing the fiber network.
Can be used to multiplex and demultiplex.
Variable Bit Rate (VBR)

An ATM Forum defined service category which supports variable bit rate
data traffic with average and peak traffic parameters. A generic term for
sources that transmit data intermittently. The ATM Forum divides VBR into
real-time and non-real-time service categories in terms of support for con-
strained Cell Delay Variation (CDV) and Cell Transfer Delay (CTD).
Vault
Outside plant enclosure used to house telecommunications equipment.
VDSL
Very high-speed Digital Subscriber Line is a scheme to boost transmission
speeds to as much as 52 Mbps for very short distances (up to 1000 ft.) on
copper wire, or longer distances in fiber-optic networks.
Virtual Private Network (VPN)

A network service that employs encryption and tunneling to provide
a subscriber with a secure private network that runs over public net-
work infrastructure.
www.adc.com
Wavelength
A measure of the color of the light for which the performance of the fiber
has been optimized. It is a length stated in nanometers (nm) or in microm-
eters (um).
Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM)

A type of multiplexing developed for use on optical fiber. WDM modulates
each of several data streams onto a different part of the light spectrum.
www.adc.com
The eagerly awaited
follow-up to ADC’s
The Book on FTTX

The essential information you need to know when deploying FTTX, from the
Central Office to the Outside Plant to the Customer Premises
The Book on
ADC’s previous book, The Book on FTTX has served as a “how-to” guide
for thousands of service providers looking for the keys to success when
deploying FTTX. This long-awaited follow-up addresses the next
generation issues related to your next generation network.
Specific topics include:

• The elements of fiber cable management
• Effective integration of reduced bend radius fiber
• Extreme-environment performance considerations for FTTX splitter modules
• The economics of FTTN vs. FTTX
• Innovative installation techniques for fiber drop terminals
• Multiple solutions for connecting multiple dwelling units (MDUs)
• Properly training next-generation technicians on next-generation products The essential information you need to know
when deploying FTTX, from the central office to
Regardless of where you are at in the deployment process, whether still the outside plant to the customer premises
evaluating or nearing completion, The Book on Next Gen Networks
is a valuable compilation that has something for everyone.
$29.95 (Canada: $39.95)
Foreword by Jason Meyers

104918 1/08 Original © 2008 ADC Telecommunications, Inc. All Rights Reserved Managing Director, Penton Custom Media

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The Book on Next Gen Networks

Specific topics include:

$29.95 (Canada: $39.95)

Foreword by Jason Meyers

The Problem with Innovation

By Jason Meyers, Managing Director, Penton Custom Media

First, though, what is that problem? What could be problematic about

The problem can be summed up in two words: expectation and execution.

Innovation creates expectation in droves. Industries like telecom live and

So the problem with innovation, quite simply, is one of follow-through. The

Introduction: The Motivation for GPON Migration............................................ 3

Chapter 16 Properly Training Next-Generation Technicians

Glossary .................................................................................................. 137

The Motivation for GPON Migration

By December 2007, approximately eight million homes had been passed

Predicting the telecom future is never easy—and it follows that building

This is particularly true of the passive optical network (PON) portion of

However, through the unpredictable performance of xDSL and the overall

• GPON is the next generation of PON electronics currently being

• The network design should accommodate flexibility for the

• In theory, the passive connectivity infrastructure must be

GPON is making it easier for PON networks to move to an all-IP format

Where’s the motivation?

GPON combines the best of BPON’s quality-of-service attributes with the

The transition to GPON

affect the networks migration to GPON. Each of these considerations will

Connectorization also plays a role in creating a migration-ready FTTP

Splitter configuration in the optical distribution portion of the network—

Moving to the CO, flexibility becomes the pathway to easy migration

Cable management in the CO is also an issue worth consideration. In fact,

Patrick J. Sims, RCDD

The Elements of Cable Management

As service providers continue upgrading their networks to transport

Proper fiber management has a direct impact on the network’s reliabil-

Any new broadband network infrastructure must have the inherent

Bend radius protection

The microbend is a small, microscopic bend that may be caused by the

or completely lost. Both microbends and macrobends can, however, be re-

The advent of bend insensitive or reduced bend radius fiber is an example

As fibers are added on top of installed fibers, macrobends can be induced

Cable routing paths

Well-defined routing paths, therefore, reduce technician training time, in-

Having defined routing paths makes accessing individual fibers easier,

With huge amounts of data—as well as revenue—moving across those fi-

Physical fiber protection

Without proper physical protection, fibers are susceptible to damage that

For example, the current upgrades to broadband service delivery taking

Although installing a 24-inch raceway system is more expensive today, hav-

Another consideration in planning for good fiber cable management con-

All four elements of a fiber cable management system—bend radius protec-

Effective Integration of Reduced Bend Radius Fiber into

Today, industry standards for traditional singlemode fiber typically specify

What is reduced bend radius optical fiber?

The fiber’s performance is definitely impressive. For example, in ADC tests

In general, reduced bend radius optical fiber is designed to perform with

Does it improve performance?

The assumptions about improved performance are not accurate either, at

Connector pull-off resistance – Cable assemblies and connectors must

Connector performance – When it comes to connector performance,

Proper applications for reduced bend radius optical fiber

Space is tight – For drop cable or termination of pigtails in multiple dwell-

No fiber management is available – The front of frames and routers—

• GPON is the next generation of PON electronics currently being

• The network design should accommodate flexibility for the

• In theory, the passive connectivity infrastructure must be

• Miniaturized splitter modules with plug-in installation that allow

• High-density termination fields with connectorized harnesses

• A wide range of sizes and mounting configurations that retain

• Performance enhancements to optical connectors and splitters due

• Time- and space-saving parking lots providing cross-connect function-