NOVEMBER 16, 2009 -- Buckeye Cablevision Inc. has chosen to work with Kabel-X USA LLC to use its new process to deploy a fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) trial in Buckeye's Toledo, OH system. With this trial Buckeye will transition an existing subdivision to an FTTH architecture without construction of new facilities in the easements. Through this approach, Buckeye expects to validate its initial research into the Kabel-X technology for its value in deploying fiber deeper into the network. Buckeye is the largest cable firm operating in the Toledo, OH area, providing video, voice, and data services to approximately 150,000 subscribers.
Kabel-X USA, a supplier of coax and fiber-optic cable line conversion technologies, has pioneered a process that quickly and seamlessly removes the coax cable center conductor and dielectric material, providing operators with a conduit through which they can easily deploy fiber-optic cable without costly new construction or excavation and upgrade of existing lines. (See Kabel-X USA President and CEO Joby Upton describe the process in this Lightwave Channel video.)
"We see the Kabel-X technology as an innovative tool that will allow us to cost effectively deploy a fiber-to-the-home architecture in areas currently served by a traditional hybrid fiber coax (HFC) network. This technology will allow us the opportunity to effectively manage our network architecture so as to best meet our overall needs," says Joe Jensen, Buckeye's chief technology officer.
The process is suited for a variety of applications including fiber-deep network build-outs, challenging crossings or pathways, in vertical high rises and other MDU situations that operators see as a vital target for fiber expansion in the face of growing competition.
The approach uses a proprietary lubricant under pressure to separate the dielectric within the coax cable from the outer aluminum shield. The dielectric and center conductor are quickly pulled out, leaving an empty conduit for easy placement of fiber-optic cable. According to Kabel-X, this process expedites installation time, minimizes costs, requires minimal new permitting, and simplifies a once expensive, inconvenient, and disruptive process. Cable operators can quickly deploy state-of-the-art, high-bandwidth fiber-optic facilities within their existing plant footprints. Cable service providers have been looking for cost-effective and less intrusive construction alternatives to trenching and even directional boring for some time, says Kabel-X.
"Whether to the node, pole, or beyond, Kabel-X technology removes excess costs and hassles by leveraging the most efficient and minimally disruptive cable conversion process on the market," says David Adler, executive vice president for Kabel-X USA.
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