CommScope offers fiber wall box options for MDU, single-family FTTP

CommScope is using the SCTE Cable-Tec Expo in New Orleans this week to unveil an enhanced fiber wall box portfolio for multi-dwelling unit (MDU) and single-family dwelling unit (SFU) fiber to the premises (FTTP) applications. The products are designed to streamline and lower the cost of FTTP deployments.

The new systems come from the Broadband Network Solutions (BNS) business CommScope acquired from TE Connectivity (see "CommScope consummates TE Connectivity Broadband Network Solutions buy"). However, sources at the show say these are brand new products, rather than rebranding of existing BNS gear.

The new equipment includes an outdoor version of the mini Rapid Fiber distribution terminal (RDT), which previously was available only for indoor MDU applications. The mini RDT uses CommScope's RapidReel cable spool technology support deployment of several hundred feet of 3.6-mm indoor/outdoor cable. The far end of the cable terminates to a 12-fiber multi-fiber push-on (MPO) or hardened multi-fiber optical connector (HMFOC). Overall, the mini RDT can reduce site survey inspections, streamline cable inventory requirements, and accelerate MDU installations, CommScope says.

Meanwhile, the indoor version of the mini RDT also has been enhanced. Operators can now access a 1x4 or 1x8 integrated splitter option. A single optical fiber cable feeds the mini RDT, which splits the signal up to eight available SC plug-and-play adapter ports. Installers use preconnectorized drops to feed up to eight living units per floor. The system's all-front-access to customer terminations helps ensure easy maintenance, changes, and additions according to CommScope.

Finally, the optical wall box (OWB-S) provides outdoor fiber termination for connecting fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) devices; however, may be used in other outdoor above-ground applications as well. The OWB-S offers flexible options for fiber storage, splicing, patching, and passive component integration in a small footprint, CommScope says. The OWB-S offers multiple cable access points for indoor/outdoor applications. A hinge and latch design enables quick and simple technician access. The OWB-S comes with an optional padlock.

For more information on FTTx equipment and suppliers, visit the Lightwave Buyer's Guide.