June 20, 2006 Plymouth, MN -- APA Cables & Networks (APACN), a wholly owned subsidiary of APA Enterprises, Inc., has announced its 288-Port Fiber Distribution System (FDS), the latest addition to its line of high-density fiber distribution frames and panels.
Offering advanced cable management features and easy accessibility, the 288-Port FDS combines circuit density with a modular "grow-as-you-go" approach that supports fast, easy upgrades as future growth dictates.
The 288-Port FDS's building block is the 12-port distribution cassette. Supporting all media types from IFC to OSP fiber in both ribbon and loose-tube constructions, the cassette allows the user to configure the panel in increments of 12, providing scalability from 12 to 288 without jeopardizing port density. In its full 288-port configuration, the 11-inch-high footprint is the highest-density offering on the market, the company claims.
APACN's 288-port panel supports a maximum density of 1,728 ports in a patch-only option on a standard 7-ft frame. Patch and splice configurations, deployed with a separate 144-fiber splice deck, provide up to 864 on-frame patch and splice ports in a standard 7-ft frame. All industry-standard connectors (LC, SC APC, and SC UPC) are supported.
The 12-port cassette used in the 288-Port FDS is also the basic component used in APACN's Fiber Scalability Center (FSC), APACN's line of outside plant cabinets. This commonality of parts enables lower installation time due to the technician's knowledge and familiarity with the part and reduced inventory and faster network growth, since a single stock part can satisfy both inside- and outside-plant applications.
As with all APACN fiber management products, the 288-Port FDS incorporates features that reduce the risk of damage to revenue-generating circuits. Route diversity, bend radius protection, and a hinged/removable front cover offer easy accessibility and faster installation, repair, or cleaning of fibers.
APACN is able to configure its products to fit specific user needs, and invites service providers to submit their design requirements. Customized rack elevation drawings, providing visualization of specific customer network requirements, are available without charge.
The 288-Port FDS is now available and ships with factory-terminated assemblies to save time and expense.