August 18, 2005 Minneapolis, MN -- ADC, a supplier of infrastructure platforms for FTTX networks, today announced that its OmniReach Fiber Distribution Terminals (FDTs) have been granted product acceptance by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Rural Utilities Services (RUS).
Product acceptance by RUS means that the product can be purchased and installed using RUS loans or grants, allowing rural carriers to take advantage of FDT features that directly impact the reliability, functionality, and operational cost of FTTX networks, according to the company.
"We are proud to be granted this prestigious designation by the U.S. Department of Agriculture , and we share its commitment to providing rural communities across America with access to high-speed broadband services," says Pat O'Brien, president of ADC's global connectivity business unit. "Product acceptance of our OmniReach Fiber Distribution Terminals by RUS represents an important differentiator between ADC and our competitors. In addition to meeting the rigorous technical and origination requirements, our approval by RUS is due in large part to the borrowers of the Broadband Loan program who demand the highest quality, once again demonstrating the superior value of our products to our customers."
ADC says its OmniReach FDT product line allows rural carriers to centralize splitters in the field; designed specifically for FTTX applications, the company says its FDTs provide physical layer access to feeder and distribution networks with integrated bend radius protection, logical cable routing, and complete physical protection for cables and jumpers. The FDT offers multiple splitter options as well as a choice of connectorization or splicing options of input fiber.
RUS administers several programs for improving the quality of life in rural America by financing telecommunications infrastructure, including the Rural Broadband Access Loan and Loan Guarantee program. During fiscal 2005, almost $2.2 billion will be made available by RUS for loans and loan guarantees for the construction, improvement, and acquisition of facilities and equipment for broadband service in eligible rural communities.
