August 25, 2004 Hauppauge, NY -- The angled physical contact (APC) connector is ideal for use in the outside plant environment of FTTP applications. According to Sagitta Inc., its Gemini-Cx integrated polishing, cleaning, and inspection automation cell is the only commercially available high-volume batch processing solution for APC connectors.
With Verizon, SBC, and BellSouth all moving towards FTTP architectures as a means to leapfrog the limited consumer bandwidth provided by DSL and cable modems and Verizon's recent awarding of FTTP contracts to key suppliers, fiber-optic connector usage is predicted to soar. Verizon has committed to deploying FTTP services to 1 million homes in the United States this year, 2 million in 2005, and over 4 million in 2006, at which point SBC has indicated it will also begin its initial FTTP rollout.
Verizon's decision to utilize APC connectors is the first true mass deployment of this connector type. According to Sagitta, the Gemini-Cx inspection automation cell is the first in the industry to offer high-volume batch processing solution for APC connectors. Providing what the company claims is superior geometry and surface finish at reduced consumable costs, the Gemini-Cx is easily scalable to multiple sites without the need for increased staffing and training. With throughput of over 200 APC ends per hour, the Gemini-Cx is "finding warm reception among the FTTP supplier community," says the company, where the automation cell is being selected as a turn-key alternative to brick & mortar expansion.