Berk-Tek offers high-density distribution cable for trunk applications
MAY 27, 2010 -- Berk-Tek, a Nexans Company, has unveiled a new high-density distribution fiber-optic cable, designated ACP (Aramid Connect Plenum).
This new cable was developed to provide a small cable diameter suitable for termination with MPO connectors. The cable has a 3.0-mm diameter, and contains up to 12 color-coded fibers. Each fiber has a nominal 250-um coating. The cable also carries a plenum (OFNP) listing.
ACP provides a compact, flexible structure for use where space is limited, Berk-Tek says. With no preferential bend, the round design provides a significant mechanical advantage over a ribbon cable, the company asserts.
The construction is similar to Berk-Tek’s patented Adventum cables that contain 12 fibers in a 3.0-mm tube. However, in the ACP design, aramid yarn is contained within the tube along with the optical fibers instead of around the tube. This feature provides a smaller diameter and simpler method to add strength to the MPO termination.
“This design provides our customers with the ability to manufacture higher density trunk cables when an indoor/outdoor design is not needed,” notes Mike Connaughton, RCDD, fiber optic products business manager at Berk-Tek. “This is especially convenient when the cable is to be used in relatively short lengths where the pulling strength of an outside plant cable is unnecessary. In a typical data center, the distance is often less than 100 feet.”
Although the product is targeted for the data center market, it is suitable for many applications, Berk-Tek asserts. Available options include:
- 4, 6, or 12 fibers
- singlemode, multimode 50/125 micron (OM2 through OM4+) and 62.5/125 micron (OM1) fibers
- aluminum or steel interlocked armor (OFCP listed)