Multi-Fiber Terminal Fits 10 Connection Ports in a Small Space

Clearfield Inc. recently introduced the TetherSmart Multi-Fiber Terminal (MFT), a fully-sealed 10-port access terminal that it described as “the industry’s smallest,” for use in fiber-to-the-home, fiber-to-the-business, and 5G backhaul applications.

“The TetherSmart MFT’s configurability and industry-standard SC, MPO, and hardened fiber-optic connector [HFOC] options enable craft-friendly, plug-and-play connectivity,” Clearfield said when announcing the product. “The flexible product design also allows for future portfolio expansion. As the smallest, sealed terminal in the market, the MFT is optimized for deployment in pedestals as small as 6 inches, as well as below-grade and aerial mounting options—ideal for dense neighborhoods, business parks, and decorative 5G small cell poles.”

It supports both centralized and distributed split architectures and provides capabilities for a shifted, pass-through architecture. A single or multi-fiber input feeds up to 8 single-fiber drop ports, with an optional multi-fiber express output port to enable daisy-chaining to other terminals deeper in the network, Clearfield explained. This modular configuration simplifies network scaling without added engineering complexity, it added.

All terminals meet the company’s FiberDeep performance standards, achieving 0.2-dB insertion loss maximum for single-fiber and 0.35-dB loss for multifiber connectors.

“Designed for long-term outdoor use, the MFT is GR-771 compliant and features UV-resistant molded plastic, a uniquely designed ruggedized, no-kink and high-crush-resistant spiral armored tubing, and environmental sealing to withstand harsh outside-plant conditions,” the company pointed out.

“As our customers look to connect more homes and businesses, in rural, urban, and suburban environments, we’re seeing growing demand for smaller, faster, and smarter deployment options—and the TetherSmart MFT (data sheet here) is Clearfield’s answer to that call,” said Anis Khemakhem, the company’s chief marketing officer. “Its compact footprint gives network operators the flexibility to economically reach any customer, anywhere, without compromise on speed, performance, or durability.”