June 22, 2007 -- Corning Cable Systems, part of Corning Inc.'s telecommunications segment, has introduced its FlexNAP Terminal Distribution System with RPX Ribbon Cable.
Designed to ease the deployment of FTTX networks via the FlexNAP system, the RPX cable is a gel-free ribbon cable whose rectangular, flat profile is suitable for both aerial and buried applications. The company says the RPX's slim design enables the FlexNAP system's distribution cable, tap point and tether to fit through 1.25-inch innerduct.
According to the company, the RPX's design reduces the cable size by up to 35% and its weight by up to 50%, resulting in lower shipping costs and less need for manpower and equipment during deployment.
In addition, the RPX is designed to provide 1-step fiber access, reducing cable preparation time to less than one minute. The ribbon cable, available with up to 96 fibers, also offers the benefits and time savings of mass fusion splicing, notes Corning.
In general, the FlexNAP system utilizes optical fiber cables upon which network access points are pre-installed at customer-specified locations along the length of the cable. The system provides installation speeds up to 85% faster than traditional cable deployment methods, contends the company, decreasing the needed equipment, craft personnel and overall cost of deploying FTTX networks.
For superior reliability, notes the company, the system also incorporates factory-spliced tap points prepared 100% tested in a controlled environment.