Optical Distribution Frame Unites up to 5,376 Fibers

R&M, the globally active developer and provider of cabling systems for high-quality network infrastructures, based in Wetzikon, Switzerland, is providing FO network operators with greater planning freedom. With the new PRIME modules from R&M, they can now use their fiber distribution hub units in more varied ways than ever before. This means they can design FTTH networks precisely from the outset to suit local requirements and still have the possibility of extending or adapting them later any time they want. PRIME is a highly dense cabling platform for Optical Distribution Frames (ODF). At maximum capacity, 5,376 optical fibers can be connected in an ODF with PRIME modules. And that is setting new standards on the FTTH market.

The new PRIME modules from R&M are setting new standards on the FTTH market.

Above-ground street cabinets and basements, main distributor frames, central offices and POP sites are some of the most important locations for the PRIME ODF racks. Here they form the nodes of local broadband networks such as city rings and feeder networks. PRIME ODF is at home wherever space is limited and a high number of optical fibers need to be wired. The platform is also suitable for fiber optic distribution in data centers. Backhaul networks from mobile communication providers are a further area of use.

With PRIME, R&M implements the principle of modularity. The distributors can be assembled, adapted and extended like separate blocks. This approach makes it possible to plan with manageable investment costs. Network operators only order the specific number of components they actually need (pay as you grow). They can react quickly to local FTTH demand and technical progress and scale broadband networks to suit requirements.

Up to 14 PRIME modules fit in a 19” or ETSI rack. No tools are required for assembly in R&M ETSI racks. This makes technicians’ work faster and makes network operators more flexible. The PRIME modules can be assembled from the front or back in 19″ racks.

A sub-rack can accommodate four PRIME fiber units. They can be combined and equipped in a variety of ways and retrofitted without tools. The PRIME range contains fiber units for fiber optic termination, for splice and breakout cabling as well as for patch cord and overlength storage. When using the Ultra-High Density LC adapters from R&M, the capacity of a PRIME ODF totals 5,376 FO connections. The high packing density results in a decrease in the average costs per port.

Drawer technology protects the fibers during assembly, maintenance and cleaning. The fibers remain in the guide. A channel system protects the fibers on the way to the splice area. The connectors can be detected and operated when the drawer is pushed in and be pulled into a service position for cleaning and inspection.