July 15, 2008

Bendable Fiber Twists and Turns into Tight Spots

By Monta Monaco Hernon

Optical fiber cable experiences signal loss when bent around tight corners. This is particularly problematic in some markets, like multiple dwelling units (MDUs), where a typical installation could require 12 90-degree bends.

Corning's new ClearCurve solution uses what the company calls a nanoStructures fiber design to prevent signal loss even at a 90-degree angle. Nanometer-scale pockets surround the fiber. Their job is to direct light back into the core. The end result is a fiber that can be deployed similarly to coax without microduct.

Likewise, OFS facilitates installation as cables based on its EZ-Bend technology can be stapled and installed using standard tools. Around corners, EZ-Bend technology results in negligible signal loss (0.1 dB maximum at 550 nm) for one turn at 5 mm radius. A conventional fiber-optic cable could lose most of the signal.

"This technology completes the optical path for RFOG (RF over Glass) applications and provides a full optical spectrum distribution network, from the headend/central office to the subscriber," said Fernando Constantino, OFS marketing communications manager.

"Visitors (to Corning's booth at Cable-Tec Expo) from MSOs were very interested because they realize optical cables featuring this technology can be deployed with the same simple practices used for copper or coaxial cables. There is no increase in installation or deployment time and cost," Constantino said.

- Monta Monaco Hernon

Read more news and analysis on Communications Technology's Web site at http://www.cable360.net/ct/news/.