OmniReach Fiber Distribution Terminals Designed to Support IP Video Services in FTTX Networks

ADC, a leading supplier of infrastructure solutions for fiber-to-the-x (FTTX) networks, announced that CC Communications of Fallon, Nev., has installed OmniReach(TM) Fiber Distribution Terminals (FDT) for its passive optical network (PON).

CC Communications, the only county-owned telephone company in the U.S., made the strategic decision to extend fiber throughout the outside plant and provide capacity for up to 100 Mbps service for each customer. The company now offers basic telephone, long distance, Internet, and interactive TV over its fiber-to-the-home network. In fact, CC Communications is one of only dozens of service providers offering IP video services instead of an RF overlay for delivery of basic TV, video on demand, and other video services.

"We sought to build a future-proof infrastructure so that the outside plant won't become obsolete as we change electronics and add applications," said Dave Tilley, broadband supervisor for CC Communications. "By centralizing splitters in neighborhood cross-connect cabinets, we will be able to quickly adapt the outside plant as we add subscribers and continue to add new services such as voice over IP, security, surveillance, and others for our owner/subscribers."

ADC's OmniReach FDTs allow CC Communications to centralize splitters in the field. Designed specifically for FTTX applications, the OmniReach FDT provides physical layer access to feeder and distribution networks with integrated bend radius protection, logical cable routing, and complete physical protection for cables and jumpers. The FDT offers multiple splitter options as well as a choice of connectorization or splicing options of input fiber.

To deliver 100 Mbps service to each home, CC Communications required FDTs to house 1x8 splitters instead of 1x32 splitters. Even when the current ATM platform achieves gigabit speed, 1x32 splitters would still limit bandwidth per household. To make sure each FDT could properly manage up to four splitter input pigtails, ADC developed engineering changes and deployed a field modification for FDTs before service turn-up.

"We are proud of the responsiveness and flexibility we have developed in our engineering and manufacturing processes," said Pat O'Brien, president of the Global Connectivity Solutions Business Unit for ADC. "As a result, we are able to provide FTTX solutions that match the unique network requirements for any service provider."

It is estimated that $1.5-3.5 billion will be spent annually by telecommunications service providers during the next five years as FTTX networks are deployed in the United States. New FTTX projects initiated by carriers and municipalities have increased by more than 100 percent since 2000.