Sterlite Tech unveils 5G, FTTH enabling network technologies at ANGA COM 2018

Sterlite Tech [BSE: 532374, NSE: STRTECH], a global technology leader in web-scale digital networks, unveiled a bouquet of all new 5G-enabling fronthaul and Fibre-to-the-Home (FTTH) network technologies on June 13 at ANGA COM 2018.  

The global debut of the Airblown Micro cable, Micro cable – 4mm, Micro Bullet Series Cable and the Riser Cable highlights Sterlite Tech’s continuous commitment to disruptive network designs, and innovative research and development. 

Built on its globally recognised manufacturing capabilities, Sterlite Tech’s two new micro cables and air blown cable utilise existing and new duct systems to accommodate more fibres in a sub-duct network. This allows operators to implement high-density fibre counts within their existing cabling systems, delivering a dedicated optical fibre in a flexible, reliable and upgradeable manner. This technology enables operators to meet global demands for 5G networks and FTTx at reduced deployment time. The fourth technology –Riser Cable – is intended for FTTH in a vertical run shaft or inside buildings as it meets the industry standards for fire-resistance.

“As 5G-enabled services such as the Internet of Things, Virtual and Augmented Reality and UHD/4K TV begin to grow, telecom operators and ISPs are looking for a fast and cost-effective way to significantly increase their fibre counts and enrich their fronthaul and last-mile networks to support these services,” said Dr Badri Gomatam, Chief Technology Officer, Sterlite Tech. “This is no easy task; as the density of homes in urban areas increases, the current fibre architecture must evolve and advance to the point of consumption – with operators across North America and Europe looking for innovative fibre cable solutions to maximise their existing fibre counts for global demands.”

Officially launched by Joshua Streitz, Head – Supply Chain, Post Luxembourg, at ANGA COM, the innovative Airblown 2.6mm 24F Micro cable using 200 micron fibre technology can enhance air blown installation for Fibre-to-the-Point (FTTx) drop for deployments in congested areas and metro applications, supporting installation in micro trenches along roads and pavements. Designed to provide optimum balance of stiffness and flexibility, the cable can fit into limited 5/3.5mm ducts and reach longer blowing distances, compared to other blown cables available in the market.

The 24F (4 x 6F) Micro cable – 4mm is the industry smallest multi-tube micro cable with easy drop and mid-span access – unveiled by Sean Pillans, Head of Power and Access Infrastructure, Liberty Global – is for use in air blown installations for FTTx feeder and drop and can be utilised for existing and new duct systems. Using compressed air in pre-installed micro ducts, the cable can accommodate more fibres in a given subduct and can be blown up to 2km for long distance links.

As the smallest 288F (24 x 12F) micro cable with standard 12 fibres per loose tube on the market, 288F Micro Bullet Series Cable was presented by Phill Coppin, Head – Global Application Engineering, Sterlite Tech. It is the latest addition to Sterlite Tech’s Bullet Series and is designed to re-engineer tube material for optimum cable packing efficiency – reducing approximately 10% of the cable weight and size, enabling upto 50% faster installation in a 14/18mm sub-duct.

Georges Majerus, Senior Planner – Fibre Networks, LuxConnect, announced the indoor Riser Cable, which provides an easy deployment for riser applications in multi-storey buildings complying to the industry CPR fire performance standards with classification B2ca-s1, d1. This cable allows set fibres to be broken out at floor level without the need to access the entire cable.

With enhanced features such as reduced sheath thickness and smaller loose tubes, the cables can be easily transported, managed and installed, significantly reducing deployment times. The cables, which leverage the latest industry standards and regulations, including ITU-T recommendations, also come in a range of sizes for different applications, providing greater flexibility and control within end blowing and mid blow scenarios for extended lengths.

Sterlite Tech is showcasing the new cables at ANGA COM – Booth E8, Hall 7 – in Cologne, Germany, till June 14, alongside its full portfolio of smarter products, services and software that enable delivery of smarter digital networks.