Delivering More Fiber Capacity — Advanced Optical Modules
By Joe Sayakumane
Broadband networks are continually challenged by the increased demand of bandwidth-intense applications. In areas equipped with fiber, capacity may be increased through solutions such as dense wavelength division multiplexing (DWDM) instead of placing additional fiber, saving time and money, and providing more responsive service to customers.
Of course, a vendor’s ability to respond depends on how well they manage through ongoing worldwide supply chain challenges. To lessen this impact, service providers should look to suppliers with onshore facilities capable of rapid delivery.
Amphenol Broadband Solutions expands fiber capacity with DWDM solutions that combine simplicity, security, and reliability. Its AOM (Advanced Optical Module) has been designed to handle high channel counts in a form factor that is appropriate in both inside and outside plant settings. These devices round out the lineup of ABS devices that are also available in LGX® modules as well as our exclusive HiDT design for OSP application.
The product family includes optical passives used in many broadband networks, most commonly in the cable market. Modules can be partially or fully configured with CWDM/DWDM frequencies, ranging from two to 48 channel counts and can also include optional features for monitoring, upgrades and express-through bands.
In headend and other inside plant environments, WDM solutions are available in both traditional LGX® style packaging, or the efficient flat pack design of the AOM. The latter is deployed in a space-saving C2E chassis or the versatile C2X platform.
The distribution network may be limited, however, by the capacity available in its OSP splice closures, particularly those that are nearly out of space. The need to provide a new closure as capacity is added to a fiber route represents a significant investment in time, placement, and splicing costs. By virtue of its port density and form factor utilizing previously unused space within the closure, the OSP AOM device could well avoid additional closure placement costs.
A set of accessories facilitates secure, reliable placement of the devices inside the most popular OSP closures. Unlike the typical approach of securing DWDM devices in closures using hook-and-loop straps, tape, or other clumsy solutions, every ABS OSP device is mechanically mounted to ensure safe, long-term service that will not become insecure due to temperature changes, re-opening of the closure, etc. Service providers will realize savings as trouble situations are avoided throughout the life of the device.
As an example of their versatility, both the OSP AOM and the HiDT have two installation options within a widely deployed, industry standard OSP closure. The AOM may be placed within the stack of splice trays inside the closure. To accomplish this, the module is snap-mounted in a module mounting bracket, which snaps onto the closure’s “tower,” consuming a tray slot. The more compact HiDT is mounted in a tray adapter that then snaps into the splice closure’s tower.
The OSP AOM provides convenient test ports at the most accessible end of the closure, eliminating the need to fumble with test access that may be located on splice trays or among the inter-tray fibers at the cable end of the closure. Craft will appreciate the convenience of these test ports, and the time-savings they provide will have a direct impact on operational expenses.
AOMs offer broadband service providers a cost-effective approach to increase the capacity of embedded fiber cable assets. By taking advantage of unused space within previously deployed OSP closures, each OSP AOM can offer additional fiber channels. Mechanical mounting ensures that the OSP AOM and its connections are securely protected from the normal jostling that comes with other attachment methods. Finally, the convenient location of ports ensures hassle-free craft test access.
Joe Sayakumane,
Fiber Product Manager,
Amphenol Broadband Solutions
Joe Sayakumane is the Fiber Product Manager at Amphenol Broadband Solutions, guiding the company’s strategy for fiber products. Amphenol Broadband Solutions is a global leader in communication technology development specializing in the engineering and manufacturing of cable, RF equipment, fiber optic products, OSP enclosures and wireless products.
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