Splicing fiber inside data centers is a solid, cost-effective method for delivering fiber optic expansion, without the need for pre-determined cables. In order to perform this task, operators need to rely on skilled technicians, but due to the current shortage of these means attempts to deliver fast and reliable connections have been hindered.
Even if technicians are available, the task of splicing the cables can be time-consuming. To ensure greater time and cost savings, operators are now turning to alternative solutions, such as ribbon fibers. These come in a range of types - including flat and flexible options – to suit all data center requirements.
An attractive alternative for operators
Flat ribbon or ribbon fibers enable multiple fibers to be arranged side-by-side on the same flat plane, with each ribbon containing between 4 to 24 fibers. The use of ribbon cables empowers operators to carry out bulk fusion splicing, where each 12 fiber ribbon can be spliced in a single, straightforward process.
Flexible ribbon fiber
Flexible ribbon fibers give operators the means to enable the same bulk fusion splicing capabilities found through traditional flat ribbons, but these can ensure greater weight savings and a reduction of the cable’s outer diameter. This is due to the ribbon’s flexible, mesh-like structure, making them a perfect option for operators where space is in short supply.
Splice three times faster with OptiRibbon
To ensure operators can get the most out of their ribbons, HUBER+SUHNER has combined the best double jacket cable for data center with flexible ribbon fibers to create the OptiRibbon cable. Used to connect customer equipment found on the whitespace, customers using the solution can now splice up to 66.7% faster than traditional data center cabling, breaking down the barriers for fiber optic expansion and accelerating the installation significantly.
The OptiRibbon cable therefore gives installers the means to splice more cables and attend to a higher number of data centers on a day-to-day basis, counteracting the shortage of a skilled workforce.
Benefits of OptiRibbon
The OptiRibbon’s flexible, round and small-size cables have an outer diameter of 4.0 milimeter for 12 fibers and 4.9 milimeter for 24 fibers. The unique OptiRibbon cable allows for easy installation when handling and routing them in the rack, including cassettes and modules. Installation is made simpler thanks to the solution’s mesh structure, which enables fibers to be pre-sorted by colour. This saves the installer time and nerves.
Compatibility with LISA and IANOS
Fiber Management System (FMS), such as IANOS and LISA from HUBER+SUHNER, are compatible with the OptiRibbon cable, which means operators do not require an overhaul of their existing infrastructure to implement the Ribbon solution. This also leads to significant cost savings.
