Design and Performance of Novel Optical Fiber Distribution and Management System With Testing Functions in Central Office

Abstract

This paper describes the design and performance of a novel central office optical fiber distribution and management system for optical access networks. We clarify the requirements for an optical fiber distribution and management system with a testing function. We propose integrated distribution modules (IDMs) and high-count indoor cables for high-capacity cable termination and cross connection, a management system using identification tags for easy administration and reference with respect to the distribution facilities, and a new optical fiber line testing system using an optical testing module with a 1650 nm optical time-domain reflectometer for in-service testing. We evaluated the prototype system. The prototype IDM could accommodate 4000 fibers and the insertion loss of the communication lines and the system dynamic range of testing system met our requirements for use in an optical access network including a 7 km outside cable and an eight-branch optical splitter. We compared the cost and testing time required for the conventional and proposed systems. We found that the proposed distribution system can reduce the distribution cost by 40% and connection work time by 12% compared with the conventional system. We also found that the testing system can reduce the system cost by 63% compared with the conventional testing system and required testing time is 73% less than testing time by hand, thus reducing the operations, administration, and maintenance costs.