Hello everyone!
Fiber deployments have been growing, driven by the need for high data rates. As installed fibers grow, the management of optical transport networks becomes more difficult. A number of factors should be considered in the fiber routing process, such as flexibility, future feasibility, deployment, and management costs. Various fiber distribution frames (ODFs) are widely used to connect and dispatch fibers in order to handle large amounts of fiber at a lower cost and greater flexibility. Choosing the right fiber patch panel is the key to successful cable management.
So today, let's get to know what an ODF is and what its basic form looks like.
Description of the ODF
An optical distribution frame (ODF) is a framework for providing cable interconnection between communications facilities. It integrates fiber splicing, fiber termination, fiber adapters and connectors, and cable connections in a single unit. It also works as a protective device to protect the fiber optic connection from damage. Based on the structure, ODFs are classified into wall-mounted ODFs, floor-mounted ODFs, and rack-mounted ODFs.
Let's take Huawei FIU2122-2S rack-mounted ODF as an example:
FIU2122-2S structure
The FIU2122-2S series can be installed in a 19- or 21-inch integrated network cabinet with a depth of ≥ 282 mm to terminate optical fibers.
The internal structure of the FIU2122-2S
The FIU2122-2S provides the following functions and advantages:
1 U high, supporting 19/21-inch integrated cabinet rack-mounted installation.
Pull-out tray style (can be pulled out by 270 mm at most), convenient for operation.
Providing install the MPO module.
Providing fiber termination and splicing function.
The surplus length of the inlet and outlet optical cables can be managed effectively.
High-density design, 1U double-layer pull-out structure, and 48 cores cable termination.
Support multiple installation positions by mounting ears (depth direction).
For more information about the FIU2122-2S rack-mounted ODF, click here.
ODF Selection Guide
The choice of an ODF is not limited to the structure, but also to the application. Some of the most important are described below:
Optical fiber quantity: As the number of optical fiber connections increases in places such as data centers, the demand for high-density ODFs becomes a trend. Currently, ODFs with 24-port, 48-port, or 144-port optical fibers are common. At the same time, many vendors can offer customized ODFs based on customer requirements.
Manageability: High density is good, but management is not easy. The ODF should provide a simple management environment for technicians. The basic requirement is that the ODF should allow easy access to the connectors before and after these ports for insertion and removal. This requires that sufficient space be reserved in the ODF. In addition, the color of the adapter installed on the ODF should be consistent with the color code of the fiber connector to avoid incorrect connection.
Flexibility: As mentioned earlier, rack-mounted ODFs are relatively flexible in modular design applications. However, another aspect that can effectively increase ODF flexibility is the port side of the adapter on the ODF. For example, an ODF with duplex LC adapter size ports can be installed with duplex LC, SC, or MRTJ adapters. ODFs with ST adapter size ports can be installed with ST adapters and FC adapters.
Protection: The optical distribution frame has integrated fiber connections in it. Fiber connections, such as splicing connectors and fiber connectors, are very sensitive in the entire transmission network and directly affect the stability and reliability of the network. Therefore, a good ODF should have protections to protect the fiber optic connections from damage caused by dust or pressure.
Floor-mounted ODF
Wall-mounted ODF
ODFs are the most popular and comprehensive fiber distribution frames that reduce costs during deployment and maintenance and increase the reliability and flexibility of fiber networks. High-density ODFs are a trend in the telecom industry.
Therefore, selecting an ODF is also a technical activity. We need to fully consider the above factors and select an ODF that meets the current requirements while keeping pace with the future growth rate. What do you suggest about that?
Thanks for reading!
