One Pass Fiber Pathway from 3M Enables Fast Installation of FTTP Networks for MDUs
AUSTIN, Texas – Sept. 29, 2009 - To enable fast installation of FTTP networks for multi-dwelling units (MDUs), 3M Communication Markets Division developed and recently introduced the One Pass Fiber Pathway. This horizontal cable pathway and drop cable solution can be installed in just one pass around a hallway perimeter.
MDU living is a fast-growing market. According to the 2008 “Fiberizing the MDU” report by Sean
Buckley, there are approximately 700 million MDUs worldwide, occupied by one-third of the
global population. By the year 2012 the number of MDUs passed with fiber could exceed 10 million
per year. Economies of scale make FTTP deployments to MDUs more cost effective than
deployments to single-family homes.
Using 3M adhesive technology to adhere the One Pass Duct to the wall, the One Pass Fiber
Pathway from 3M is compatible with a variety of hallway wall surfaces. The low-profile design is
less obtrusive than existing horizontal cable pathway solutions and because it’s flexible, the
pathway conforms well to curved walls often found in older MDUs. Fewer parts and a continuous,
seamless application process make installation of the 3M One Pass Fiber Pathway quick, reducing
installation time and labor costs compared to traditional cable pathway and drop cable solutions.
The One Pass Fiber Pathway is also suitable for use in hotels, hospitals, schools and small
businesses.
Verizon delivers 100 percent fiber-optics straight to homes and small businesses. The
telecommunications provider has approved and will be using the 3M One Pass Fiber Pathway to
install its FTTP networks in its aggressive MDU endeavor. Today at the 2009 FTTH Conference
and Expo in Houston, Kevin Smith, manager of Engineering Process Assurance at Verizon, will be
on the "MDU Considerations" panel at 3:15 p.m., to discuss and provide best practices and methods
for a successful fiber-optic deployment in MDUs.
Suitable for indoor use only, 3M One Pass Fiber Pathway is available in a variety of lengths and
pre-loaded with 6 or 12 single-mode, bend-insensitive fibers and can be factory terminated at one
end with SC connectors. The design enables quick, plug-and-play connections to vertical
distribution cables in a fiber distribution terminal (FDT).
About 3M Communication Markets Division
With more than 40 years in the telecommunications industry, 3M Communication Markets Division
offers one of the widest and most comprehensive suite of scalable solutions to communications
service providers around the world from underground and buried plant, to central office, premises
and more. Proven systems from 3M optimize network testing, construction, locating and
maintenance for faster, more reliable high-bandwidth transmissions; enable physical media-layer
capabilities for FTTP and DSL deployments from central office to customer premises; and deliver
fiber optics technologies to leverage existing infrastructure or install completely new networks.
More information is on the 3M One Pass Fiber Pathway available at www.3MFiber.com.
About 3M
A recognized leader in research and development, 3M produces thousands of innovative products for dozens of diverse markets. 3M's core strength is applying its more than 40 distinct technology platforms – often in combination – to a wide array of customer needs. With $24 billion in sales, 3M employs 75,000 people worldwide and has operations in more than 60 countries. For more information, visit http://www.3M.com.
Editors:
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