wiredinUSA August 2020

Bend-insensitive single mode fibers (ITU-T G.657.A1 and G.657.A2) are the only fibers capable of securing the entire fiber spectrum, especially at the longer wavelengths (1,625nm and above), by minimizing losses linked to macro and micro bends. These fibers enable the development of extreme fiber count and reduced diameter cabling solutions, to help meet today’s demand for the highest bandwidth capacity in duct installations. Each fiber optic cable within the Draka Universal cabling system comes in a range of bend-insensitive fibers that provide the necessary standard of cable density, and support the necessary fiber spectrum demanded by new PON technologies. BendBrightXS fibers support the full use of transmission bands, covering the entire wavelength spectrum from 1,260nm to 1,625nm for data transmission, and up to 1,675nm for network monitoring. Draka’s bend-insensitive fibers guide provides a brief explanation of the types of bend-insensitivity before moving on to look at the latest developments in fiber coatings that virtually erase problems associated with bending, whilst significantly reducing cable diameters and achieving high fiber density.

“There are typically multiple wires used in a very small space for the stimulation,” explained Gary Davies, manager at Sandvik Materials Technology’s business unit for medical wire manufacturing. “These wires usually have a dielectric coating, so they don’t short to each other and disrupt the signal or electrical energy that is being sent to the nerve to correct the problem.

“This has to be done in a precise and reliable way.”

Two are conductivity and durability, but the wire coating is also important. According to Davies: “It is important that we use ... PTFE or other biocompatible coatings because of the restricted space. essential characteristics

They have to be very thin, but they have to be very robust and non-toxic.”

Fiber guide Draka, part of Prysmian Group, has launched a technology guide: “Bend- insensitive fibers: a key component of future-proof networks”. A key focus of the guide is the range of benefits that bend-insensitive fibers can provide.

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wiredInUSA - August 2020