Description
Factory-terminated FTTH drop cable assembly with mixed SC/APC & SC/UPC connector options for fast field installation.
Pre-terminated cables for FTTH are factory-assembled drop cables equipped with SC/APC or SC/UPC connectors, designed for rapid last-mile installation without field splicing or polishing. These assemblies eliminate variability caused by field termination, reduce installation time, and provide consistent optical performance across subscriber households.
In FTTH networks, the drop segment runs between the distribution point (FAT, splitter box, or CTO) and the subscriber premise. Pre-terminated cables simplify this stage by providing factory-polished ends compliant with IEC 61755 and GR-326.
Suggested internal links (your blog/support pages):
- SC/APC vs SC/UPC Fiber Connectors
- APC vs UPC Polish Types
Engineering Structure of Pre-Terminated FTTH Cables
A pre-terminated FTTH drop assembly typically includes:
- SC/APC or SC/UPC connectors
- Bend-insensitive fibers (G.657A2 recommended; G.657B3 optional)
- Flat drop cable jacket (indoor LSZH or outdoor-rated options)
- Strength members selected per route: phosphate steel wires,FRP,KFRP,aramid yarn
- Optional pulling-eye or protection sleeve
- Pre-applied boot and strain relief
- Factory polishing and geometry verification
- 100% IL/RL testing according to IEC 61300-3-4 and GR-326
FTTH cables benefit strongly from pre-termination because subscriber premises often lack controlled environments for splicing or polishing.
Why Pre-Terminated Cable Is Optimal for FTTH
- Removes field termination complexity
No polishing, curing, or mechanical connectors are required. - Shortens installation time
Technicians complete subscriber connection faster with fewer tools. - Ensures consistent optical performance
Factory geometry improves insertion and return loss stability. - Minimizes errors and failure rates
Incorrect cleaving, dirt, and curing issues are eliminated. - Compatible with ONT, wall outlets, and termination boxes
Factory SC/APC or SC/UPC connectors match common FTTH termination hardware.
Key Benefits
- One product family, multiple reinforcement choices: steel wire,FRP,KFRP,aramid yarn—select based on pull force,crush risk,and lightning/EMI requirements
- Plug-and-play installation: reduced tool dependency and faster ONT turn-up
- Stable optical performance: factory-polished ends and 100% IL/RL test process
- Bend-insensitive fiber option: G.657A2 recommended for tight indoor corners and routing around frames
- Connector flexibility: SC/UPC or SC/APC; other interfaces available on request
- Customization: length,boot,staggered ends,protective sleeve,pulling-eye,labeling,packaging
Specifications
A) Performance Characteristics
| Item | SC/APC | SC/UPC |
|---|---|---|
| Insertion Loss (dB) | <0.3 | <0.3 |
| Return Loss (dB) | >65 | >55 |
| Wavelength (nm) | 1310/1550 | 1310/1550 |
| Compliance | GR-326-Core,RoHS | GR-326-Core,RoHS |
Fiber Type Options:G652D,G657A1,G657A2
B) Cable Construction (Flat Drop Platform)
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Cable Type | Pre-Terminated FTTH Flat Drop Cable Assembly |
| Fiber Type Options | OS2:G.652D,G.657A1,G.657A2 (recommended) |
| Fiber Count | 1–4 fibers (common:1F,2F) |
| Jacket Options | LSZH,PVC (indoor);PE/LSZH options by project requirement |
| Connector Options | SC/UPC,SC/APC (others on request:LC,FC) |
| Typical Cable Size | 3×2mm±0.2 (common flat drop profile; confirm by final BOM) |
| Strength Member Options | 0.45mm phosphate steel wires (dual),0.5mm FRP,0.58mm KFRP,aramid yarn (by model) |
| Crush Resistance | Up to 1000N/100mm (typical; depends on reinforcement and jacket) |
| Pulling Force (Handling) | 70N typical handling guideline; for duct pulls use pulling-eye/protection sleeve |
C) Environmental Characteristics
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Operating Temperature | -30°C to +75°C |
| Storage Temperature | -40°C to +75°C |
Pre-Terminated FTTH Cable Types and Applications (Table 1)
| Cable Type | Typical Connector | Best Application |
|---|---|---|
| Outdoor FTTH Drop Cable | SC/APC | FAT-to-home routing via wall,pole,or conduit |
| Indoor Flat Drop Cable | SC/UPC or SC/APC | Apartment units,indoor concealed installation |
| Low-Friction Pulling Cable | SC/APC with pulling eye | Long duct runs from CTO to indoor point |
| Hybrid Flame-Retardant Indoor Cable | SC/APC | MDU risers,hallways,ceilings |
Pre-Terminated vs Field Assembly in FTTH Deployment (Table 2)
| Parameter | Pre-Terminated FTTH Cable | Field-Terminated FTTH Cable |
|---|---|---|
| Optical Performance | Stable low IL,high RL | Variable,dependent on technician skill |
| Installation Speed | Very fast | Slow,requires tools and consumables |
| Consistency | High,factory controlled | Low to medium |
| Best Use Case | Mass FTTH rollout | Repair or limited runs |
Installation Guidelines
- Maintain bend radius (follow cable/fiber recommendation; avoid sharp kinks)
- Insert connectors only after routing is complete
- Use pulling-eyes for ducts longer than 10 meters
- Avoid placing tension on the connector end
- Clean and inspect before mating
- Avoid rotation or twisting during routing
- Seal outdoor entry points against moisture
Where Pre-Terminated FTTH Cables Are Used
- FAT-to-home single subscriber connections
- Multi-dwelling units (MDUs)
- Indoor wall outlet connections
- Outdoor wall surfaces and risers
- Microduct drop connections
- Direct installation from CTO splitter boxes
Application
- FTTx optical network unit (ONU/ONT) service drops
- Broadband networks
- CATV
- Rugged installation environments and high-tension pulls
FAQ
- Why are SC/APC connectors most common in FTTH pre-terminated cables?
They provide low return loss required by PON systems. - Can pre-terminated FTTH cables be used indoors and outdoors?
Yes. Jacket type determines suitability (LSZH for indoor; outdoor jacket options for exposed routing). - Do pre-terminated cables eliminate the need for splicing?
For drop segments, usually yes. - What is the typical insertion loss of such assemblies?
Commonly around 0.2–0.3 dB per connector pair in clean, properly mated conditions. - Can connector length be customized?
Yes, including staggered ends or protection sleeves. - Are pulling eyes necessary?
For ducts, they prevent connector damage and reduce installation risk. - Are these assemblies compliant with IEC and GR standards?
Yes. Factory termination and testing follow IEC 61300/61755 and GR-326 requirements. - Why choose GJXH steel-reinforced flat drop instead of FRP?
Choose steel reinforcement when you expect clamp pressure, abrasion risk, or higher pulling tension and want extra mechanical margin.
Ordering Information (Recommended)
Ordering Code Example:
PT-FLAT-2F-G657A2-LSZH-SCUPC/SCUPC-L030m-SM(0.5FRP)
Strength Member (SM) Options:
SM(0.45SW),SM(0.5FRP),SM(0.58KFRP),SM(ARAMID)
Other Options:PullingEye,ProtectionSleeve,StaggeredEnds,Labeling,Reel/Coil
