Fiber Distribution Panel targets central offices.

Press Release Summary:



Offering advanced cable management features, 288-port Fiber Distribution System provides modular approach that supports upgrades as future growth dictates. Building block consists of 12-port distribution cassette, which supports all media types from IFC to OSP fiber in ribbon and loose-tube constructions. It allows users to configure panel in increments of 12, providing scalability from 12-288 without jeopardizing port density.



Original Press Release:



APA Cables & Networks Unveils 288-Port Fiber Distribution Panel for Central Office Use



Customizable Fiber Cable Panel is One of Densest in the Industry; Modular Design Allows Telcos, CLECs, MSOs to Expand Capacity as Needed

PLYMOUTH, Minn., June 20 / -- APA Cables & Networks (NASDAQ:APAT) (APACN), a leading provider of fiber connectivity systems for Fiber-to-the-x (FTTx) networks and wholly owned subsidiary of APA Enterprises, Inc., today announced its 288-Port Fiber Distribution System (FDS), the latest addition to its line of high-density fiber distribution frames and panels. Offering advanced cable management features and easy accessibility, the 288- Port FDS combines exceptional circuit density with a modular "grow-as-you-go" approach that supports fast, easy upgrades as future growth dictates.

The newest member to the APACN product line is being featured at the SCTE's Cable-Tec Expo in APACN's booth, #1305, June 21-23 in Denver, Colorado.

"Being at the forefront of FTTx deployments has given APA Cables & Networks a unique perspective on the developing trend of networks being deployed in a variety of ways," commented Cheri Podzimek, president of APA Cables & Networks. "These different architectures are putting an increased demand for density in the Central Office, and this need drove the design of the APACN 288 panel."

The 288-Port FDS's building block is the 12-port distribution cassette. Supporting all media types from IFC to OSP fiber in both ribbon and loose-tube constructions, the cassette allows the user to configure the panel in increments of 12, providing scalability from 12 to 288 without jeopardizing port density. In its full 288 port configuration, the 11-inch high footprint is the highest density solution on the market.

APACN's 288-Port panel supports a maximum density of 1728 ports in a patch-only option on a standard 7 foot frame. Patch and splice configurations, deployed with a separate 144-fiber splice deck, provide up to 864 on-frame patch and splice ports in a standard 7 foot frame. All industry standard connectors (LC, SC APC, SC UPC) are supported.

Time, Inventory Savings
The 12-port cassette used in the 288-Port FDS is also the basic component utilized in APACN's Fiber Scalability Center (FSC), APACN's line of Outside Plant (OSP) cabinets. This commonality of parts enables:
-- lower installation time due to the technician's knowledge and familiarity of the part; and
-- reduced inventory and faster network growth, since a single stock part can satisfy both inside plant and outside plant applications.

Protection, Ease of Use
As with all APACN fiber management products, the 288-Port FDS incorporates unique features that reduce the risk of damage to revenue-generating circuits. Route diversity, bend radius protection and a hinged/removable front cover offer easy accessibility and faster installation, repair or cleaning of fibers.

Configuration Design Services
APACN is able to configure its products to fit specific user needs, and invites service providers to submit their design requirements. Due to the unique modularity of the APACN platform design and the company's commitment to meeting the unique needs of each individual customer, customized rack elevation drawings, providing visualization of your specific customer network requirements, are available without charge.

Now Available
The 288-Port FDS is now available and ships with factory terminated assemblies to save time and expense. For more information, please visit APA Cables & Networks at www.apacn.com/ .

About APA Cables & Networks, Inc.
APA Cables & Networks (APACN) is a leading provider of fiber connectivity systems designed to meet the unique and demanding requirements of today's independent telephone, cable television and municipal networks. The APACN product line, including fiber frames and panels, OSP cabinets and optical components, offers an innovative, modular and scalable platform designed for use in central office and OSP architectures and has successfully been deployed in some of the harshest of Fiber-to-the-x (FTTx) environments. A full-line of fiber and copper assemblies complements the APACN solution. To learn more, please visit www.apacn.com/ .

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