Bend Insensitive Singlemode Fibre: Benefits, Standards and Applications
Bend Insensitive Singlemode Fibre reduces the additional optical loss caused by tight bends, compact routing and congested fibre management. Consequently, it provides a valuable performance advantage in telecommunications networks, data centres, buildings, fibre access systems and constrained cable pathways.
However, bend-insensitive glass does not remove every cable-bending restriction. Installers must still observe the minimum bend radius specified for the complete cable, protect it from mechanical damage and follow the manufacturer’s installation requirements.
Importantly, Anderson Corporation has standardised on G.657.A2 bend-insensitive glass in the RapidConnect TR-Series Singlemode Mini Loose Tube Fibre Optic Cable. Therefore, customers receive enhanced macrobend performance as a standard product feature rather than as a special-order upgrade.
For further guidance, visit the Anderson Corporation Mini Loose Tube Fibre Optic Cable Authority Hub. Alternatively, if a project requires factory-terminated cables manufactured to specified lengths, connector types and breakout configurations, explore the Pre-Terminated Fibre Optic Cable Authority Hub.
This guide explains how bend-insensitive singlemode fibre works, how the G.657 categories differ and where G.657.A2 can improve network reliability.
What Is Bend Insensitive Singlemode Fibre?
Bend Insensitive Singlemode Fibre is optical fibre designed to limit the additional attenuation that occurs when the glass bends.
Standard singlemode fibre already provides excellent transmission performance. Nevertheless, light can escape from the guided optical path when a fibre bends too tightly. This effect becomes particularly important at longer operating wavelengths and in confined locations where fibres pass around corners, through closures or within crowded enclosures.
Bend-insensitive fibre uses an optimised refractive-index profile to improve optical confinement. Depending on the fibre design, this may include a trench-assisted structure surrounding the core.
As a result, the fibre retains more optical power when exposed to controlled small-radius bends than conventional singlemode fibre. Therefore, this characteristic can provide greater installation tolerance while reducing the risk of hidden bend-related loss.
The International Telecommunication Union defines the relevant characteristics through ITU-T Recommendation G.657, which covers bending-loss-insensitive singlemode optical fibre and cable.
What Is Macrobending Loss?
Macrobending loss occurs when optical fibre follows a visible curve or loop with a radius small enough to allow some guided light to escape.
For example, common causes include:
- Fibre stored too tightly inside a splice tray
- Patch leads compressed behind active equipment
- Cable pulled around a sharp corner
- Fibre routed against the edge of an enclosure
- Overtightened cable ties
- Congested fibre-management systems
- Excessive slack forced into a small space
- Fibre trapped beneath an enclosure cover
- Poor routing inside pits, cabinets or closures
Generally, macrobending loss becomes more pronounced at longer wavelengths. Therefore, a bend that appears acceptable during testing at 1310 nm may produce greater loss at 1550 nm or 1625 nm.
This wavelength-dependent behaviour can help technicians identify a suspected macrobend during OTDR testing. However, technicians must interpret the trace in the context of the complete cable route and test configuration.
Macrobending Versus Microbending
Although the terms sound similar, macrobending and microbending describe different physical conditions.
Macrobending results from a visible curve, loop or change in the fibre’s routing radius. In contrast, microbending results from small, localised distortions or pressure points along the glass.
For instance, microbending may arise from:
- Excessive manufacturing pressure
- Cable contraction at low temperatures
- Poor buffer or jacket design
- Crush loads
- Overtightened cable restraints
- Irregular contact between cable components
- Localised mechanical pressure
Bend-insensitive glass primarily improves macrobending performance. However, it does not compensate for poor cable construction, excessive crushing, unsuitable installation hardware or uncontrolled mechanical stress.
Therefore, designers must assess the complete cable construction rather than select a product solely because it contains G.657 fibre.
Why Does Singlemode Fibre Lose Light When Bent?
Singlemode fibre guides light through a core surrounded by cladding with a lower refractive index. Accordingly, this refractive-index relationship helps keep the optical signal confined within the guided mode.
However, when the fibre bends sharply, the conditions supporting that guided mode change. Consequently, part of the optical field can extend beyond the region where it remains effectively confined. Some optical power then radiates away, which appears as increased attenuation.
Bend-insensitive fibre modifies the refractive-index profile to strengthen optical confinement. As a result, less power escapes under the bend conditions defined by the applicable standard.
Nevertheless, no optical fibre is completely immune to bending loss. A sufficiently tight, repeated or mechanically damaging bend can still affect performance and reliability.
Understanding the ITU-T G.657 Categories
ITU-T G.657 divides bend-insensitive singlemode fibre into two main categories: Category A and Category B.
G.657 Category A
Category A fibres provide improved bending performance while retaining compatibility with conventional G.652 singlemode fibre characteristics.
The two principal subcategories are:
- G.657.A1
- G.657.A2
G.657.A1 improves macrobending performance compared with conventional G.652 fibre. However, G.657.A2 must meet more demanding macrobending requirements at smaller specified bend radii.
Consequently, G.657.A2 can provide an effective balance between:
- Compatibility with established singlemode networks
- Improved bend-loss performance
- Suitability for access and general network applications
- Greater installation tolerance in constrained pathways
- Use across a wide range of cable constructions
G.657 Category B
Category B fibres are designed for very low bending loss at small radii, particularly across shorter distances inside buildings or near the termination end of an access network.
The principal subcategories are:
- G.657.B2
- G.657.B3
G.657.B3 provides the most demanding small-radius macrobending performance within the G.657 categories. However, Category B fibres do not provide the same general G.652 compatibility requirements as Category A fibres.
Therefore, a smaller specified test radius does not automatically make Category B the correct choice for every cable or network.
Comparing G.657 Fibre Categories
| Fibre category | Representative specified bend radius | General positioning | G.652 compatibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| G.657.A1 | 10 mm | Improved bend performance for access and general networks | Yes |
| G.657.A2 | 7.5 mm | Enhanced bend performance for constrained routes and compact infrastructure | Yes |
| G.657.B2 | 7.5 mm | Very low bend loss for shorter access and building applications | Not necessarily |
| G.657.B3 | 5 mm | Extremely bend-tolerant fibre for specialised compact applications | Not necessarily |
Importantly, these radii relate to defined macrobending tests within the ITU-T Recommendation. Therefore, installers must not treat them as universal installation radii for every finished cable.
A cable manufacturer may specify a larger minimum bend radius according to:
- Overall cable diameter
- Jacket material
- Loose-tube construction
- Strength members
- Armour
- Installation tension
- Whether the cable is loaded or unloaded
- Environmental conditions
Accordingly, installers must always follow the bend-radius specification for the complete cable or assembly.
Why Anderson Corporation Standardises on G.657.A2 Glass
Anderson Corporation has selected G.657.A2 as the standard singlemode fibre glass for many RapidConnect cable systems because it combines enhanced bend performance with broad network compatibility.
Most importantly, the RapidConnect TR-Series Singlemode Mini Loose Tube Fibre Optic Cable contains G.657.A2 bend-insensitive glass as standard.
This product decision provides several practical advantages:
- Greater resistance to bend-related attenuation
- Compatibility with existing G.652 singlemode infrastructure
- Improved tolerance in congested ducts and pathways
- Enhanced performance within pits, closures and enclosures
- Suitability for access, telecommunications and infrastructure networks
- Reduced dependence on special-order fibre upgrades
- A consistent singlemode fibre specification across projects
Because G.657.A2 belongs to Category A, it offers the compatibility required for general network applications while providing stronger macrobending performance than G.657.A1.
However, the glass specification remains only one part of the cable design. Installers must also consider tensile rating, crush resistance, water-blocking construction, jacket material, cable diameter and environmental suitability.
The Mini Loose Tube Fibre Optic Cable Authority Hub explains how the RapidConnect TR-Series combines compact cable construction with pathway efficiency, mechanical protection and application-specific jacket options.
G.657.A2 Versus G.652.D Singlemode Fibre
G.652.D remains a widely used singlemode fibre specification for telecommunications and general optical networks. Furthermore, it provides low-water-peak performance and supports transmission across commonly used singlemode wavelengths.
G.657.A2 does not simply replace G.652.D because it has a smaller specified bend radius. Instead, it extends practical installation capability by adding enhanced macrobending performance while maintaining Category A compatibility.
| Feature | G.657.A2 | G.652.D |
|---|---|---|
| Fibre type | Bend-insensitive-insensitive singlemode | Conventional low-water-peak singlemode |
| G.652 compatibility | Yes | Native G.652 fibre |
| Representative bend-test radius | 7.5 mm | Typically assessed at larger radii |
| Bend-loss performance | Enhanced | More sensitive to tight bends |
| General network use | Yes | Yes |
| Constrained pathways | Particularly advantageous | Requires greater bend control |
| Access networks | Well suited | Commonly used |
| Longer transmission routes | Suitable when system requirements are met | Widely used |
The legacy article described G.652 fibre as being used for long-haul networks and G.657 fibre as being used for access networks. However, this distinction is too rigid.
In practice, engineers should select fibre according to the complete optical, mechanical and network specification. For example, G.657 Category A fibre can support applications beyond the final access drop. Similarly, G.652.D remains suitable for many access and general telecommunications routes.
Therefore, the better question is not simply whether G.657 is “better” than G.652. Instead, designers should determine which fibre satisfies the transmission performance, compatibility, bend-loss limits and cable-construction requirements of the project.
Benefits of G.657.A2 Bend-Insensitive Fibre
Reduced Bend-Related Attenuation
G.657.A2 fibre provides enhanced optical confinement under defined bending conditions. Consequently, it reduces the likelihood that a controlled tight bend will introduce excessive attenuation.
This improvement can prove especially valuable at 1550 nm and other longer wavelengths, where macrobending loss generally becomes more pronounced.
Greater Installation Tolerance
Real cable routes do not always provide generous, perfectly controlled pathways. For example, installers may need to route cable through congested ducts, small pits, narrow cabinets or compact communications enclosures.
Although good installation practice remains essential, G.657.A2 provides an additional level of tolerance when available space is restricted.
Compatibility With Existing Networks
Because G.657.A2 belongs to Category A, it maintains compatibility with G.652 fibre characteristics. Therefore, installers can splice and connect it within established singlemode networks, subject to the normal equipment, connector and project requirements.
Improved Performance in Compact Infrastructure
Modern fibre networks often require more connections within a limited physical area. As density increases, technicians have less room for fibre storage and routing.
Consequently, G.657.A2 can help reduce the optical consequences of compact fibre management. Nevertheless, enclosure designers and installers must still prevent sharp edges, crushing and uncontrolled mechanical stress.
Reduced Risk of Latent Faults
A bend-related fault may not always produce an immediate fibre break. Instead, it may introduce additional loss that becomes apparent only after:
- A wavelength upgrade
- Further patching
- Connector contamination
- Network expansion
- Environmental movement
- A reduction in the available optical margin
By limiting bend-related attenuation, G.657.A2 can therefore help preserve more of the network’s optical-loss margin.
Greater Flexibility for Future Network Use
A cable route initially commissioned at 1310 nm may later support systems operating at longer wavelengths. Because bend losses can increase with wavelength, enhanced macrobending performance can provide additional protection for future services.
However, designers must still confirm that every component in the route supports the proposed wavelengths and transmission system.
While bend-insensitive optical fibre delivers significant installation and performance advantages, the overall cable construction is equally important for long-term outdoor reliability. Our Mini Loose Tube Fibre Optic Cable Authority Hub explains how G.657.A2 bend-insensitive optical fibre combines with advanced cable engineering, including Water Blocking Technology, Triple Protection Technology and premium PA12 Blue Nylon jackets, to create durable outdoor fibre optic cables for Australian telecommunications networks.
Applications of Bend Insensitive Singlemode Fibre
Mini Loose Tube Fibre Optic Cable
Compact mini loose-tube cable can improve pathway utilisation in congested ducts, pits and telecommunications routes.
When the cable also contains G.657.A2 glass, it combines a compact physical construction with enhanced macrobending performance. Consequently, the design provides additional installation tolerance where pathway space and routing geometry are constrained.
The RapidConnect TR-Series may suit applications including:
- Telecommunications infrastructure
- Campus fibre networks
- External ducts
- Building interconnections
- Industrial communications
- Utility networks
- Security and surveillance systems
- Access networks
- Fibre distribution routes
However, project teams must select the correct TR-Series construction and jacket material for the intended environment.
Pre-Terminated Fibre Optic Cable
Bend-insensitive glass can also provide valuable protection within a pre-terminated assembly, particularly around breakouts, pulling socks, enclosures and equipment interfaces.
Factory-terminated cable systems can reduce field termination, provide documented test results and accelerate installation. Nevertheless, contractors must specify the cable correctly before manufacture.
Important details include:
- Route length
- Fibre count
- Connector types
- Connector polish
- Breakout length
- Pulling direction
- Protective pulling-eye requirements
- Enclosure interfaces
- Pathway dimensions
- Cable construction
- Required fibre type
For comprehensive specification guidance, visit the Anderson Corporation Pre-Terminated Fibre Optic Cable Authority Hub.
Fibre to the Home and Access Networks
FTTH and other access networks frequently route fibre through compact pathways, wall cavities, distribution boxes and subscriber premises.
Therefore, G.657 fibre can reduce bend-related loss where technicians must navigate corners and confined termination points.
However, designers must select the appropriate G.657 category. While Category B fibre may suit specialised short-reach applications, G.657.A2 offers broader compatibility for general cable infrastructure.
GPON and XGS-PON Networks
Passive Optical Networks can have limited optical-loss margins because splitters introduce substantial insertion loss.
Consequently, an avoidable macrobend can consume valuable system margin. G.657.A2 fibre can help reduce this risk in feeder, distribution and access infrastructure where the cable construction and network requirements permit its use.
Nevertheless, engineers must calculate the complete Optical Distribution Network loss, including:
- Fibre attenuation
- PLC splitter loss
- Connector loss
- Splice loss
- Coexistence-component loss
- Engineering margin
- Future repair allowance
Data Centres
Data centres contain high cable densities, crowded pathways and numerous equipment interfaces. Therefore, bend-insensitive fibre can provide additional resilience in patching areas, distribution frames and fibre-management systems.
However, installers must never use G.657 performance as a reason to overfill pathways or disregard cable-management requirements.
Enterprise and Campus Networks
Enterprise facilities, universities, hospitals and large campuses often require fibre links between buildings, communications rooms and equipment locations.
In these environments, G.657.A2 can support both external cable routes and compact internal fibre management. Furthermore, its G.652 compatibility helps integrate new infrastructure with established singlemode networks.
Telecommunications Cabinets and Enclosures
Street cabinets, pits, closures and wall-mounted enclosures often provide limited room for fibre routing and storage.
Bend-insensitive glass can reduce optical loss from controlled compact routing. Nevertheless, the enclosure must still provide:
- Suitable bend-radius management
- Cable strain relief
- Secure fibre storage
- Environmental protection
- Clear port identification
- Safe maintenance access
Industrial and Utility Networks
Industrial sites and utility networks may present congested pathways, restricted cabinets and challenging installation conditions.
Although G.657.A2 can improve bend-loss performance, designers must also consider temperature, moisture, chemicals, UV exposure, rodents, crushing, pulling tension and electromagnetic conditions when selecting the complete cable.
Bend-Insensitive Fibre in Fibre Optic Patch Leads
Fibre optic patch leads often pass through congested cabinets, shallow enclosures and high-density patching areas. Consequently, they may encounter tighter routing conditions than fixed backbone cables. G.657.A2 bend-insensitive glass provides greater resistance to macrobending loss in these environments. However, installers must still follow the minimum bend radius specified for the complete connectorised assembly.
Importantly, every RapidConnect Fibre Optic Patch Lead manufactured with singlemode fibre contains G.657.A2 bend-insensitive glass as standard. Therefore, customers receive enhanced macrobending performance without requesting a separate fibre upgrade. These patch leads are also factory terminated, optically tested and supplied with individual test results.
Bend-Insensitive Fibre Does Not Eliminate Cable Bend Limits
One of the most important distinctions involves the difference between the fibre’s macrobending performance and the cable’s minimum bend radius.
A loose-tube cable contains more than optical glass. Depending on its construction, it may also contain:
- A loose buffer tube
- Water-blocking materials
- Aramid yarn
- Strength members
- Ripcords
- Bedding layers
- Armour
- Inner and outer jackets
Each component influences the cable’s mechanical behaviour.
Therefore, installers must not automatically bend a cable containing G.657.A2 fibre to a radius of 7.5 mm. The finished cable may require a considerably larger radius, particularly while it remains under pulling tension.
The project specification should distinguish between:
- Fibre macrobending test radius
- Cable bend radius during installation
- Cable bend radius after installation
- Connectorised assembly bend requirements
- Breakout and fan-out tube bend requirements
Ultimately, this distinction protects both optical performance and long-term mechanical reliability.
Splicing G.657.A2 to G.652.D Fibre
Technicians can generally fusion splice G.657.A2 fibre to G.652.D fibre using standard singlemode fusion-splicing equipment and appropriate splicing programs.
However, technicians should use suitable preparation, alignment and testing procedures. They should also recognise that an OTDR may display an apparent gain or exaggerated loss when two fibres with different mode-field characteristics are tested from only one direction.
Therefore, bidirectional OTDR testing can provide a more representative assessment of the actual splice loss. Technicians can average the two directional measurements to reduce the effect of mode-field mismatch on the displayed result.
Additionally, the splice must receive suitable mechanical protection and storage within a correctly designed tray.
Connector Compatibility
G.657.A2 does not require a unique connector family. In practice, depending on the system, it can be terminated with standard singlemode connector types such as:
- LC/UPC
- SC/UPC
- SC/APC
- FC/UPC
- FC/APC
- Other project-specified singlemode interfaces
However, connector type and connector polish remain separate considerations.
For example, installers must not mate APC and UPC connectors together. Their ferrule end-face geometries differ; consequently, incorrect mating may introduce substantial insertion loss, produce poor return loss and damage both connector surfaces.
Additionally, installers should inspect, clean and reinspect every connector before mating.
Testing Bend Insensitive Singlemode Fibre
Commissioning should verify the complete installed route rather than relying solely on the fibre designation.
Insertion-Loss Testing
A calibrated optical light source and power meter can measure the end-to-end loss of the completed link.
Depending on the network specification, technicians may test at:
- 1310 nm
- 1550 nm
- 1625 nm
- Other system-specific wavelengths
Testing at both 1310 nm and 1550 nm can provide useful information because macrobending loss commonly becomes more visible at the longer wavelength.
Furthermore, technicians should compare the measured result against the calculated loss budget and project acceptance criteria.
OTDR Testing
An Optical Time-Domain Reflectometer can help locate:
- Fibre breaks
- Connector events
- Fusion splices
- Reflective events
- Localised high-loss points
- Macrobends
- Incorrect route lengths
A suspected macrobend may show greater loss at 1550 nm than at 1310 nm. However, technicians should not classify an event solely from this pattern without considering splices, connectors, wavelength settings and the surrounding cable route.
Retaining Commissioning Records
In addition, installers should retain:
- Insertion-loss results
- OTDR traces
- Fibre identification
- Test wavelengths
- Reference method
- Equipment details
- Calibration status
- Route information
- Acceptance criteria
Consequently, these records establish a valuable baseline for future maintenance, fault-finding and network upgrades.
Common Misunderstandings About G.657 Fibre
“Bend Insensitive” Means the Fibre Cannot Be Damaged by Bending
This statement is incorrect.
G.657 fibre remains made from glass. Therefore, excessive mechanical stress, extremely tight bends or poor handling can still cause attenuation, coating damage or fibre failure.
G.657.A2 Has a Universal 7.5 mm Cable Bend Radius
This statement is also incorrect.
The 7.5 mm value relates to specified fibre macrobending tests. In contrast, the complete cable may require a substantially larger installation radius.
G.657 Always Outperforms G.652 in Every Application
Not necessarily.
Fibre selection must consider transmission requirements, compatibility, cable design, approved-product requirements and the complete network environment. Nevertheless, G.657.A2 provides a particularly practical option because it combines enhanced bend performance with G.652 compatibility.
G.657 Fibre Does Not Require Proper Fibre Management
This belief is incorrect.
Bend-insensitive glass provides additional tolerance. However, it does not replace suitable trays, guides, pathways, strain relief or trained installation practices.
All G.657 Categories Are Interchangeable
They are not.
Category A and Category B fibres have different compatibility and application requirements. Therefore, designers should specify the complete fibre designation rather than simply requesting “G.657 fibre.”
Selecting a Bend-Insensitive Fibre Cable
First, before selecting a cable, confirm:
- Required G.657 category
- Compatibility with existing fibre
- Installation environment
- Indoor, outdoor or indoor/outdoor requirements
- Fibre count
- Cable diameter
- Tensile rating
- Crush resistance
- Water-blocking construction
- Jacket material
- UV resistance
- Rodent or termite risks
- Installation and operating temperatures
- Loaded and unloaded bend radii
- Required approvals
- Testing and documentation requirements
For pre-terminated assemblies, also confirm:
- Cable length
- Connector type and polish
- Connector orientation
- Breakout length
- Pulling direction
- Pulling-eye configuration
- Enclosure interfaces
- Fibre identification
- Factory-test requirements
Consequently, the most appropriate solution depends on the complete pathway and network design rather than the optical glass alone.
Why Choose RapidConnect G.657.A2 Fibre Cable?
RapidConnect singlemode fibre cable systems provide a practical combination of optical compatibility, installation flexibility and application-specific cable construction.
In particular, the RapidConnect TR-Series Singlemode Mini Loose Tube Fibre Optic Cable contains G.657.A2 bend-insensitive glass as standard.
Accordingly, customers do not need to request G.657.A2 as an optional glass upgrade when ordering the standard singlemode TR-Series product.
Depending on the selected construction, the RapidConnect TR-Series can provide:
- Compact mini loose-tube design
- Reduced cable diameter
- Efficient duct and pathway utilisation
- G.657.A2 bend-insensitive singlemode glass as standard
- Water-blocking construction
- Application-specific jacket options
- Multiple fibre-count configurations
- Suitability for telecommunications and infrastructure networks
However, the final product selection must reflect the pathway, mechanical loads, environmental exposure and project specification.
Anderson Corporation can also manufacture pre-terminated fibre cable assemblies using suitable cable constructions, connector interfaces, breakout arrangements and protective installation hardware.
Bend-insensitive fibre also plays an important role in modern compact outdoor cable design. In Mini Loose Tube construction, G.657.A2 fibre combines enhanced resistance to bend-induced loss with efficient fibre packaging, helping engineers achieve higher fibre density while maintaining reliable optical performance. Our Why G.657.A2 Optical Fibre Is Ideal for Mini Loose Tube Fibre Optic Cable guide explores how these characteristics work together in outdoor duct and conduit networks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the principal benefit of Bend Insensitive Singlemode Fibre?
Its principal benefit is lower additional attenuation under defined small-radius bending conditions. Consequently, it provides greater tolerance in compact pathways, crowded enclosures and high-density fibre-management systems.
What is the difference between G.657.A1 and G.657.A2?
Both are Category A fibres compatible with G.652 network characteristics. However, G.657.A2 must satisfy more demanding macrobending requirements at smaller specified radii.
Is G.657.A2 compatible with G.652.D fibre?
Yes. G.657 Category A fibres are designed to maintain compatibility with G.652 singlemode fibre characteristics. Therefore, G.657.A2 can be integrated with existing G.652.D infrastructure, subject to normal network-design and testing requirements.
Does the TR-Series Singlemode Mini Loose Tube Cable use G.657.A2 glass?
Can a G.657.A2 cable be bent to a 7.5 mm radius?
Not necessarily. The 7.5 mm value relates to specified macrobending performance for the optical fibre. Therefore, installers must follow the minimum bend radius stated for the complete cable.
Is G.657.A2 suitable for outdoor cable?
Yes, manufacturers can incorporate G.657.A2 glass into outdoor cable. However, outdoor suitability depends on the complete cable construction, including its jacket, water blocking, tensile strength, crush resistance and environmental performance.
Does G.657.A2 require special connectors?
No. G.657.A2 can use standard singlemode connector types. Nevertheless, the selected connector and polish must match the equipment and network specification.
Can G.657.A2 be fusion spliced to G.652.D?
Yes. Technicians can fusion splice G.657.A2 to G.652.D using suitable singlemode splicing programs and established preparation procedures.
Does bend-insensitive fibre improve the optical power budget?
It does not reduce the normal attenuation of every network component. However, by limiting additional macrobending loss, it can help protect the optical margin from avoidable bend-related attenuation.
Is G.657.B3 better than G.657.A2?
Not automatically. G.657.B3 provides more demanding small-radius bend performance. However, it does not carry the same general G.652 compatibility requirement as Category A fibre. Therefore, the correct choice depends on the network application.
Conclusion
Bend Insensitive Singlemode Fibre can reduce bend-related attenuation and provide greater installation tolerance across access, telecommunications, enterprise, data-centre and infrastructure networks.
However, specifying “bend-insensitive fibre” alone does not provide enough information. Designers should identify the complete ITU-T category, confirm compatibility with the existing network and assess the mechanical construction of the finished cable.
G.657.A2 provides a strong balance of enhanced macrobending performance and G.652 compatibility. For this reason, Anderson Corporation supplies G.657.A2 bend-insensitive glass as standard in the RapidConnect TR-Series Singlemode Mini Loose Tube Fibre Optic Cable.
For detailed cable-construction, pathway-planning and environmental-selection guidance, visit the Mini Loose Tube Fibre Optic Cable Authority Hub. Alternatively, explore the Pre-Terminated Fibre Optic Cable Authority Hub for factory-terminated fibre systems designed around defined routes, connectors and installation requirements.
Finally, contact Anderson Corporation for assistance selecting a RapidConnect G.657.A2 cable or pre-terminated fibre solution for your next project.