LXE - A Fiber-Optic Cable Sheath Family with Enhanced Fiber Access

As fiber-optic transmission penetrates the loop distribution network, frequent sheath entry for splicing into a tapered network will be required. A cable design maintaining strength-member continuity through the splice closure particularly suits applications with many branch splices. A new cable sheath family called LXE addresses this need by placing two opposed linear strength members outside the cable core in a plane passing through the neutral axis of the cable. The family includes nonmetallic, metallic and rodent-lightning armored constructions. These sheath designs are used with the proven Lightpack(R) cable core construction with up to 96 fibers and were evaluated with laboratory testing and fields installations. Mechanical and optical performance is excellent, completely consistent with current industry standards for long-haul and trunk cables. The LXE Lightpack(R) cable family offers standard performance and easy entry in a compact size suitable for underground, buried, and serial applications.