In today’s digitally connected world, the key underlying element is data. The question that everyone around the world is seeking an answer to is- how can data transmission be maximized using the minimum space incurring minimum losses? Companies around the globe have been engaged in coming up with innovative solutions to address this question right from the advent of fiber optics.

Ribbon cables having high fiber counts are commonly used for high-density data transmission. They are typically very cost-competitive in high fiber counts as they offer a greater packing density that enables efficient use of limited duct space. In the recent past, however, another family of optical fiber cables have started to gain traction for high-density data transmission- Micromodule Cables.

Micromodule cables are high-density optical cables that have a number of individual micromodules as opposed to loose tubes in conventional cables. The micromodules typically include optical fibers arranged in a sheath for transmitting optical data and are housed in a cable jacket. Micromodule cables are typically designed for outdoor applications and are capable of transmitting large amounts of data.

There are several benefits offered by micromodule cables that are enabling them to become noticeable across the telecom industry. First, they enable transmission of large amounts of data. Second, they typically have lower diameters than comparable conventional cables leading to better utilization of limited space available. Third, they are bend-insensitive and kink-resistant. Finally, they offer easy mid-span access that makes them easy to manage and install. Due to these multiple advantages, these cables are increasingly being adopted in more and more countries. Currently, they have gained widespread acceptance in Western Europe and fast catching up in other parts of Europe as well.

Keeping abreast with these developments around the world, HFCL has been working on developing micromodule cables suited to various applications including backbone networks, data centers, duct and overhead applications. Our dedicated Research and Development team has been successful in developing over 20 variants across all of these applications over the last couple of years and HFCL has successfully supplied them to prominent customers across the world.

Recently, we have developed 864-fiber count micromodule cables that marks a big achievement in our endeavor to develop high-fiber count micromodule cables. Through this development, we have been able to achieve a reduction of 24% in cable diameter over conventional cables, making them more space-optimized, light-weight and easy to transport. The faster and easier mid-span access with effortless peeling makes them easy to install in fiber distribution and termination units. Further, these cables are marked by their resistance to kinks, UV protection, inhibition to longitudinal water penetration in cables and being jelly-free. Due to all these features, they are highly suited to backbone, access and distribution networks with typical installation within ducts.

With the development of 864-fiber count micromodule cables, HFCL has made a major stride in developing high-fiber count micromodule cables for the 5G revolution and now has its target set on achieving 1000+ fiber count within the micromodule family soon.