AFL Launches New RFoG WDM Module

AFL Telecommunications is introducing its newest WDM module supporting the latest platforms in PON technology. The RFoG WDM Module supports wavelength management requirements of 1310, 1490, 1550, 1590 / 1610nm wavelengths. Designed in a traditional LGX® module, virtually all connector types are an option including high density platforms delivering up to three discrete devices in a single-width module.

The RFoG WDM module’s features include flexible packaging options, low excess and PDL (Polarization Dependent Loss) monitoring / tap ports. Applications include FTTx networks, access networks and CATV links. For additional information, www.AFLtele.com.

AFL Expands Interconnect Premise MicroCore™ Cable Product Line

AFL Telecommunications announces the expansion of its Interconnect Premise MicroCore cable product line of high density fiber optic cables. Now encompassing up to 48 optical fibers in a single high performance package, this interconnect cable has an overall diameter of 4.8mm, is approximately 20% smaller than other similar industry solution's and is uniquely suited to support high density array-type MT/MP connectors. Integration of the all-dielectric strength members within the core of the cable enables the potential for direct termination schemes eliminating the need for bulky transitions that rob valuable space. Additionally, the round construction of this line of cables eliminates concerns over preferential bend radii in traditional premise-stacked ribbon designs.

The inclusion of OM3 or OM4 Laser-Optimized 50µm Graded-Index multimode fibers provides a high performance connection to meet the emerging bandwidth demands of 40Gb Ethernet or greater network architectures. For additional information on this product and other fiber optic cables and accessories, visit www.AFLtele.com.

AFL and Winchester Electronics Partner Offering Fujikura Fusion Splicers for Broadcast SMPTE Cable

AFL Telecommunications and Winchester Electronics have partnered to develop a customized Winchester KINGS® brand Fujikura fusion splicing system for installation of their Fiber Optic Tri-Loc® Camera Connectors for SMPTE 311 hybrid fiber optic cable and the AFL FuseConnect™ field installable connectors.

Splicing of the Tri-Loc connector is performed using a special cable clamping system along with fiber holders designed to accept the Tri-Loc termini. This design allows for the use of a standard length connector housing for the connector. Both the V-groove and core alignment splicer models retain standard splicing functionality while incorporating enhanced features to provide the most reliable fusion splicers in the market today. The new rugged construction adds improved reliability by resisting shock, dust and rain.

"Customers using Fiber Optic Tri-Loc Camera Connectors now have an easy and affordable way to install these in the field," said Greg Pickeral, Product Manager of Fusion Splicing Systems at AFL Telecommunications. "Our design retains all the standard functionality of both the 60S and 18S making this a truly versatile tool for those who install the Winchester Tri-Loc connectors or just splice standard fiber optic cables."

Winchester Electronics, a leader in design, development and deployment of interconnect technology, designs and manufactures an extensive range of interconnect products, value-added cable and electromechanical assemblies. In partnering with AFL, Winchester adds a new product to the mix – a fiber optic fusion splicer customized for the broadcast market.

"Winchester is excited to offer our customers the ability to fusion splice our Fiber Optic Tri-Loc Camera Connectors using customized Fujikura splicers," said Mark Yanzo, Marketing Manager for Winchester Electronics. "The partnership of Winchester and AFL delivers the best performance and value in the industry."

The broadcast fusion splicer is available now from Winchester Electronics. For additional information, visit www.AFLtele.com or www.winchesterelectronics.com.

AFL Network Services Connects Buccament Bay Guests with Fiber-to-the-Cabana

Guests at the newly opening Buccament Bay Resort in St. Vincent, The Grenadines, will experience fiber optic-based communications services with the deployment of a Fiber-to-the-Cabana system from Grove Networks, AFL Network Services, and Tellabs.

Like many property owners, Harlequin Hotels & Resorts, the owner of Buccament Bay Resort, understood that deploying traditional copper/coax architecture is not the best option for a new property, especially given the large geographic footprint of Buccament Bay Resort. While working with their technology consultant, Grove Networks of Miami, the Harlequin management team determined that the FTTC (Fiber to the Cabana) architecture had many advantages over a more traditional copper-based network, including delivery of high-bandwidth services to guests, and the ability to upgrade to future services seamlessly, without costly upgrades to existing infrastructure.

"Grove Networks provided a solution delivering all guest services over a common, managed infrastructure, not only providing significant cost savings over a traditional model, but also sufficient capacity for future services without additional infrastructure expense," said Joerg Roterberg, Vice President of Operations for Harlequin Hotels & Resorts. The fact that fiber is naturally immune to electromagnetic interference, lightning, and corrosion from saltwater also contributed to the decision to utilize a fiber, rather than copper architecture.

Grove Networks turned to AFL Network Services for complete design and implementation assistance. As a globally-recognized manufacturer and integrator of fiber optic components, AFL provided a complete package of passive fiber optic components and Gigabit Passive Optical Network (GPON) components in conjunction with Tellabs equipment. Products include cables, closures, splitters, and panels for the passive portion of the network, and the Tellabs 1134 platform at the data center with individual Optical Network Terminals (ONTs) to provide voice, data, and video services for the cabanas.

"The complete package of products and services from AFL has enabled us to put together a state-of-the-art fiber optic infrastructure for Buccament Bay at a very reasonable price point," said Andrew Judge, Founder and CEO of Grove Networks Inc."AFL helped take the uncertainty out of the process, enabling us to build the right network the first time at the right price. The 1134 platform from Tellabs also provides enough room for growth so we know that the platform will serve the needs of our customer well into the future."

Visit AFL Network Services and Tellabs at the HITEC Conference in Orlando, Booth #743.

AFL Telecommunications Presents United Way of the Piedmont With $63K in Campaign Contributions

On May 21, AFL Telecommunications presented a $63,000 check for its annual United Way campaign to Kathy Dunleavy, President and CEO of United Way of the Piedmont. This year’s contribution is an increase of 22% in employee participation and 19% in giving over last year.

“AFL’s associates put forth a great effort in keeping up the momentum this year,” said Corie Culp, community relations manager of AFL Telecommunications. “As the economy struggles to regain strength, non-profit organizations have a larger burden to bear. We are committed to engaging AFL associates to make a difference in our community and in the lives of our citizens by getting involved with United Way and the agencies it serves.”

AFL kicked off its campaign with a corporate contribution of $5,000. To engage employees, AFL provided opportunities to learn about services in the area, participate in various events to raise funds, and be a part of team challenges. AFL ambassadors were recruited internally to answer questions and talk with other associates about United Way and its mission, as well as encourage associates to donate. An Agency Fair was held in April where 16 agencies from both Spartanburg and Greenville were invited set up a display and talk with associates about what they do, what their needs are and how they can help. AFL hosted a pancake breakfast, a chili competition and a company carnival where associates competed for prizes and bragging rights with a Wii Band Hero® and bowling competition, basketball hoops, speed pitch, and soccer kick and score. To further enhance the campaign, AFL matched, dollar for dollar, all monies donated over last year’s employee contributions.

“As we plan our annual United Way campaign, we want to make sure we are educating our associates about United Way and local agencies and generating excitement in giving time and resources to help others in need,” said Sherise Brown, Human Resources Director. “We’re pleased to continue supporting United Way year after year and we thank our employees for helping make a difference in the lives of so many people.”

AFL Announces 2010 Naruse Scholarship Recipient

AFL Telecommunications presented the 2010 - 2011 Naruse Scholarship Award last week to Brian Foley, son of Sean Foley, Market Development Manager for AFL's R&D Center and an AFL associate of 12 years. Brian is a graduating senior of JL Mann High School where he is ranked in the top 10 of his class. During his high school career, he was awarded "AP Scholar with Distinction", National Merit Scholar Letter of Commendation, and 1st place in a local Law Day Essay contest. He received recognition from several regional colleges for his academic achievements including the Washington and Lee Book Award, Furman Scholar, Wofford Scholar and Presbyterian College Fellow.

Brian is actively involved in high school through his participation in cross country, speech and debate and as captain of the academic team. Outside of school, he serves his church as an usher and a Peer Minister for his youth group. He is a Boy Scout and earned the rank of Eagle at age 16. His Eagle Scout project involved building a dock and beautifying the area at Paris Mountain’s Lake Buckhorn. The project included 70 hours of planning and personal effort, as well as managing over 190 volunteer man-hours. As part of the Student Conservation Association, he spent the last two summers living in wilderness areas for three to four weeks each building trails in Vermont and Alaska.

Brian received appointments to the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, MD and the United States Military Academy in West Point, NY and was accepted into Clemson, Georgia Tech, Duke and University of Penn. He chose to attend MIT this fall, where he plans to major in mechanical engineering.

The Naruse Scholarship Fund is administered by the Center for Scholarship Administration located in Greenville, South Carolina. Rising seniors of AFL associates are eligible for up to $2,000 per year, with a cap of $8,000 per student per year over a four-year period. The award is applied to the cost of tuition, room and board, fees, books and supplies.

AFL and Tellabs® Collaborate to Build Next Gen Networks

AFL and Tellabs today announced a partnership to build next generation networks combining the fiber optic products, engineering expertise, and integrated services of AFL with Tellabs optical and access products. By combining resources, both companies now offer best-in-class technology with comprehensive solutions to assist customers specifically for Smart Grid and Broadband Stimulus applications.

"Adding Tellabs expertise with GPON and Transport solutions to AFL’s strengths in product manufacturing, engineering and installation, we are able to provide full network design and business case tools to initiate, complement or upgrade next-generation networks," said Steve Maederer, National Sales Manager, Utilities for AFL. "The AFL and Tellabs partnership provides a unique value proposition including design, world class product solutions, and installation services for transport and access networks."

As a team, AFL and Tellabs will provide design assistance for access and transport networks, all passive network components including aerial and underground cabling solutions, closures, splitters and cabinets, the Tellabs® 1100 Multiservice Access Series and Tellabs® 7100 Optical Transport System platforms, and installation and provisioning services.

AFL and Tellabs will be exhibiting at the UTC Expo, Booth #314, in Indianapolis. For additional information, visit us online at AFLtele.com/go/Tellabs or Tellabs at www.tellabs.com/markets/ioc/stimulus.shtml