Cloud VFL: the solution for high-speed fiber optic network checks

Efficient Detection of Cross Connections in FTTH Networks

In FTTH networks, multiple fiber optics converge from the Point of Presence (POP) into a street cabinet, where they are split and distributed to different homes. There is a risk that a technician could accidentally misconnect a fiber, resulting in a cross-connection. This can result in a situation where a random home is no longer connected, while the real fault is still unresolved, making it difficult to locate and time-consuming to repair. Traditional cross-connection checking requires two technicians and is time-consuming and error-prone. With CloudVFL, one technician suffices, testing remotely via a mobile app, saving time and reducing errors.

Traditional method:

• A technician manually uses a laser pen at one end of the connection.
• A colleague on the other side must determine if the light is coming through. Thus, two mechanics are always needed.
• This process is error-prone, time-consuming and inefficient.

 

CloudVFL solution:

• The technician patches the CloudVFL in the street cabinet, connecting it to all fiber optic cables.
• Then the technician can leave the street cabinet and go to the home.
• Through a mobile app (available for Apple and Android), the technician connects remotely to the CloudVFL.
• At the technician's instruction, the device sends a laser light across the cable, providing instant visibility as to whether the correct cable is connected to the correct home.

What hardware does the CloudVFL consist of

The CloudVFL is designed to be connected to a street cabinet, for example. The CloudVFL consists of three main components:

Key benefits of the CloudVFL

• Efficient and time-saving: Where previously two technicians were needed for a cross-check, now one person can perform the entire process independently
• Cost savings: Less staffing means lower travel and labor costs
• Clean network: The network is delivered without intersections
• Effective network management: customers stay online without interruptions due to crossovers