Fiber Distribution Cabinets: A Guide to Classification

A fiber distribution cabinet (FDC) is a device that connects and distributes fiber optic cables and fibers in a fiber optic network. FDCs are essential for ensuring the reliability, security, and efficiency of the network. There are different types of FDCs, depending on their location, installation, and capacity. In this article, I will introduce some of the most common types of FDCs and their features.

The main types of FDCs are:

• Indoor FDCs: These are FDCs that are installed inside buildings, such as data centers, offices, or residential complexes. Indoor FDCs are usually rack-mounted or wall-mounted, and they have a compact and modular design. Indoor FDCs can accommodate a large number of fibers and provide easy access and management. Indoor FDCs are suitable for indoor fiber optic networks, such as LAN, WAN, or FTTH.
• Outdoor FDCs: These are FDCs that are installed outside buildings, such as on utility poles, walls, or pedestals. Outdoor FDCs are usually pole-mounted or pad-mounted, and they have a robust and weatherproof design. Outdoor FDCs can withstand harsh environmental conditions, such as rain, snow, dust, or UV rays. Outdoor FDCs are suitable for outdoor fiber optic networks, such as MAN, FTTx, or PON.

• Wall-mounted FDCs: These are FDCs that are mounted on walls, either indoors or outdoors. Wall-mounted FDCs are usually small and lightweight, and they have a simple and elegant design. Wall-mounted FDCs can save space and provide convenient installation and maintenance. Wall-mounted FDCs are suitable for small-scale fiber optic networks, such as FTTO, FTTB, or CCTV.

• Pole-mounted FDCs: These are FDCs that are mounted on utility poles, either indoors or outdoors. Pole-mounted FDCs are usually medium-sized and heavy, and they have a sturdy and durable design. Pole-mounted FDCs can provide high stability and security, and they can support multiple feeder and distribution cables. Pole-mounted FDCs are suitable for medium-scale fiber optic networks, such as FTTN, FTTC, or CATV.

In conclusion, FDCs are important devices for fiber optic networks, and they have different types and features. Depending on the specific requirements of the network, such as the number of customers, the location, and the type of installation, different types of FDCs can be chosen. I hope this article has helped you understand the fiber distribution cabinet classification, and how to select the best FDC for your network.