Meeting network operators’ demands for lower Total Cost of Ownership is a focal point for Draka Communications. That applies particularly in FTTH access network roll-outs, where flexibility and close partnerships with customers are key. R&D has an important role to play in that process.
DrakaXSNet is Draka Communications Group’s custom solution for FTTH Access Networks. It brings together state-of-the-art optical fiber cables, a wide range of connectivity products, network software, added-value services and logistics – all aimed at meeting individual network operators’ requirements optimally. But building a network isn’t just a question of supplying a bunch of products. There’s always a lot of customisation to be done to meet the needs of specific markets and locations. All the products have to work smoothly together and be tested together.
That’s where R&D comes in, with a combination of technology and market knowledge that allows it to reach the optimum solution quickly in each situation. The market is developing rapidly and it’s becoming increasingly difficult to make standardised products. Draka Communications is part of a continuing process to define each customer’s requirements and develop the right solution. In some cases there are standard products that can be used, perhaps with a few small changes. But in others the customer’s needs drive us to develop a totally customised solution.”
“Our network software saves time and manual work by automating the design process, calculating costs and generating the Bill of Materials.”
“The important thing is that we can advise the customer, based on the experience we’ve gained with numerous FTTH roll-outs in different countries. Normally 3D design software is used as part of the development process, in which we discuss network components with suppliers. Then we develop prototype products, after which we test them first in the lab and finally in the field with potential customers. In fact we’re constantly investing in building up our own knowledge, because if a solution is good we can use it more broadly in other projects.”
Unique automated design process
In designing new networks, our network software saves time and manual work by automating the design process, calculating the costs and automatically generating the Bill of Materials. It helps us to reach the first design stage quickly, cost effectively and more reliably. Draka Communications first developed the software for designing and installing turnkey telecom projects, and then transferred the resulting knowledge to the broadband fiber field. It’s all part of the focus on reducing Total Cost of Ownership for the customer, by making it cheaper to build and operate the network, especially by reducing the required manpower at every stage.
Draka's other interesting innovations
- PCVD-APVD
- BendBright XS
- Colorlock XS
- MultiNetXS
- EaseNetXS
- RetractaNet XS
- RiserNet XS
- New microphone cable for highest audio signal quality
- Patch cable supports video ethernet
- Raising the bar in HDTV performance