FHH Network Area, Access Node, optical fibres, Optical Distribution Frames

The Access Node, often referred to as the Point of Presence (POP), acts as the starting point for the optical fibre path to the subscribing customer. 

The function of the Access Node is to house all active transmission equipment; manage all fibre terminations and facilitate the interconnection between the optical fibres and the active equipment. 

The physical size of the Access Node is ultimately determined by the size and capacity of the FTTH area in terms of subscribers and future upgrades.

The Access Node may form part of an existing or new building structure. The main network cables entering the Node will terminate and run to the active equipment. The feeder cables will also connect to the active equipment and run out of the Node building and onto the FTTH network area. All other physical items are used to manage the optical fibres within the Node. 

A typical Access Node building/room layout

Separate cabinets and termination shelves may be considered for equipment and individual fibre management to simplify fibre circuit maintenance as well as avoid accidental interference to sensitive fibre circuits.

The key Network Infrastructure elements within an Access Node Building are:

- Optical Distribution Frames (ODFs)

- Cable guiding system

- Uninterrupted Power Supply (UPS)

- Climate control

Access Node Security

The Access Node should be classed as a secure area.  Therefore, provision for fire and intrusion alarm, managed entry/access and mechanical protection against vandal attack must be considered.

Related Knowledge:

FTTH Terminal Box

What is Fiber in the loop?

Optical Distribution Frame

Why “fiber connections” have an attraction for the CATV providers

What is the technology makes FTTH broadband connections possible?