P3Link Frequently Asked Questions
Opticonx has compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions regarding our P3Link product line.
What is P3Link?
P3Link is a fully pre-terminated fiber optic cable system. Consisting of trunk/backbone cables, interface cassettes, and mounting hardware, it is the fastest, easiest way to install a fiber optic network. Because there is no special tooling or expertise required, virtually anyone can install a P3Link system.
How does it work?
The heart of the P3Link system is the MPO connector. Consisting of 12 fibers in an array format, the MPO connector allows very high density in a very small package. By terminating each end of the backbone cable with an MPO, and one end of the cassette with an MPO and the other end with industry standard LC, ST, SC, etc., P3Link requires no field termination of fiber optic connectors. And because the cassettes are already pre-wired, each individual fiber does not need to be plugged in separately as in standard pre-terminated cable. This saves massive amounts of time compared to conventional installations, and allows for fast recovery from disaster.
Where is it used?
The great thing about P3Link is that it can be used in virtually any fiber optic network. With choices ranging from plenum rated indoor, indoor/outdoor, outdoor, armored, and Low Smoke Zero Halogen backbone cables, P3Link can be used in a variety of applications and is perfectly suited for installations in LAN, SAN, and data center applications.
What are the applications?
P3Link is used in government installations, in large and small data centers, campus environments, LAN’s, and just about anywhere where fast installation and lab quality terminations are desired.
I’ve never installed fiber before, can I still use P3Link?
P3Link is designed to be fast and easy to install. While care should be taken while handling, pulling, and attaching the cable to the mounting hardware, no special skills or tooling is required to complete the installation. The system components are all tested at the factory, but you should still certify the system upon completion.
Is P3Link customizable?
Because Opticonx manufactures all of the P3Link components, including the cables, we are able to offer fully customized solutions for a variety of applications including harsh environments, radiation tolerant applications, special identification applications (color coded cables), etc.
How much time can I save installing a P3Link System?
Typical installations involve purchasing bulk cable, pulling it in through the cable path (conduit, etc.), fastening it to some type of hardware, removing the cable sheath, furcating the individual fiber, terminating, polishing, and testing. Because all of this has been performed in the laboratory by experienced technicians, you need only to pull the backbone cable and plug it in to the interface cassette, and certify the link. The labor savings are up to 75 percent!
How does a P3Link System help me control costs?
Labor is the biggest variable cost when installing a fiber system. The amount of time necessary to remove the cable sheath and prepare a cable for installation can vary widely depending on cable type (loose tube and armored cables are much more time consuming than premise style cables), and time for connector termination, polish, and certification can also vary depending on the technician’s experience and skill level. With a P3Link system, this work has been accomplished in a factory setting using skilled technicians and dedicated tooling and equipment, eliminating most of the skills and equipment necessary to accomplish the installation. The result is that labor variables are greatly reduced, saving time and money and allowing you to estimate labor costs more accurately. Scrap is also eliminated, further reducing variable costs.
What are some other advantages of a P3Link System?
P3Link systems can help control many of the problems associated with traditional fiber installations. The terminations are all factory installed using epoxy-polish methods, eliminating the need for field terminations and mechanical splice connection methods. The connectors are all installed into the adapters in the factory, eliminating the possibility of crossed fibers due to misunderstanding of the color code. Disaster recovery is also simplified for mission critical applications; simply keep a spare trunk cable around equal to your longest fiber run. This cable can then be used in the event that a backbone cable is compromised (dug up, forktruck runs it over, etc.) by running the longer cable between the cassettes and plugging in, quickly restoring the link. The systems also offer density not typically found in traditional cabling systems, as Opticonx currently offers up to 144 fibers in one rack unit! The system’s modular design also allows for greatest flexibility for add/drops/changes.
Who uses P3Link?
P3Link is used by Fortune 50 companies, government installations, colleges and universities, installers, and many large and small companies the United States and throughout the world.
Why P3Link?
Opticonx manufactures all of its’ P3Link product line at their facility in Oxford, Massachusetts, including the cable, cassettes, and all terminations. Our facility is equipped with the latest technology for manufacturing and testing our products. We do not “sub contract” any of our fiber assembly work, ensuring quality product that meet our demanding requirements.
Where can I buy P3Link?
Opticonx welcomes all inquiries, or for pricing on standard components you can register online at www.opticonx.com to receive customized pricing.
