CommScope unveils modular XPND fibre panel for FTTH networks

CommScope has introduced the XPND fibre termination panel platform for fibre-to-the-home (FTTH) networks, offering network service providers a modular, scalable solution to support changing market requirements.

The XPND platform is designed to create a flexible connectivity interface for active network equipment. Its modular structure allows service providers to adjust components and capabilities as their needs evolve, while also addressing fibre management, connectivity, and cable handling to facilitate the deployment of next-generation fibre technologies.

CommScope says the platform aims to protect investments in passive outside plant infrastructure. The panels, which are compact in design, fit into standard 19-inch racks alongside active equipment commonly found in telecommunications environments. The system includes an interchangeable selection of panels, cassettes, modules, and cables, which are shipped and sold separately.

By allowing these components to be ordered individually, CommScope seeks to give providers increased flexibility to customise their network upgrade paths and control inventory costs by reducing the need for multiple stock-keeping units (SKUs).

Erik Gronvall, Vice President of Strategy & Technology, Datacentre at CommScope, stated, "The core feature of our new CommScope XPND platform is its completely open design. Each empty panel is a blank canvas, ready to be populated with a virtually unlimited combination of interchangeable cassettes and modules, including optical splitters."

He added, "Service providers can build the network they need with the minimum number of SKUs for the maximum performance and applications. As FTTH buildouts shift to more rural areas it results in smaller scale installs of single rack or outside plant cabinets. Service providers are confronted with spikes in fibre demand, fluctuating budgets and less certainty in planning. The CommScope XPND panel helps service providers adapt to changing demands and grow at their own pace."

The XPND platform features a suite of solutions, including panels with interchangeable splice cassettes, adapter modules, optical splitters and cables, allowing it to accommodate a broad range of configurations and applications. The panels are shipped empty, with cassettes and modules ordered as networks expand, supporting a "pay as you go" approach that the company says can offer a more agile and cost-effective model, particularly for smaller and growing networks.

Panels are available in three sizes (1RU, 1.5RU and 3RU) with a consistent depth of 12 inches. This design enables the panels to be installed alongside active equipment in standard 19-inch racks, removing the requirement for a dedicated frame and reducing the amount of dedicated rack space needed.

According to CommScope, the XPND fibre platform is available now for CommScope customers in North America. It will be on display at Fiber Connect 2025 from June 1-4 in Nashville, Tennessee.