8 Port OptiTap® MST Box compatible | IP68 Hardened Fiber Access Terminal

Overview

The 8 Port OptiTap® Fiber MST Box (Multi-Service Terminal) compatible  is a ruggedized, high-performance solution designed to bridge the gap between distribution networks and subscriber drops. Engineered for the harsh outside plant (OSP) environment, this hardened fiber terminal utilizes factory-terminated technology to deliver immediate “plug-and-play” connectivity.

Ideally suited for FTTH (Fiber to the Home) and FTTA (Fiber to the Antenna) applications, the unit features an IP68 protection rating, ensuring total isolation from moisture, dust, and environmental contaminants. With its ability to handle both pre-terminated stubs or internal splicing, this terminal significantly reduces installation time by eliminating the need for field termination at the access point.

Key Features

• OptiTap® Compatibility: Fully compatible with standard hardened adapters (SC, LC Duplex, MPO) for rapid integration with existing network ecosystems.
• High Durability: Constructed from reinforced PC+ABS or SABIC flame-retardant PC, ensuring resistance to UV radiation, impact, and chemical corrosion.
• IP68 Sealed: Factory-sealed design meets rigorous waterproofing standards, allowing for deployment in manholes, hand-holes, or exposed aerial environments.
• Flexible Deployment: The unique mounting bracket design supports wall-mounting, pole-mounting, and aerial strand attachment.
• Hybrid Configuration: While optimized for plug-and-play, the unit includes a splicing tray (16 core capacity for the 8-port model) allowing for input cable fusion if required.
• Superior Optical Performance: Low insertion loss ( 0.2 dB and high reseating durability (> 500 times) guarantee long-term network stability.

Applications

The 8 Port MST Box is the cornerstone of modern fiber access networks. In residential broadband, it serves as the final drop point, allowing technicians to connect homes in minutes without specialized splicing tools. In 5G infrastructure, it acts as a reliable junction point for connecting Remote Radio Heads (RRH) on towers.

Its robust mechanical sealing makes it particularly effective in challenging environments, such as coastal areas with high salinity or urban underground ducts prone to flooding. The unit supports various cable inputs, including straight-through cables ($\Phi 5.0\text{mm} – \Phi 16.0\text{mm}$) and standard flat drop cables.

Specifications

Cross-Platform Compatibility

This Hardened Service Terminal is engineered to open standards, making it a viable alternative to proprietary systems. It facilitates seamless inventory management for ISPs utilizing major industry-standard hardened connectors.

Advantages

Operational Efficiency: The primary benefit of this MST is the drastic reduction in deployment time. By utilizing hardened adapters, the “field opening” of the box is unnecessary during subscriber activation, protecting the internal fiber from accidental damage.

Versatility: Unlike many sealed terminals that are strictly pre-stubbed, this unit offers a cable inlet gland and internal splicing tray. This allows operators the choice between ordering pre-terminated tails or splicing a feeder cable directly into the unit in the field, providing unmatched logistical flexibility.

FAQ

1. Can I splice the feeder cable inside this 8-port MST?

Yes. While the output ports are hardened plug-and-play, the box features an internal splicing tray with a capacity of 16 cores. The input port accepts cables ranging from $\Phi 5.0\text{mm}$ to $\Phi 16.0\text{mm}$, allowing you to fusion splice the feeder cable to the internal pigtails.

2. Is the box fully waterproof?

Yes, the terminal is rated IP68. It utilizes a mechanical sealing mode with high-quality gaskets and gaskets, ensuring it is fully dust-tight and capable of withstanding continuous immersion in water.

3. What type of hardened adapters does it use?

The unit typically comes equipped with OptiTap® SC compatible adapters. However, it can also be customized with OptiTap LC Duplex or OptiTap MPO adapters depending on your network density requirements.

4. How is the box mounted?

The MST includes a versatile mounting bracket kit. It supports pole mounting, wall mounting, and aerial suspension (messenger cable mounting), making it suitable for almost any OSP scenario.

5. What is the operating temperature range?

The unit is designed for extreme climates, with a working temperature range of $-40^\circ\text{C}$ to $+65^\circ\text{C}$, ensuring reliability in both freezing winters and scorching summers.