In recent years, the fiber optic cable access market has experienced robust growth, becoming a key area of innovation in the optical communications industry. As fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) deployment expands, the indoor wiring segment—especially the final drop to the user—has emerged as one of the most technically demanding aspects. Conventional indoor cables often fall short in meeting the bending and tensile performance required for modern FTTH installations. This has led to the development of FTTH fiber optic drop cables and their related solutions.
What is an FTTH Drop Cable?
FTTH (Fiber to the Home) represents the most advanced stage in optical access network development. Based on the positioning of the optical network unit (ONU), fiber access types include FTTH, FTTB (to the building), FTTP (to the premises), and FTTC (to the curb). Most of these systems are based on PON (Passive Optical Network) architecture, using splitters to distribute signals across multiple endpoints.
In an FTTH network, fiber optic cables are typically divided into feeder cables, distribution cables, and drop cables. Among these, the drop cable is critical for the final connection to the user—often requiring greater flexibility, durability, and reliability. Traditional drop cables have been challenged by higher costs and suboptimal performance, prompting innovation.
At Jiqian Fiber Optic Cable, we focus on R&D and manufacturing of advanced FTTH drop cable solutions tailored for real-world performance. Our portfolio includes both armored and non-armored FTTH drop cables, engineered to meet diverse application environments.
Armored FTTH drop cables are ideal for scenarios that require added mechanical protection, such as frequent handling or semi-mobile setups. They’re commonly used between wall outlets and optical terminals.
Non-armored drop cables, on the other hand, are well-suited for fixed indoor routing, including duct installations or open-wall wiring over short distances.
Structure and Features of FTTH Drop Cables
Jiqian’s FTTH drop cables are available in single-core, dual-core, and multi-core configurations (up to 12 cores), featuring a characteristic figure-8 cross-section. Central strength members can be metallic or non-metallic depending on application needs.
Bending Performance: Our cables use G.657A2 low-bend radius optical fibers, allowing for installations with tight 20mm bend radii—ideal for compact residential layouts.
Connector Compatibility: The drop cable’s 2.0mm × 3.1mm standard dimensions make it compatible with widely used pre-terminated or field-installable connectors.
Reinforcement Options:
Metallic: We use specialized copper-clad steel wires instead of traditional phosphated steel, reducing spring-back and improving tensile strength—perfect for horizontal or vertical in-building cabling.
Non-metallic (FRP): Suitable for fully dielectric applications and lightning-prone environments, ensuring safety for outdoor-to-indoor transitions.
Sheathing Materials
Our FTTH drop cables are sheathed in either PVC or LSZH (Low Smoke Zero Halogen) materials. LSZH offers better flame-retardant properties and, when produced in black, can resist UV degradation—making it ideal for outdoor exposures and indoor transitions.
Jiqian Fiber Optic Cable, established in 2012, combines over a decade of technical expertise with a commitment to quality. We specialize in the design, manufacturing, and global supply of fiber optic cables and connectivity products. Our FTTH drop cable series reflects our continuous focus on innovation, safety, and ease of deployment in fiber access networks.