How can fiber optic connections be implemented in apartment buildings quickly, cleanly, and future-proof? Netel GmbH is leading the way – with the Hexatronic Inhouse system. Thanks to modern microducts and slim cables, over 400 connections are created weekly, and the next target is already in sight. Read on to find out why this solution is so efficient and what advantages it offers.
In our collaboration with Netel GmbH in Germany, we have made remarkable progress in installing fiber optic connections in apartment buildings (NE4). By combining our HexaSpeed Inhouse Nanoduct system with the high-performance Stingray fiber optic cable, Netel is currently achieving over 400 home connections per week in the Zwickau area—and the next target is 500!
What makes this approach particularly noteworthy is its remarkable efficiency. Residents are disturbed for no longer than 10 minutes, including the installation of the Hexatronic subscriber connection box and the blowing of a pre-terminated Stingray cable into the duct using the Hexatronic ABF blowing pistol.
A vital aspect of this success was using micro-ducting instead of direct cable laying.
Why micro-ducting instead of direct cables?
DIN 18015 lays the foundation by advocating the interchangeability of telecommunications systems through the use of a pipe network. Independently of this standard, micro-ducting offers the following advantages in the building:
- Replaceability: In the NE4 area, unforeseen events can occur, such as the accidental removal or tearing down of a connection box by a resident. In such cases, it is much easier to remove a damaged cable from the micro-pipe and blow in a new one than to completely replace a permanently installed cable.
- Flexibility: Even if a resident does not currently want a connection, the microduct network can already be installed. If necessary, a single tube can be branched off later and routed into the apartment. With direct cable laying, costly new installations or splicing work would be required.
When it comes to speed and simplicity in NE4 expansion, we no longer consider any other system.
What makes our Hexatronic system unique?
- Compact design: Our HexaSpeed in-house nanotubes, with an outer diameter of only 3 mm or 5 mm, enable unobtrusive installation on plaster or in narrow ducts and optimal use of space in already occupied (riser) ducts. The slim Stingray fiber optic cable, with an unbeatable 1.1 mm for 4 fibers and 1.6 mm for 24 fibers, can be optimally blown into these tubes.
- Fire protection compliance: In combination with Kolektor fire protection systems, we have a fire protection certificate in Germany that allows the system to be used in all types of buildings and special constructions. The certificate also allows the system to be installed in escape routes without the use of large and expensive fire protection channels; instead, simple, narrow 3 cm metal channels can be used. This is particularly advantageous in existing buildings, where the cabling often runs on the surface of the wall through stairwells.
- Pre-terminated solutions: Stingray can be ordered pre-terminated on one side on small cardboard reels in 25-meter lengths, eliminating the need for splicing in the home. This reduces dirt, avoids fiberglass residue and saves time, since the cables can simply be plugged in and blown in from top to bottom.
- Space-saving installation: With the handy cardboard reels, our compact ABF blowing pistol, and small compressor, the Stingray can be blown/pushed into the basement in a space-saving manner, often even without compressed air. This further simplifies the installation process and maximally reduces the time in the apartment.
Anders Mikkola, CEO of Netel GmbH, puts it succinctly: “When it comes to speed and simplicity in NE4 expansion, we no longer consider any other system.”
This combination of flexibility, efficiency, and compliance makes the Hexatronic system ideal for modern fiber optic installations in residential buildings.
