User Manual

Andrew InCell™ Fiber Optic Distributed Antenna System Users Guide
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The Interconnecting Cable
Any single mode 2-core fiber cable can be used to drive the RAU a distance of 20Km from the
CDU. In this configuration, power to the RAU is supplied from an external 12-28VDC source or
an Andrew supplied universal (110/240VAC, 50/60Hz) wall transformer (wall wart). An
Andrew manufactured composite cable is also available. This cable (shown at Figure 10)
combines 2-core fiber and 2-conductor copper elements in a single jacket. Using this cable,
power to the RAU is supplied by the CDU over the copper conductors eliminating the need for a
separate RAU power supply. Although the composite cable greatly simplifies the installation
process, the CDU-RAU separation is limited to 1.5Km. The limitation is the DC voltage drop
from the CDU to the RAU over the copper conductors.
Microcable
Natural
Insulated
Copper
(Red)
Rip Cord
Outer
Jacket
Insulated
Copper
(Black)
Microcable
(Blue)
0.210"
TM
TM
D00-37
Figure 10. Cross Section of Andrew Composite Fiber/Copper Cable
The Andrew composite cable is rugged, flexible and has an outside diameter of 0.21”, making it
easy to install. One optical fiber provides the downlink signal between the CDU and the RAU;
the second optical fiber provides the uplink signal between the RAU and the CDU. These cables
use industry standard SC type connectors to interface with the RAU and CDU. The two copper
lines are used to provide DC power and ground signals to the RAU so that no additional power
planning is required. System installers are not required to install AC power, conduit and
transformers at each remote antenna location. With the CDU in the center of a system, remote
antennas could be spaced as far as 3 km apart using the composite cable.
Andrew provides plenum rated and riser rated composite cables for in-building installation as
fully tested cable assemblies and as bulk cable. The cables meet demanding building codes for
safety. Tested cable assemblies are available in lengths of 50, 100, 150 and 200 meters, with
optical and power connectors installed. Bulk composite cable is also available on spools and