Press information To download a text file of this release, go to www.parkfield.co.uk/fia FIA publishes Technical Support Document on Optical Fibre Polarity Maintenance Released 28 November 2003 Nearly all local and wide area network technologies use separate optical fibres for transmit and receive signals; polarity maintenance is becoming a significant issue as duplex cables and array interfaces are increasing deployed throughout the network. The latest Technical Support Document, TSD-2000-3-3, from the Fibreoptic Industry Association makes detailed recommendations for the termination practices to be followed to ensure known and repeatable channel polarity in optical fibre duplex cables and multi-element array interfaces with up to 12 optical fibres per row. By following the recommendations in the TSD, network designers, technicians, installers and network managers will be able to maximise channel reliability at all times. Free to members, £50 to non-members, the TSD is available as a download from www.fibreoptic.ork.uk or from the Secretariat, 01763 273039, jane@fiasec.demon.co.uk. This document is the latest in the series to be published by the FIA covering various aspects of designing, testing, installing and operating optical fibre networks. All the guides are prepared by acknowledged experts in their field and are free to members. The document provides definitive recommendations for all types and combination of cord and channel, ranging from simple duplex patch and equipment cords, configured as either straight-through or cross-over cords through to single and multiple row array interfaces with up to twelve optical fibres per row. Fixed cabling segments with duplex connectivity are also covered within the document. *** Ends: body copy 226 words *** Notes to Editors. For further information: FIA commercial contact: Andrew Watson 07946 314453 arwatson@btinternet.com FIA administrative contact: Jane Morrison Fibreoptic Industry Association The Manor House Buntingford SG9 9AB tel: 01763 273039 fax: 01763 273255 jane@fiasec.demon.co.uk www.fibreoptic.org.uk Agency contact: Nigel May Parkfield Communications Limited Parkfield House Damerham SP6 3HQ tel: 01725 518321 fax: 01725 518378 nigel.may@parkfield.co.uk www.parkfield.co.uk The Fibreoptic Industry Association represents more than 80% of UK companies involved in the manufacture or installation of fibre optic components and systems for voice and data communications. The Association provides advice to end-users, runs training and qualification services for its members, contributes to the development of national and international standards and generally represents the interests of the fibre industry. Its web site, www.fibreoptic.org.uk provides a free online reference service to all visitors.