For engineers, contractors and installers working in data centers and hyperscale environments, understanding the shift toward MMC technology is not just important, it's essential for staying competitive in an industry where density, speed and reliability determine success.

The Evolution of High-Density Connectivity: From MPO to MMC

Before diving into why MMC connectors are revolutionizing hyperscale deployments, it's crucial to understand the connectivity evolution that brought us here. Traditional MPO connectors have served the industry well, with 16-fiber MPO variants becoming popular due to their optimal balance of density and usability. 

MPO Fiber Cable

MPO-16 connectors improved over traditional single-fiber solutions, offering eight times the fiber count in roughly the same physical space as two duplex LC connectors. However, as data center demands continue to escalate, even these advanced solutions are reaching their practical limits.

The MMC connector represents the next evolutionary leap. Unlike MPO connectors which are limited by their form factor and large footprint, MMC connectors utilize an innovative design that maximizes fiber density while minimizing physical space requirements.

The Hyperscale Challenge: Beyond What MPO Can Deliver

Unlike traditional enterprise facilities, hyperscale data centers face challenges that are pushing beyond what even advanced MPO technology can address:

• Higher density requirements: AI workloads and machine learning applications require fiber densities that exceed what traditional connectors can provide in available rack space.
• Scalability needs: Facilities supporting millions of simultaneous connections need connector technologies that can scale without proportional increases in physical infrastructure.

While 16-fiber MPO technology addressed some of these challenges, the MMC connector takes solutions to an entirely new level.

Why MMC Connectors Are the Bleeding-Edge Solution

The MMC connector represents a fundamental reimagining of multi-fiber connectivity, incorporating innovations that address the most demanding hyperscale requirements: Revolutionary Architecture.

Fujikura MMC Connector

The MMC's design provides several critical advantages over traditional MPO connectors:

• Superior fiber density: The connector allows for higher fiber counts in a smaller footprint than comparable MPO solutions.
• Enhanced mechanical stability: An MMC's form factor provides more uniform stress distribution during insertion and removal, reducing the risk of fiber damage during field operations.
• Improved alignment precision: The geometry enables more precise fiber-to-fiber alignment, resulting in lower insertion losses and more consistent performance across all fibers.

Advanced Fiber Management

MMC connectors incorporate improved fiber management features over traditional MPO capabilities:

• Integrated bend radius protection: Built-in features ensure that fibers maintain proper bend radii even in high-density installations where space constraints might compromise fiber integrity.
• Polarity management: Keying and identification systems simplify polarity management across large-scale deployments, reducing installation errors.
• Future-ready scalability: The MMC architecture supports fiber counts that exceed current MPO limitations, providing headroom for next-generation applications requiring 32, 48, or even higher fiber counts.

The Critical Role of Testing and Inspection
While MMC connectors offer unique capabilities, their advanced architecture and high fiber densities make comprehensive testing and inspection more critical than ever. Successful MMC deployments require testing strategies and tools that ensure optimal performance in hyperscale environments.

Multi-fiber Inspection and Cleaning Systems

Leading solutions like AFL's One-Click® MPO cleaners provide the contamination control essential for MMC deployments by delivering consistent, repeatable cleaning of multi-fiber end faces.

One-Click® MMC16-24 Cleaners

The critical importance of proper MMC connector cleaning cannot be overstated:

• Ultra-sensitive performance impact: Even microscopic contamination that might be acceptable on traditional connectors can cause significant performance degradation in MMC's high-density, ultra-low-loss applications.
• Cleaning complexity: The increased fiber count and compact geometry of MMC connectors make manual cleaning inconsistent and unreliable.
• Cost of contamination: A single contaminated fiber in an MMC connector can compromise an entire high-fiber-count link, potentially affecting dozens of connections and causing expensive service interruptions.

Comprehensive Loss Testing and Installation Verification

MMC installations require testing protocols that go beyond traditional insertion loss measurements. Solutions like AFL's FlowScout® MPO OLTS Test Set streamline the complex testing requirements of these deployments by providing automated testing capabilities that match the technology's architecture.

AFL's FlowScout MPO OLTS Test Set

The FlowScout MPO OLTS addresses critical MMC testing needs through:

• Per-fiber characterization: Individual loss measurements for each fiber within the connector to identify potential issues that might be masked by average readings, with results automatically documented for each fiber position.
• Wavelength-specific testing: Multi-wavelength analysis to ensure consistent performance across the entire operating spectrum, particularly critical for CWDM and DWDM applications common in hyperscale environments.
• Return loss verification: Comprehensive reflectance testing to ensure that high-speed digital applications won't experience signal integrity issues due to back-reflections, with automated pass/fail determination based on application-specific criteria.

OTDR Analysis and Monitoring

The mission-critical nature of hyperscale applications makes ongoing monitoring essential, requiring testing solutions that can characterize entire multi-fiber links without service disruption. AFL's MPO-24 Switch automates OTDR testing of multi-fiber links without the need for disconnecting and reconnecting connectors during testing procedures.

The MPO-24 Switch enables monitoring through:

• Baseline establishment: Characterization of as-installed performance across all fibers simultaneously, enabling detection of degradation over time without service interruption.

The ROI of Comprehensive Testing
While testing and inspection may add upfront costs to MMC deployments, the return on investment in hyperscale environments is compelling, particularly when testing solutions reduce both testing time and labor requirements:

• Reduced downtime risk: Testing using automated solutions virtually eliminates connector-related service interruptions that can cost hyperscale operators thousands of dollars per minute.
• Extended service life: Proper testing and cleaning procedures using AFL's solutions can extend connector service life by 30-50%, reducing replacement costs and maintenance requirements while ensuring consistent performance.
• Performance optimization: Testing enables fine-tuning of installations to achieve performance levels that exceed design specifications, providing headroom for future applications while reducing installation time.

MMC and Beyond
The shift toward MMC technology represents more than just another connector evolution, it's a fundamental transformation that will define the next generation of optical infrastructure. While proven technologies like 16-fiber MPO continue to serve important roles in many applications, the bleeding-edge demands of modern hyperscale environments require new capabilities that only MMC technology can provide.

Ready to future-proof your data center? Discover AFL’s Discover AFL's full suite of hyperscale solutions and connect with our experts today.

• High-performance networking
• Cutting-edge cooling solutions
• Advancements in fiber optic technology

The facility moves AFL’s first-class connectivity solutions closer to regional demand than ever before, providing efficient access to high-speed optical fiber connectivity with a minimized carbon footprint.

This article gives insight into AFL’s Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) initiatives, and unpacks the systems and design features underpinning the facility’s environmentally responsible approach to optical fiber network infrastructure.

AFL sustainability initiatives

In 2021, AFL began its journey into ESG. The company quickly achieved the primary goal of establishing a dedicated, committee-led task force. The committee was set up with dual primary aims:

• Capture ongoing sustainability initiatives to understand and build on existing momentum.
• Provide considered recommendations to help lower the company’s global carbon footprint.

“AFL’s commitment to corporate responsibility is at the forefront of our culture and directly aligned with our core values As I look back on my first year at AFL, I am immensely proud of our efforts as we strive to create long-term meaningful value to our customers, associates, and communities.”

Jaxon Lang, AFL President and CEO

Task force outcomes provided AFL’s leadership teams with a structured overview of the company’s ESG commitments over time. Separated into five areas of significance, AFL’s ESG strategy now gives scope to plan, implement, monitor, measure, and continually improve sustainable practices across the company’s global locations.

Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions

AFL is taking positive action to lower its global carbon footprint. Across our business operations and customer value chain, we have set ambitious, monitored, achievable emission reduction targets, in line with the Science Based Target Initiative.

Operational Energy Efficiency

AFL is taking direct action to optimize operational energy efficiency in three areas. First, we monitor and reduce energy wastage.  Next, we identify and adopt cleaner fuels. Lastly, we invest in proven and emerging renewable power technologies.

Circular Economy

AFL strives to empower customers with sustainable growth opportunities. Our focus on raw material efficiency incorporates environmentally friendly product design an eco-conscious packaging, with product lifecycle considerations in mind.  

Waste Management

AFL’s target-based waste management initiatives include:

• Minimize global scrap rates.
• Implement appropriate waste stream treatments.
• Ongoing optimization of reuse and recycling schemes.

Water Conservation

AFL’s ESG committee advises the leadership team on ways to enhance water conservation efforts across the company’s global locations. For example, the facility incorporates rainwater recycling technology.

AFL now looks to the Poland Manufacturing Facility to continue the company’s investment in progressive ESG initiatives across business processes. The facility’s central European location not only expedites lower-carbon emission operations across EMEA, but the way in which the building itself functions promotes greener ways of working in support of AFL’s ESG initiatives.

MDC² Park: Built with sustainability in mind

Built as part of the MDC² Park complex in Gliwice, Poland, AFL’s new facility provides optical fiber solutions at the junction of the A1 and A4 motorways – two of the most used and most important motorways in Poland. Aside from its excellent transport links, MDC² Park itself is on a pathway to achieving a zero-carbon footprint and could become the highest rated ecological development in Poland.

Some of the ways in which MDC² supports AFL’s ESG goals include:

• Rainwater recycling.
• Electric vehicle chargers.
• Photovoltaic roof panels (commonly known as ‘solar panel’ or ‘PV ready’ technology).
• Energy consumption monitoring systems, enabling accurate breakdown of power usage within given timeframes, spanning lighting, water, heating, and more.

The Poland Manufacturing Facility was designed with biodiversity in mind, incorporating green walls, bird boxes, beehives, and meadows instead of lawns. 95% of the materials selected in the facility’s construction are recyclable, with natural building insultation (mineral wool) used throughout. There are also outdoor relaxation zones available to all AFL team members, helping positively impact worker wellbeing.

Written by Ben Atherton
Copywriter

In Part One of this three-part blog series, we discussed AFL’s commitment to supporting broadband expansion across the nation. We offer a wide array of fiber optic cable and connectivity products that meet domestic preference requirements for federally funded projects. Now, we will begin to explore the complex landscape of government funding programs for broadband.

Navigating government funding regulations is essential for successful broadband infrastructure deployment. At AFL, we understand the complexities of these regulations and the ever-changing broadband landscape, and we are committed to guiding you, our customers, through them seamlessly.

The U.S. government has developed numerous funding programs to boost connectivity and bridge the digital divide. These initiatives are vital for expanding broadband infrastructure and ensuring underserved communities gain access to high-speed internet. Among these programs, the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program stands out as the largest, with an allocation of $42.5 billion. BEAD provides grants to individual U.S. states, who in turn award the money to recipients who will build broadband networks in underserved areas. 

Other significant funding sources include the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), with its two sub-programs: the Capital Projects Fund (CPF) and the State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFRF). The Rural Digital Opportunity Fund (RDOF), Middle Mile Grant Program, Tribal Broadband Connectivity Program and Digital Equity Act Programs contribute to this nationwide effort as well. State and local government programs also play a crucial role in funding broadband access. Each state even has its own processes and rules for awards, and some counties and cities have established funding programs.

The Build America, Buy America (BABA) Act is a cornerstone of these regulations. BABA requires, or heavily encourages, the use of U.S.-manufactured items in government-funded projects. Waivers play a critical role in navigating these regulations. As mentioned in Part One, each U.S. government program has the authority to issue a waiver, or an exception, to the BABA rules, especially when certain materials are harder to obtain. Common justifications include the unavailability of U.S.-manufactured items or that procuring a U.S.-manufactured item would be too expensive. It's important to note, however, that each waiver is specific to a single U.S. government program.

The BEAD waiver, for example, is tailored specifically for the BEAD program. This waiver clarifies the application of the BABA rules to the BEAD program and waives some BABA requirements based on availability concerns identified by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) through market feedback. The approval of the BEAD waiver was a significant development as it established the final rules for purchasing products.

A critical point for manufacturers, like AFL and parent company Fujikura, is that a product might meet the modified requirements of the BEAD waiver but not comply with the original, unmodified BABA rules. Such a product could be used for BEAD-funded projects but might not be allowed for use in other programs where the BABA rules apply. NTIA is also directing manufacturers, including AFL, to self-certify products compliant with the modified rules of the BEAD waiver.  NTIA plans to maintain a registry of these products to facilitate transparency and project planning.

Additionally, other government programs besides BEAD have different sets of requirements. For example, ARPA became law prior to the passage of BABA regulations, so BABA does not apply to ARPA. Some government agencies, such as the Department of Defense, have significant requirements of their own in addition to BABA. It is critical for anyone receiving government funds to understand which program and agency they are getting these funds from, and articulate that to suppliers like AFL, so we can provide an accurate answer as to which products are authorized.

Navigating the web of regulations can be complex, even for the most seasoned professional. Our expertise and commitment to compliance can help alleviate your regulatory burdens, allowing you to focus on building robust broadband networks. Let AFL be your trusted guide through these intricacies, ensuring smooth navigation and compliance every step of the way!  

Read Part Three of our blog series where we will explore AFL’s strategic initiatives to support our customers on this once-in-a-generation opportunity in broadband deployment.

For further guidance on complying with BABA requirements, visit our Connecting America webpage or reach out to us at ConnectingAmerica@aflglobal.com.

In Parts One and Two of our three-part blog series, we examined AFL’s dedication to advancing broadband expansion across the nation while exploring the intricate landscape of government funding programs to ensure smooth navigation and compliance. In this blog, we will dive into AFL’s strategic initiatives for this once-in-a-generation opportunity. To support our customers in this unique and transformative period for broadband deployment, AFL is making significant strides on multiple fronts.

One such achievement is the recent addition of AFL’s Duncan, South Carolina manufacturing facility to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration’s (NTIA) “BABA Map.” This recognition highlights our commitment to manufacturing high-quality, compliant products in the U.S., reinforcing our position as a trusted partner in broadband deployment.

_{Click on the image above to learn more about the Internet for All initiative}

We also announced an investment of more than $50 million to expand our fiber optic cable manufacturing operations in South Carolina. This expansion will support our Build America, Buy America (BABA)-compliant optical cable portfolio, further driving broadband access and connectivity nationwide. This investment also underscores AFL’s commitment to our ongoing contribution to a stronger, more connected future for all communities across the country.

Our BABA-compliant Fiber-to-the-Home portfolio is at the forefront of these efforts. We are expanding our U.S.-based connectivity and conductor hardware manufacturing footprint and establishing a resilient and reliable U.S. supply chain. This initiative is part of our broader BABA compliance program, where AFL is diligently working to adjust its supply chain and manufacturing processes to maximize the number of products that can comply with BABA rules in general and the BEAD waiver, specifically. This compliance program helps ensure that our products meet the necessary standards to be used in federally funded projects, facilitating smoother project execution and adherence to regulations. 

_{Pictured Above: AFL's BEAD and BABA Compliant Cable and Connectivty Products
Click on this guide to learn more about AFL's position regarding BEAD, BABA and product compliance.}

To better enable partnerships with our customers on federally funded programs, we have also implemented the necessary processes and systems. For example, we are actively tracking funding awards and opportunities by monitoring all U.S. government funding programs, their status and the recipients of the funds. This information is crucial to our sales and marketing efforts, allowing us to provide timely and targeted support to you, our customers. By staying informed about the latest developments in funding programs, we can better assist our customers in navigating the complexities of securing and utilizing federal funds for broadband projects.

AFL is committed to playing a pivotal role in the expansion of broadband infrastructure across the nation. Through substantial investments, a robust BABA compliance program and strategic tracking of funding opportunities, we are well-positioned to support you in this transformative period for broadband deployment.

Visit our Connecting America webpage or reach out to us at ConnectingAmerica@aflglobal.com to follow along for more updates!

At AFL, our dedication to supporting broadband expansion in underserved communities across America spans four decades. During this time, we have proudly manufactured fiber optic cable, components and conductor accessories in the United States, creating thousands of jobs across the nation. As part of AFL’s strategic efforts, prioritizing the advancement of broadband deployment and harnessing the potential of government funding programs are paramount among our objectives. 

_{Click on the image above to learn more about AFL's commitment to Connecting America}

In November of 2021, Congress passed the $1.2 trillion Infrastructure, Investment and Jobs Act focused on building out U.S. roads and bridges, transportation systems, broadband infrastructure and strengthening the electric grid. Two critical elements of the Act, which were formed to help bridge the Digital Divide and establish broadband as a necessity are the Build America, Buy America (BABA) Act and the Broadband Equity Access and Deployment program (BEAD). 

BABA establishes a minimum domestic preference threshold for the manufacturing of any component which attaches to or is part of the infrastructure. It is the most notable set of rules for products (such as those manufactured by AFL and our parent company, Fujikura) used in government-funding programs. These rules require or heavily encourage the use of U.S.-manufactured items and apply to a wide range of U.S. government spending, not just broadband. However, they don’t apply to all broadband programs and within some programs, only certain types of funding recipients need to follow BABA.   

BEAD is the single largest investment for broadband infrastructure ever passed by the federal government. It’s a $42.5 billion funding program targeted to close the digital divide and provide universal broadband coverage to all Americans by the year 2030. All 50 States and U.S. territories received funding – from Texas, which received over $3.3 billion, to the U.S. Virgin Islands, which received $27 million. 

Understanding the intricacies of these regulations is vital, as there are provisions for exceptions. Each U.S. government program has the authority to issue a waiver to the BABA rules, especially when certain materials are harder to obtain. It's important to note that each waiver is specific to a single U.S. government program. For example, the BEAD waiver is tailored specifically for the BEAD program. This waiver clarifies the application of the BABA rules to the BEAD program and waives some BABA requirements based on availability concerns collected by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration through market feedback. In part two of this blog series, we'll explore these waivers in more detail.

We are proud to offer a wide array of fiber optic cable and connectivity products that meet domestic preference requirements for federally funded projects. BEAD, among other government funding programs, and BABA support these efforts by providing substantial financial resources and reinforcing domestic manufacturing preferences, propelling the nation toward a more connected future.

In this three-part blog series, we will guide you through the complexities of these initiatives, empowering you to lead the charge towards a more connected world. Read part two to learn more about navigating the landscape of government funding programs for broadband. 

For further guidance on complying with BABA requirements, visit our Connecting America webpage or reach out to us at ConnectingAmerica@aflglobal.com.

On April 11, four AFL employees attended and participated in the Fiber Broadband Association’s (FBA) Fiber Day on the Hill, which took place at the Rayburn Building on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC. This event highlights the transformative power of fiber and its impact on the nation’s households, communities and the economy. It also provides an opportunity for companies to engage with members of Congress to demonstrate their endeavors in connecting America. Finally, it allows members of the industry to highlight their expansion of U.S.-based production in support of these endeavors. 

Pictured Above from Left to Right: AFL's Lucas Mays, Will Miller, Seán Adam and Brianna Woodsby

“Our commitment to advancing broadband access in underserved communities across America drives our participation in events like this,” said Seán Adam, Vice President of Market Strategy and Innovation at AFL. “We are proud to stand alongside others in the industry to support the Biden-Harris Administration’s Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and Internet for All with innovative cable, connectivity and accessories portfolio that meets the requirements for federally-funded projects, including the Broadband Equityc Acess and Deployment (BEAD) Program."

AFL is dedicated to supporting our customers on this once-in-a-generation opportunity for broadband deployment. We recently announced an investment of more than $50 million to expand our fiber optic cable manufacturing operations in South Carolina. Not only will this expansion result in a number of new jobs, but it will support our Build America, Buy America (BABA)-compliant optical cable portfolio, further driving broadband access and connectivity nationwide.

During this educational event, attendees engaged with demo stations hosted by FBA members. These stations gave participants the chance to explore the essence of fiber and its impact on the U.S., such as facilitating advancements like 5G technology, precision agriculture, education, healthcare and economic opportunities. It also provided AFL with an opportunity to show examples of BEAD-compliant solutions. AFL featured several products at these demo stations, including our Apex® X-2S Sealed Splice Closure, Fujikura 90S+ Fusion Splicer, and Switchblade® Fiber Containment Vault, along with several types of fiber optic cables.  

Pictured Above from Left to Right: Seán Adam and Lucas Mays manning AFL's demo stations

Our participation at this event further solidifies AFL's ongoing contribution to a stronger, more connected future for all communities across the country. Stay tuned for more updates as we embark on this transformative journey in Connecting America!

In November of 2021, Congress passed the $1.2 trillion Infrastructure, Investment and Jobs Act focused on building out U.S. roads and bridges, transportation systems, broadband infrastructure and strengthening the electric grid. Two of the most important elements of the Act were the Build   America, Buy America statute and the Broadband Equity Access and Deployment program.

Build America, Buy America, commonly referred to as BABA, establishes a minimum domestic preference threshold for the manufacturing of any component which attaches to or is part of the infrastructure. Put simply, components used in federally funded projects must be produced in the U.S., with very few exceptions.  

The Broadband Equity Access and Deployment Program, commonly known as BEAD, is a $42.5 billion funding program targeted to close the digital divide and provide universal broadband coverage to all Americans by the year 2030.  All 50 States and U.S. territories received funding – from Texas, which received over $3.3 billion, to the U.S. Virgin Islands, which received $27 million. BEAD is the single largest investment for broadband infrastructure ever passed by the federal government.  When added to other stimulus passed since COVID, there is over $90 Billion in federal funding driving broadband expansion and grid modernization. 

To support our customers on this once-in-a-generation opportunity in broadband deployments, AFL is executing across several fronts. First, AFL continues to invest in optical cable capacity expansion in our South Carolina facility.  Next, we are focused on establishing a full BABA-compliant Fiber-To-The-Home portfolio through expanding our U.S. based connectivity and conductor hardware manufacturing footprint and establishing a resilient and reliable U.S. supply chain.  Finally, we are putting in place the necessary processes and systems to better enable us to partner with our customers on federally funded programs.  

AFL is committed to working with our customers to deliver on the vision of universal coverage for all Americans. Keep up to date by visiting our Connecting America webpage. If you have any questions on complying with BABA requirements, please reach out to ConnectingAmerica@aflglobal.com.

Some say it’s wise not to work with family members. While AFL is certainly not a family business, after almost 40 years in business and thousands of employees during this time in one geographic area, family members working at the same company is probably bound to happen at some point.

Brian Wood, Substation Product Line Manager, celebrated his 23-year anniversary in November 2023. Earlier in 2023, Brian’s son, David, worked as a summer co-op for the Accessories plant in Duncan, S.C, and applied for and received the Naruse Scholarship AFL offers to children of associates entering a college or university. But David is not the only family member of Brian’s that currently or previously worked at AFL.

Brian’s oldest son, Alex, is currently the Energy Team Lead in the Customer Service department. Daniel Brown, a buyer for Accessories, is Brian’s brother-in-law.

(Pictured on the right, from left to right: Daniel Brown, Alex Wood and Brian Wood.)

But Brian isn’t trying to start a family dynasty at AFL. If anything, he was the one brought into the dynasty. It all started with his mother-in-law, Elisabeth.

Elisabeth (Brown) Linton began working at AFL in August 1995 after she moved to the area. Originally from Vienna, Austria, she did some translation work before coming to AFL. She started as an administrative assistant to Don Little who was the General Manager of the Connector and Splicer business unit at the time. After Don retired, Steve Althoff became the new General Manager and her new boss (Althoff recently retired from AFL where he was the President of AFL Hyperscale business). Even though there were other opportunities available for her, Elisabeth chose to remain in administrative/office manager positions.

In 1997, Elisabeth recommended her daughter Rebecca for a temp position to assist with a catalog project. Rebecca became a full-time associate in 1998 and worked in various customer service and inside sales role all while continuing to work in the same office area with her mother.

In fact, their cubicles were kitty corner from one another, and Rebecca would call out “Hey Mom” if she needed something. But Steve Althoff put a stop to that. He insisted that Rebecca address Elisabeth by her first name, not Mom.

But there were repercussions from this. Whenever Rebecca was with her mother outside of work, she would still have to call her mom “Elisabeth” just to get her attention. “She couldn’t tune me out when I called her Elisabeth,” Rebecca jokes.

After becoming a full-time employee, Rebecca had to go on a business trip to Houston. However, she wasn’t 25 years old yet and couldn’t rent a car, so they sent her mother to go with her on the trip.

AFL took a downturn around 2001, a victim of the dot.com bubble burst and had to furlough employees. Elisabeth was on this short list. Sometime in November 2001, she recalls Steve Althoff asking her to meet him in a conference room. “There has already been quite a number of layoffs and I could see the writing on the wall,” Elisabeth said.

However, being laid off didn’t faze her in the least. Elisabeth was a couple months away from getting re-married and took her newly free afternoon to go wedding dress shopping.

Rebecca remained employed during this fragile economic time and stayed at AFL for several more years, leaving on her own accord in May 2009.

All though Rebecca’s time at AFL overlapped some with her brother-in-law, Brian Wood, their paths rarely crossed. Brian, who is married to Elisabeth’s daughter Angela (Rebecca’s sister), started at AFL in November 2000 after getting out of the Army. He learned of the AFL position through Elisabeth, who suggested it might be a good fit since he had warehouse experience while in the Army.

A few months into his new job at AFL, the tech bubble burst affected his new position and Brian was facing his next obstacle - he could be transferred to a different department in the company or be let go. As a young man with a new house and a family to provide for, it was necessary for him to remain employed. So he opted to stay and moved over to the Accessories division. Since then, he has climbed his way up through the substation business unit over the years to where he now leads the $30 million product line.

Around the time Rebecca left AFL, Daniel Brown was looking for a job. Daniel is Rebecca’s stepbrother from her father’s second marriage. But it was Brian who suggested to Daniel that he might like working in the warehouse at AFL. Daniel got a part-time position in the former Hillside warehouse and moved into a full-time position at the Accessories plant a few years later. Today he is a Buyer/Planner for the substation line and often works with Brian on orders.

Fast forward a decade, and now Brian’s oldest son is working at AFL.

In 2018 and 2019, during his summer breaks from college, Alex Wood worked at the Accessories plant as part of AFL’s University Co-op Program. After graduating from Wofford College, he interviewed and was offered a position in Customer Service in August 2020.

When Alex first started, he didn’t want anyone to know that Brian was his father for two main reasons. One, he didn’t want people to think he knew more than he did; and two, he didn’t want it to look like nepotism. His goal is to learn as much as he can to grow and move up in the company. In fact, when he was interviewing for the full-time gig after college, he came prepared with not only a five-year plan, but a 10- and 15-year plan for working at AFL.

(Pictured on the left: The Wood men, Alex, Brian and David (from left to right)

A member of Gen Z having a 15-year plan to work at one company is surprising in this day and age when it’s common, even encouraged, for the new working generation to job hop every few years. But that’s not something Alex is interested in. “If a company treats you well, you do the same,” says Alex.

One AFL benefit that Alex has taken advantage of was the tuition reimbursement program to earn his MBA from Gardner-Webb University. Daniel also earned his bachelor’s degree from Limestone College with this AFL benefit.

Back to David Wood, the youngest working member of the Wood family. At this point, he knows several family members who work or have worked at one company, so did he feel compelled to do the same? “Honestly, I wanted some spending cash as all teenagers do. But I also wanted a little bit of work experience and something to do over the summer.”

David reflects positively on his summer co-op program, noting that he had supportive managers and co-workers who taught him how to do the job well and effectively. And he could do his job without his dad or brother looking over his shoulder. David said it was “nice to go to lunch with them on Fridays and share a ride to work,” but otherwise, he didn’t really see much of them when he was at work.

Currently a freshman at Wofford College, David plans to come back to work at AFL during his Christmas break and potentially during the summers for as long as he can.

“God has a sense of humor. But it’s really, really cool,” Brian says of his sons also working at AFL.

With so many family members working at the same place, it’s sometimes hard to keep work and home life separate. Now that Alex and David are out of the house, they still have dinner with their parents most Friday evenings. But their mom has one rule, they can only talk about AFL for 30 minutes and that’s it. Then it’s family time. It’s good to have boundaries.

Lest we forget, there’s one more family member that had a brief stint at AFL, Elisabeth’s stepson, Philip Linton. Philip interned here when he was a student at North Greenville University.

Fret not, the Wood and Brown family members have not and are not violating company policy. According to the employee handbook, AFL’s policy on relatives working together comes down to if the applicants are qualified for the position, associate and relative are not in a direct reporting relationship, and their personal relationship will not adversely affect the workflow process. Clearly, the Wood and Brown family members take this policy to heart and have made it a family affair to build their careers at AFL.

“Having found the job at AFL in the summer of 1995 was an answer to prayer for me and has been a blessing to my entire family to this day,” said Elisabeth.

Pictured to the right, the Wood Linton Family. Elisabeth Linton is in the middle. Left to Right: Alex Wood, Rebecca Nicholson, David Wood, Philip Linton, Brian Wood)

Written by Nicole Collins
Digital Marketing Specialist
+18644867109
Nicole.Collins@aflglobal.com

What is the primary difference between gel-filled and gel-free ADSS?
The primary difference between gel-free and gel-filled cables is the water blocking element. Dry cables use a water blocking binder to absorb any moisture the cable may encounter. Gel-filled cables, on the other hand, use gel to block moisture and prevent ingress. Gel-filled cables have been around for more than 30 years while gel-free cables been around for just over a decade. 
  
In terms of installation and maintenance, which type of buffer tube is easier to work with and more accessible? Why?
Splicing gel-free cables offers a time-saving advantage as there’s no need to clean the gel. That said, when working with buffer tubes that have more than 12 fibers in the same tube, the gel acts as an adhesive by keeping the fiber bundles grouped and facilitating easy separation. The value of time savings from splicing is largely dependent upon the application and the number of splice locations. For point-to-point connections, the savings will be minimal, but in applications such as distribution and FTTx, the time-savings element will be more pronounced. 
 
How does each type (gel-filled and gel-free buffer tubes) affect the overall performance and reliability of the cable?
Both options are successfully tested to the same performance standard for ADSS cables, IEEE 1222, a widely accepted industry standard that outlines testing requirements for ADSS cable. AFL believes in the appropriate application the reliability would be comparable as well. 
  
Can you provide examples of situations/applications where gel-filled buffer tubes are commonly used? What about gel-free buffer tubes?
Gel-filled ADSS cable has been used in both transmission, long span and distribution (short span) applications. Gel-free ADSS has primarily been utilized in distribution applications, which makes sense given the additional splice locations that exist in a distribution environment and the time-saving advantages associated with dry splicing. 

Can you discuss any specific challenges or limitations associated with either gel-filled or gel-free buffer tubes?
AFL has industry-leading maximum span length capabilities for our gel-filled ADSS cables. Currently, we intend to keep our long span/high tension cables as gel-filled and utilize gel-free cables on medium-to-short span applications. There is even the possibility that we will transition most of our short-span designs to a gel-free technology and increase the span length capabilities of gel-free cables if there is customer demand.

What factors influenced your decision to introduce this new technology (Dry ADSS) at this time?
We chose to incorporate gel-free buffer tubes into our ADSS family to cater to the growing demand from our customer base to offer this technology. We are seeing an increasing influence from the service provider and telecom markets in the rural FTTx space that strongly advocate for the dry technology. This move allows us to meet the needs of our customer base more effectively and positions us to capitalize on the growing market opportunities in this sector.

For more information on AFL’s ADSS Products, visit our website. 

Seán Adam, Vice President of Market Strategy and Innovation, recently participated in “T&D Talk,” a special series on the T&D World Line Life Podcast channel. In this episode titled “Fiber Through the Grid: Addressing the Challenges of the Grid Today,” Seán discussed the challenges facing utilities in the process of modernizing the electric grid, and how fiber is uniquely suited to address requirements for both today and tomorrow. 

In this episode, listeners will learn about:

• The challenges electric utilities face when modernizing the electric grid, such as an aging infrastructure, impacts of climate change and the need to support renewable energy and electric vehicles
• The necessity for upgrading and transforming power grids to meet increasing energy demands 
• The importance of deploying a fiber-deep network that will embrace low-latency applications and last for generations
• The benefits of fiber, including its ability to provide equal upload and download speed, its potential to enhance network efficiency and its heightened security against vulnerabilities, like electromagnetic pulse attacks
• The concept of building a SAFER™ network that is sustainable, accessible, flexible, expandable, and reliable to ensure the resilience of the grid for future energy demands

Click on the link below to listen to the full podcast and learn more about AFL’s Grid Modernization efforts.

One of the portal’s major benefits is its 24-hour access to information, which is especially beneficial for customers in different time zones. Based in South Carolina (Eastern Standard Time), Scotty manages customers across the Central, Mountain and Pacific time zones  – all of which are one to three hours behind him. When he is occupied with other tasks or it’s outside of his normal working hours, customers can utilize the portal to retrieve information independently and efficiently. 

When using the portal, customers can identify concerns that may not come to AFL’s attention until it’s too late and become issues for the end user. This early awareness allows Scotty to proactively address potential problems, ensuring a seamless customer experience.

For example, one of Scotty’s California customers uses the portal daily to track orders, pull trackers and update their clients with expected delivery dates. If they see a missed ship date through the portal, they will notify him via email. This allows Scotty to reach out to his support team within AFL and immediately resolve the issue before the customer arrives at the office in California the following morning. With the portal, he’s able to stay informed about any outstanding matters. Leveraging the portal’s functionalities enables both parties to work together as a team and manage the account.

Other benefits of the portal include:

• Ability to setup advanced email notifications for orders, shipments and invoices, specifying preference for states/provinces, cities and zip/postal codes
• Follow the orders and shipments of interest
• Track order and shipment progress using the homepage feed
• Advanced search feature to filter and search for the desired information and export it to excel
• Training on how you can configure the portal to meet your needs

Take control of your AFL journey with our customer portal. Sign up today.

Thanks to Scotty Simpson for providing his insights and experience with the portal!

PRTC, a telecommunications/technology provider located in South Carolina, relies on AFL’s FlowScout for testing and recently used it for XPON network troubleshooting. PRTC’s technicians stay busy, covering an average of 10 appointments per day and often ride alone. Service calls can either be for activation or troubleshooting, and in rural areas, customer visits can be up to 30 miles apart. They must be ready to replace fiber jumpers at customer homes, so they need a versatile power meter that confirms light for verification purposes, upturns and troubleshooting. FlowScout has become a trusted tool for PRTC. In two different scenarios, they’ve used it to diagnose a variety of problems including low light fiber and splicing issues at a customer site.

Depending on the location, PRTC runs two different wavelengths: GPON at a wavelength of 1490 nm in a new expansion area and XGS-PON at 1577 nm in their original home fiber area. When technicians need to test these networks, they test at the ONT location both inside and outside the customer’s home depending on the trouble encountered. After testing, they usually send images of the results to a supervisor for verification and reporting. 

Running different wavelengths across different regions can be challenging when it comes to choosing the right tool to use. AFL’s FlowScout proved to alleviate such challenges as it automatically detects GPON, XGS-PON and video signals simultaneously without having to use multiple meters for measurements. 

“One of the biggest things I really appreciate about AFL’s FlowScout is its ability to read 1577 nm and being able to come back into another district and read 1490 nm or different light levels without having to do anything,” said Dustin Pittinger, a PRTC technician. “You can walk up, plug it in and it will tell you what frequency and show you your light levels. Also, it will break it down and give you an “X” if it’s too low or a green check if it’s good! This meter takes the guesswork out.” 

In another scenario, partners of PRTC used independent contractors to help with xPON network installations by hanging and burying cable to fiber splicing for a recent subscriber expansion. When testing these new installations for continuity, splicing consistency was found to be a big issue and there was often little light to no light reaching the customers’ homes. By using FlowScout, PRTC found that the measurements initially reported by contracts did not match actual light levels. This tool allowed technicians to verify these signal losses and document results quickly and easily.

In the infographic below, learn more about these three key characteristics and see what products and solutions AFL provides to build a Converged Access Network.

Additional Resources:

Webinar Recording: Network Convergence for Everyone 

The Collision of Cloud and the Edge, Part 2: Preparing for Impact by Josh Simer

Achieving a Connected World by Seán Adam

Converged Access Network webpage 

5G Fronthaul Backhaul Brochure

Statista, 2022 - https://www.statista.com/statistics/471264/iot-number-of-connected-devices-worldwide/ 
 

In my previous blog entry, I left off promising to explain how wireline operators can build access networks today which will be able to handle the 6G future.  

The answer to that question is central to the fundamental value AFL provides with our access network solutions: build a network that is expandable, flexible and accessible.

What 6G will mean for the access network

To understand that answer, first let’s quickly review what we know about 6G so far, and what is likely to be true.

Known – the goals for 6G, as identified by Next-G Alliance, will include characteristics like:

• Trust, Security and Resilience
• An Enhanced Digital World Experience
• Cost Efficient Solutions
• Distributed Cloud and Communications Systems
• An AI-Native Network
• Sustainability

Likely to be true:

• 6G will include the use of additional spectrum, particularly at higher frequencies
• Because those higher frequencies have limited range, the “densification” of cell sites will continue, such as the deployment of more sites, with a smaller radius of coverage (see below)  

Figure 1: Cell site densification over time

• Low-latency applications will drive the need for more computing power, closer to the network edge. For example, a transition from having occasional autonomous vehicles to having a fully AI-managed traffic system (possibly including aerial traffic due to the proliferation of drones) will require that system to have extremely low latency at a local level 

What this means for the access network:

1. Many more wireless nodes will appear in locations that are hard to predict right now
2. There will be a need to site at least small amounts of server/processing power in locations that cover a small area, but may or may not be suitable to locate on a subscriber premise
3. Both #1 and #2 will present revenue opportunities for the access network operator – but the operator will lose those opportunities to another operator/technology if unable to provide the required data connection

How to build the access network today: Expandable, Flexible and Accessible

The key to maximizing these future revenue opportunities is with the three key characteristics of the AFL Converged Access Network solution: Expandability, Flexibility and Accessibility

Expandability 
The network must be able to handle not only more traffic in the future, but also more connection points – at locations that will be hard to predict. An “extreme-edge” computing node may show up where today there is a cabinet or a macro cell site, and this may require additional fiber connections.  6G access points will show up wherever the RF coverage map says they should, modified for power availability and a suitable location, such as a pole, to put it. All of these will generate more traffic, and they may need a unique fiber connection. For example, they may not be suitable for multiplexing onto the same fiber as other traffic. AFL’s high-density, high-fiber count solutions for the access network allow for the deployment of more fiber in the same space, at a minimal incremental cost, to provide the network with this future expandability.

Flexibility
Exactly when and where these new connections (and revenue) opportunities will appear, is something we cannot predict.  But if operators design flexibility into their networks now, they will be ready for these moves/adds/changes. Let’s look at one way AFL solutions enhance the flexibility of a network.  

In Figure 2, we see two examples of a situation where two 864 fiber cables are meeting and being spliced together in a network. On the left is the solution from AFL’s competitors. It typically requires a 30”x60#x30” handhole to accommodate a slack loop and splice case. On the right is the AFL solution.  With Wrapping Tube Cable and the Apex® X-2S Sealed Splice Closure, operators can achieve the same results in only a 17x30x18” space. This gives them the flexibility to either use a smaller handhole and have more options for siting it, or use the same size handhole and have plenty of space to bring in more cables later. Or, split the difference and use a 24x36x24” handhole. Regardless, this is just one example of how AFL provides the network operator with options today, which can make the network more flexible to accommodate changes in the future.

Figure 2: AFL solutions make more efficient use of available space and volume, providing flexibility to the network operator

Accessibility
No matter what, when a new physical layer connection needs to be made, somebody needs to go out to the field and make that connection. And when they do, that connection can be complicated and present risks to the network. AFL’s solutions make the network accessible, meaning that technicians can make those connections quickly, simply and at lower risk.
The design of the APEX splice closure is a great example of this. We have designed it for the splice technician, making it easier to re-enter, route fibers and make a new splice without disrupting existing connections. Wrapping Tube Cable with SpiderWeb Ribbon® makes it easier to identify and handle the specific fibers that technicians need to access. And finally, we have a straightforward, yet reliable and effective system for re-sealing the closure – reducing the risk that a move/add/change might cause problems later on.

Summary
6G and its associated applications are a big unknown today. But among the few things we do now are that 6G nodes will require data connections, and that we can’t predict today where those nodes will be, but that each of those nodes will represent a revenue-generating opportunity for whoever can provide a data connection. Similarly, ultra-low-latency applications will drive compute power closer to the edge – but we can’t predict how far to the edge, when and exactly where those compute locations will be. Again, though, we do know that they will require data connections, and those will be revenue opportunities for whoever can provide that.

The best way for access network operators to prepare themselves for the 6G and “extreme edge computing” future, is to design a network that has the expandability to accommodate more connections; the flexibility to make those connections when, where and how they occur; and the accessibility for those moves/adds/changes to be done quickly and simply and with the lowest possible risk to the rest of the network.  AFL’s solutions provide all of these characteristics.  To learn more, contact us today.

Day four began with more product reviews. During a morning Test and Inspection breakout session, guests were asked to hit the EASY button when they realized how easy it is to use our products.

During lunch, Jody Gallagher, President and CEO, Steve Ferguson, Executive Vice President of Sales and Kurt Dallas, President of our Product Solutions, hosted an executive roundtable.

Thursday was also the final day of our Solutions Fair, a time to showcase our products and end-to-end solutions. 

We enjoyed learning and growing together and can’t wait until 2024!

• Fresh New Designs
• Advanced Search Capabilities
• Easier Navigation
• Mobile-Friendly Aesthetics   
• Simplified Communication
• Platform for the Future

Continue reading to learn why this is a game changer for our associates and most importantly, our customers.

Fresh New Designs

AFL is a perennial leader when it comes to the development of innovative products for the telecommunications markets. So, it made sense for us to align our new website with Innovation, one of our Core Values.

The Marketing team contracted with an outside marketing agency to revamp the look and feel of the website, and to gain a fresh perspective. We sought a modern and intuitive interface that would make it easier for our customers to engage with us and our content. The goal was to keep the site simple and clean while reflecting AFL's growth.

The new design has more images and less text, making it visually appealing and engaging. Rounded edges from the Fujikura logo were used in photo frames and graphic elements. Stylized lines, inspired by cables and conductors, were also used as design elements. These lines give a sense of energy and motion that move the viewer’s eyes through the site. Calls-to-action are highlighted with the Fujikura blue to stand out on the white background.

Advanced Search Capabilities

Our customers and even our associates often commented, "we cannot find what we are looking for," so upgrading the search functionality was a top priority when creating the new DXP. The search bar was added as prominently as possible, and a new search tool was configured. Not only will this new tool make search better, but by leveraging Machine Learning (ML) and Artificial Intelligence (AI), it will continue to improve and enhance.

Easier Navigation

With the help of our design agency and external implementation team, the navigation was designed to be more intuitive. As shown above, the large menu drops down with a touch or click, directing users to their desired content in the fewest clicks.

To navigate the new site, click the primary category to expand and see the full section menu.

In the image below, browsers can click on the Company Profile to see high-level page content for that section.

Pictured below on the left, browsers can navigate to Careers, Community or EHS.

By clicking EHS, browsers can see other sub-categories to explore more specific details.

Better breadcrumbs on each page allow users to quickly know where they are and go back to a broader view of content with just one click.

Mobile Navigation

The below image shows the mobile, touch-friendly navigation display.

Mobile-Friendly Aesthetics

As more and more traffic is mobile, modern design and best practices insisted that mobile visitors were addressed first. Not only is the new website visually appealing from your desktop, but it’s also mobile-friendly. Regardless of the operating system or device, the user experience will be positive.

Simplified Communication Options | Site Feedback

Feedback from customers confirmed that they were confused as how best to contact us, so we created one contact form which offers an opportunity to simply contact us or request a quote. The contact form is present on most web pages and feeds into Salesforce to ensure a timely response.

Platform for the Future

After an exhausting search of the best platforms for digital experience, the IT and Marketing teams selected a best-in-class DXP platform with the following benefits:

• Digital Asset Management (DAM) — an intuitive and organized solution for storing, managing, and accessing assets.
• Experience Manager —creates, manages, and publishes to digital properties across the globe in any language.
• Digital Experience (DX) and Customer Experience (CX) — DX and CX build relationships with our customers by telling great stories and using AI to let our humanity show.
• AI and ML — AI and ML drives personalized digital customer experiences to a whole new level, and transforms casual visitors into engaged, loyal and long-term brand ambassadors.
• Personalization — this cloud-native solution delivers tailored experiences to every customer, on any channel and at scale.

Special Thanks to the Core and Extended Teams

To ensure the success of this project, we included representatives across all geographies and business units. We would like to recognize these groups of associates who contributed their time and talents to ensure the new digital experience would be the best it could be.

The Diamond Technology Reviews is one of the industry’s most prestigious awards program. Judged by third-party experts in the industry, this program recognizes achievements in a wide range of technologies such as cabling and accessories, field test instruments, video processing and distribution, Wi-Fi solutions, broadband communications and more. The scores range from 1.0 Diamond-5.0 Diamonds; however, only the products ranked 3.5 and above are considered superlative by the panel.

Both the Apex sealed splice closure and the FlexScan TS100 FTTH PON Troubleshooter were honored with 4.0 Diamonds in the Cabling and Accessories category and Field Test Instruments category, respectively. The recent uptick in data plus the lack of a skilled workforce have revealed a greater need for products that are easy to use, maintain, install and upgrade. As a result, AFL designed the Apex to meet these demands. The purpose of this product is to lower installation time, enhance network reliability and increase the density of fiber splices. Its wedge-based gel sealing system combined with cable strain relief make these goals possible.

The FlexScan TS100 is another great solution since its all-in-one tool detects, identifies, locates and resolves single-mode optical network issues. It’s also very easy to use and requires little-to-no training, which makes it more accessible to technicians with a wider range of experience levels.

The FlowScout PON Optical Power Meter and the Port Saver OTDR Connectors were awarded 3.5 Diamonds also in the Field Test Instruments category. FlowScout was recognized for its versatility since it can be used on multiple PON networks such as BPON, EPON, GPON, 10G-EPON, XG-PON, XGS-PON and video network verification and troubleshooting.

Last, but not least, are AFL’s Port Saver Field-Replaceable Port Saver Connectors. Designed to fit all FlexScan OTDRs, these connectors are easily replaced in the field if damaged and eliminates expensive and time-consuming factory repair. Until now, a damaged OTDR connector would have required factory repair to replace the damaged ferrule. However, the ease and convenience of replacing these connectors now maximize a technician’s time in the field.

According to BTR, a 3.5 rating describes a solid product with unique and beneficial attributes that set it apart. A 4.0-4.5 score is reserved for exceptional products with certain technical features and performance capabilities that alludes to substantial benefits. Finally, first-class and ground-breaking products that create new standards in the industry receive a score of 5.0 Diamonds.

Why the change?

A generational moment

Lasting for generations

The challenge

Scenario: a C-RAN Hub/Macro Cell site-based Edge Computing Center

Expandability

Flexibility

Accessibility

• SpiderWeb Ribbon that enables up to three times more fiber with the same or smaller diameter as traditional loose tube fiber cables.
• 90R series mass fusion splicing machines to deliver rapid, best-in-class performance when splicing ribbon fiber cables.
• Very High Density Wall cabinets which can accommodate up to 6,912 splices for transitioning from OSP cable to indoor cable.
• ASCEND® modular platform for easy and manageable fiber connectivity in data centers, central offices and headends.
• FlexScan® OTDRs with MPO switches which can reduce ODTR test times by a factor of 10.
• FOCIS Lightning 2® fiber inspection tools which deliver 10X faster inspection results than traditional scopes.

• A wireless service provider decides to build a millimeter-wave 5G network in a certain area, and now seeks backhaul/fronthaul connections every 100 meters throughout an area of a couple square miles. While we can anticipate that these types of deployments will happen, it is difficult for a wireline provider to predict exactly where a wireless operator will place their radios, how many they will place, and how many fiber connections are needed per radio.
• A new business usage pattern emerges. Consider a garage that used to hold a car repair shop which needed email, voice, and parts ordering – and is now being replaced by a custom manufacturing shop with 3D printers and other equipment that is highly automated and needs to regularly receive massive CAD files from customers. 
• Consider, also, an existing large factory.  At some point in the near future, they may find they now have a business case to completely overhaul their equipment with more automation and monitoring, which could generate 10-100x the data traffic.
• An ecosystem develops to support large numbers of autonomous and interconnected vehicles, but it has data backhaul and edge computing requirements that we haven’t foreseen.

Recently, AFL tested new MPO and single fiber connectors ordered off the Internet. They were inspected right out of the packaging and the findings were startling. Almost 40 percent failed. View the images below taken of these connectors with AFL’s FOCIS Lightning® inspection probe.

        

Above: Examples of failed inspection on new single fiber and MPO (far right) connectors.

During these extraordinary times, AFL continues to manufacture high quality, innovative products and provide outstanding engineering and installation services. “Customers First” is one of our Core Values. In everything we do, we are working so that you can continue to deliver superior support and services to your customers.

On May 1, President Trump signed an Executive Order to secure the United States bulk power system. Specifically, this guards against the purchase and installation of products from foreign adversaries. With the nation’s bulk power system being a potential target, AFL is committed to protecting the integrity of the transmission and substation electrical grid.

AFL manufactures its fiber optic cable, fiber optic hardware, transmission, substation and distribution products at multiple facilities in Spartanburg, South Carolina, USA. Because we manufacture within the United States, we believe our products, inclusive of Optical Ground Wire (OPGW), ADSS, transmission and substation system components, align with this Executive Order and the intent of President Trump.

AFL remains fully committed to serving you with integrity, connecting you with innovative technologies, exceptional products and high-quality services. We will continue to do this today, throughout this international crisis and into the future, especially as we return to normal operating conditions.

We appreciate your business. If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to me directly.

I hope you and your families continue to stay safe during this COVID situation.

Thank you.

Stephen T. Ferguson
EVP, Sales, Marketing & Customer Service
Sales@AFLglobal.com

• Protects the delicate fiber
• Removes oil, dust, and dirt particulates that can damage connectors and have a negative impact on fiber optic network performance  
• Extends the life of connections, thereby reducing replacement costs
• Ensures accurate testing measurements and operation
• Delivers 500+ cleans making it a low cost solution 
• Available for a variety of single and multi-fiber connectors including SC, FC, ST, LC, MU, ODU, MT-RJ, Duplex LC and MPO.

I would like to take this opportunity to wish all of you well. I hope you and your families are all safe. As the Coronavirus epidemic continues to create enormous disruption to our daily lives and businesses, I wanted to personally give you an update.

Fortunately, at this moment, I am not aware of any AFL associate that has tested positive for the virus. I continually ask the entire AFL team to follow local health and wellness guidelines for social distancing to reduce the risks of further spread.

The overall uncertainty of this is very stressful to all of us. There are many unanswered questions that add to this stress, and once I have clarity on what this means to our business, I will communicate that. Our production facilities remain operational and, while supply chains have been strained, we are still in a very positive position with these companies.

Many of you, our valued customers, and several products and services that AFL provides, are designated as business essential. Therefore, our objective is to continue to service anyone who has immediate requirements and critical needs. We completely understand you are counting on us for support now more than ever.

I want to personally thank your business-critical associates who continue operating facilities and any field services teams that interact closely with the general public. I recognize some of the challenges that you are dealing with every day, but again, thank you. I am so grateful to see how the entire AFL community of associates, customers and suppliers have responded to this crisis.

I am confident that we will get through this, but it will not be easy, and it will take longer than any of us would like. I am hopeful we will see signs of improvement in the near term and some of the restrictions can be eased.

Please keep your families safe, follow the guidance from your health officials and try to remain optimistic. We are here for you, as we are all in this together.

Jody Gallagher
AFL President & CEO

AFL is closely monitoring the dynamics of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) situation and continues to take necessary steps to mitigate the impact on the health and safety of our associates and customers, as well as global business operations.

In addition to implementing all mandates defined by global/national/local authorities, we have assembled our own global task force that is monitoring the rapidly-evolving Coronavirus situation and communicating transparently. We currently have many of associates working remotely and have limited access to our facilities by those potentially at risk. Our global AFL travel bans have been extended to meet requirements and all local company and industry event participation is cancelled.

Currently, we are not experiencing significant threats to our supply chain even with new developments and logistical challenges seen around the globe. We were able to get in front of many of these issues and this has proven beneficial. AFL uses dual-sourcing for most components and assembly operations in multiple geographies. However, with the possibility of government-ordered factory shutdowns to limit the spread of the Coronavirus, the impact on production cannot be predicted.

We will continue to evaluate all options to minimize disruption to your business. Please contact your local AFL representative with any questions or issues with any/ all current orders in process.

Thank you for your patience and understanding as we all work through this situation together.
~ AFL Executive Leadership Team

AFL is truly a global company. We have major operations in Canada, US, Mexico, UK, Germany, Australia and China. Each of our locations has been impacted to some degree by COVID 19. For example, in China we have seen major improvements and people are returning to work. That is certainly a positive sign and hope remains high that further recovery will continue.

I mentioned in my last communication that AFL’s products and services are deemed essential because of the critical nature they play in our communications infrastructure. We are trying very hard to balance the importance of safety for our AFL teams, while continuing to serve your needs. I am encouraged by the fact that the majority of our AFL associates want to remain at work. I know many companies have shut down due to lack of demand or government restrictions, so we are fortunate with our current situation.

I realize there is uncertainty about what the future holds. In some AFL locations, we have had to adjust our staffing based on changes in demand and overall market conditions. I am aware that our services businesses often require travel across US state lines and entrance onto customer premises. We will continue to manage these situations as they arise, while keeping your safety and the well-being of our associates in mind at all times.

On the positive side, many of you reached out to recognize the commitment of our AFL associates worldwide. Thank you. We have a large group of people who are working remote and learning how to serve each of you in these new conditions. I have asked our AFL teams to remain focused and to make continued improvements while working remotely, in the field or within our production facilities. It is very important for us to CONNECT, communicate and support your needs now more than ever, and we will continue to provide updates to our situation in the future.

I know these times are stressful, but we will get through this together. I have confidence in the AFL team and that will make a difference. Please remember to support each other and maintain a spirit of optimism in this very difficult time. Thank you.

1. Networks built around ribbon fiber save time and money and are better prepared for the future
2. Technology changes to cable, connectivity and fusion splicing qualitatively reduce installation time
3. Time studies conducted with the latest technologies demonstrate time-saving opportunities from a maintenance or installer perspective