Prysmian to deliver 'upgradeable' copper telecom cables to KPN

Prysmian Telecom Cables and Systems has signed a frame contract for the supply of upgradeable copper telecom cables specially developed to address a number of critical requirements for KPN, the national telecoms operator in the Netherlands.

The contract will see Prysmian supply a range of cables which allow for easy migration to an optical network.

For those cables used in the 'last mile' of the network, the designers have created cables where the copper core can be removed in situ allowing optical fibres to be blown into the remaining 'tube'. At a time when many operators in Europe are evaluating the opportunities presented by Fibre to the Home (FTTH) systems, Prysmian and KPN are building an upgradeable system facilitating migration to optical networks in the future. All new subscriber connections will be realised in this manner.

Furthermore, with much of the Netherlands lying below sea level, a significant part of the KPN cable system is permanently immersed in water. Consequently, a highly effective water blocking system has been developed to ensure that there is no danger of water penetration and to ensure the long term integrity of the cables.

We regard this as a significant breakthrough project, said Mr. Gert Hoefman of Prysmian. The technical demands on underground cables in the Netherlands are very severe. However by working closely with KPN to fully understand these issues we believe we have provided them with an innovative solution to satisfy their network needs, both today and in the future.

The cables will be produced at the Prysmian facility in Chavanoz, France with purchasing and installation activities being carried out by VolkerWessels Telecom I Infra.