Clearfield Extends Network Access Point Flexibility

FieldShield Multiport SmarTerminal is the Only Multiport Service Terminal to Offer Patch Only, Patch & Splice as Well as Optical Component Integration Options

MINNEAPOLIS, Jan. 28, 2014 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Clearfield, Inc. (Nasdaq:CLFD), the specialist in fiber management and connectivity platforms for communications providers, today announced that it is reducing the cost of fiber delivery in a multitude of application scenarios with the introduction of three new configurations of the FieldShield SmarTerminal. These above-grade or below-grade solutions provide the quickest and least intrusive placement method to deploy fiber to the network access point (NAP).

The FieldShield SmarTerminal is a compact, environmentally sealed enclosure providing maximum reliability and durability in the harshest of outdoor environments. Round in circumference at only 4.5 inches in diameter and 6 inches in height, the SmarTerminal can be easily mounted above grade or below-grade within a pedestal, flower pot or vault using its Snap-on Toggle Head or universal L-Bracket or Z-Bracket. With up to one meter of internal slack storage and virtually unlimited external slack storage dependent on SmarTerminal placement, the FieldShield Multiport SmarTerminal is easily configured for a wide variety of fiber to the (x) scenarios, including active, centralized split, distributed split, business class services or cell backhaul. Providing up to 16 ports of feeder and drop cable connectivity, the SmarTerminal is optimized for use with FieldShield optical cable and microduct.

"The closer you get to the FTTp endpoint, variability of network design drives the need for flexibility," said Johnny Hill, chief operating officer for Clearfield. "The FieldShield SmarTerminal accommodates all last mile strategies, allowing the broadband network designer to support the serving environment with the best configuration to lower the total cost of installation."

MPO and Patch & Splice Architectures Join the Patch Only Option for Feeder Cable Choices

FieldShield SmarTerminal was introduced to market in the fall of 2013 as a traditional multi-port service terminal providing plug & play ease of use with the added flexibility of pre-connectorized FieldShield feeder cable and pre-connectorized drop ports of up to 8 SC or 16 LC connectors. Joining the product line are two new feeder options: an MPO Breakout as well as Patch & Splice. The MPO Breakout is an alternative plug & play option, providing up to 4, 8, or 12 pre-connectorized drop ports. By feeding the SmarTerminal with an MPO feeder assembly, a single SKU can be stocked for the SmarTerminal with multiple lengths of the MPO feeders. Similar to the Clearview Cassette, the Patch & Splice feeder option comes with a one-meter, 12-fiber ribbon breakout. Mass fusion or individual splice options are supported.

Optical Components Now Integrated

For customers who are experiencing fiber constraints or prefer a distributed splitter application, optical splitters with pre-terminated drop ports can now be deployed within the SmarTerminal to split the signal and maximize network performance with a single fiber deeper into the serving area. Minimizing fiber count requirements and maximizing the efficiency of the splitter, the physical architecture and placement of pathways remain largely the same when using the SmarTerminal to service active as well as distributed-split services.

Additional Information and Availability

All elements of the FieldShield Fiber Delivery System, including FieldShield SmarTerminal, optical cable and microduct are now shipping and available from Clearfield or the distributor of your choice. For more information, go to www.clearfieldconnection.com/products/terminals/smarterminal.html.

About Clearfield, Inc.

Clearfield, Inc. (Nasdaq:CLFD) designs, manufactures and distributes fiber optic management, protection and delivery products for the communications networks of leading ILECS, CLECs, MSO/cable TV companies and mobile broadband providers. We help service providers solve the Fiber Puzzle, which is how to reduce high costs associated with deploying, managing, protecting and scaling a fiber optic network to deliver the mobile, residential and business services customers want. Based on the patented Clearview™ Cassette, our unique single-architected, modular fiber management platform is designed to lower the cost of broadband deployment and maintenance by consolidating, protecting and distributing incoming and outgoing fiber circuits and enable our customers to scale their operations as their subscriber revenues increase. Headquartered in Plymouth, MN, Clearfield deploys millions of fiber ports each year throughout North America and beyond.

CONTACT: Clearfield PR Contact
         Christy Kemp
         Calysto Communications
         Tel: + 1 404 266 2060 x539
         ckemp@calysto.com

Released January 28, 2014