ISE Network Innovators' Awards 2025 - AFL's Apex® X-1 Sealed Splice Closure
The Apex X-1 Sealed Splice Closure is the newest and smallest member of AFL's Apex family of sealed splice closures, and has revolutionized the industry's approach to fiber deployment. As the most compact sealed dome splice closure in its class, this latest design balances size optimization with exceptional performance.
The Apex X-1 supports up to 144 single fusion, 432 mass fusion with standard ribbon, or 864 mass fusion with "rollable ribbon" fiber types such as AFL's SpiderWebRibbon. AFL's ISP customers find this closure perfect for local small networks and rural FTTx applications where reliability and efficiency are needed. Based on the same trusted technology that powers the larger Apex models, this more compact solution delivers enterprise-grade protection while addressing the challenges of rural fiber deployment.
As technology demands grow, so does the need for fiber deployments, particularly in rural and underserved areas. The Apex X-1 enables the industry to deliver high-quality fiber deployment while maintaining operational efficiency and high standards.
The wedge entry system gives installers the advantage of speed and ease of use, while the universal splice trays offer better slack management with depth optimization for rigid ribbon, Spider Web Ribbon or loose fiber.
Key features include individual cable sealing ports with tool-less release mechanism and gel sealing; hinging, lockable splice trays; plastic slack storage basket with multiple tie-down points; splice trays with universal splice modules; capability for up to 8 drop cables with an expressed distribution cable using multi-drop entry kits; and 4 cable ports with up to 3 ground lugs.
An ISE judge said: "This is a nice evolution of this product. A great combination of small size and straightforward cable and splice management. Sealing the closure and the individual fiber ports is easy for field forces and reliable."