When Fiber Deployment Changes, Tool Lines Must Expand

The Thinking Behind MB15-7100 FOJST

Identifying a Real-World Gap in Fiber Cable Preparation

A Customer-Driven Signal in Fiber Deployment

The initial surfaced through direct engagement with a major network operator.

Their need was clear:
the cable already being deployed in the network required a tool capable of delivering the same precision and control crews relied on – without risking damage to the fiber.

There was no practical workaround with existing tools, and pushing tools beyond their intended range was not a viable solution.

Validating Fiber Tool Needs in Real Deployments

Rather than treating the request as a one-off, Ripley Labs recognized it as a broader signal.

The cable driving the issue wasn’t niche – it was entering wider adoption across fiber deployments. To validate the need, Ripley worked closely with engineers, supplying 70 pre-production prototypes for hands-on evaluation in live conditions.

The feedback was consistent:

• The gap in fiber cable preparation tooling was real
• The risk to fiber integrity was unacceptable
• The solution needed to be deliberate and purpose-built

A Deliberate Design Decision: Expand, Don’t Replace

This led to a critical decision.

Rather than replacing existing MB15 tools – which continue to perform exactly as intended – Ripley choose to expand the MB15 platform.

The MB15-7100 FOJST was developed specifically for this newer cable diameter, extending the range of fiber preparation tools while preserving the workflows crews already trust.

This was not about redesigning the system – it was about adding the right tool for the reality in the field.

“Initial contact was to review a tool already in use, with a high level of urgency requiring a solution in place as quickly as possible. Given Ripley’s track record of delivering high-quality, proven tools, we were engaged to support the evaluation.

The new cable dimensions meant the existing tools would not work. Through consultation, we developed a new insert for two new cables effectively shifting the design approach.

This wasn’t the final hurdle. After successful initial testing, requirements expanded to four cables. We reconfigured the insert, tested locally, and again received first-pass approval.

To meet demand, 70 3D-printed units were deployed in field while final production samples were prepared. From consultation to delivery, the full solution came together in six months.” – Mark Fowler, Sales Application Engineer, Ripley Tools

Purpose-Built Fiber Preparation for Deployed Networks

The MB15-7100 FOJST is a targeted addition to the MB15 platform, designed to align with actual deployment conditions in fiber networks.

• Built to support modern fiber cable diameters
• Improves control during cable preparation
• Reduces the risk of fiber damage
• Delivers consistent, repeatable field performance

It integrates naturally alongside existing MB15 tools – adding capability without disrupting established processes.

Why the MB15-7100 FOJST Matters for Fiber Deployment

The conditions that necessitated this tool are already shaping fiber deployments across Europe and beyond.

This is not a speculative design exercise.
It is a response to how fiber optic installation is evolving in real time.

As network buildouts accelerate, tools must enable technicians to:

• Work efficiently at scale
• Maintain consistency across varying cable types
• Avoid rework and protect fiber integrity

The MB15-7100 FOJST directly supports these requirements.

Expanding the MB15 platform to support evolving cable requirements in modern deployments.

Key Benefits of the MB15-7100 FOJST for Fiber Cable Preparatation

Key Benefits

• Designed for modern fiber cable diameters used in current deployments
• Supports precise, controlled cable preparation
• Reduces the risk of fiber damage during installation
• Delivers consistent, repeatable results in field conditions
• Extends the MB15 platform without disrupting existing workflows

Expanding With Intent

As fiber deployment conditions continue to evolve, tool lines must evolve with them – not by replacing what already works, but by expanding thoughtfully.

That means:

• Listening to customers operating at scale
• Validating needs through real-world use
• Designing tools grounded in actual field conditions

The MB15-7100 FOJST reflects that approach: engineered with intent, built for deployed reality, and designed to support the work as it actually happens in the field.

Products mentioned in this article

New

FOSJST/DB (MB15-7100)

Direct Burial & MDU Fiber Optic Jacket Slitter

FOJST (MB15-7000)

Fiber Optic Jacket Slitter