3M says its new Slim Lock Closure for wireless applications weatherproofs coaxial jumper cable connections on the cell tower where 7/16 DIN connectors are used. The compact closure protects connections at the antenna and remote radio unit (RRU) and complements fiber to the antenna (FTTA) installations.
According to 3M, FTTA cell tower architectures require a different weatherproofing approach from the traditional tapes and mastics. The Slim Lock Closure is specifically designed with a narrow body to fit into congested areas, such as compact tower-mounted RRUs and connection-rich multi-band, multi-service antennas, 3M asserts.
The hard plastic closure body snaps around the connection and latches shut, sealing out water. A compliant sealing gel inside the closure conforms to the connection and displaces air so that condensation cannot occur, 3M adds.
A tower technician can install a Slim Lock Closure in a minute or less, without tools, 3M continues. Slim Lock Closures can be repeatedly opened and closed for maintenance and testing. Moreover, the closure can be re-entered without disconnecting the antenna and interrupting service.