Telecom operators and integrators face increasing pressure in the rapidly changing landscape of fiber-optic infrastructure to deploy networks more quickly, more reliably, and at a lower cost. No two deployment environments are alike, whether it's rural broadband or dense urban rollouts. Custom MST Box (Multi-port Service Terminals) provide a flexible solution that can be scaled to meet the varying requirements. This allows for streamlined installation, improved performance, and easier maintenance.
This blog will explore the benefits of custom MST Enclosures for modern fiber deployments. It will also outline the types of MST Enclosures that are available and how customization can enhance operational efficiency.
What is an MST Box?
An MST Box, also known as a Multiport-Service Terminal Box, is a type of outdoor fiber access enclosure that connects distribution cables to optical drop cables in FTTx networks. These fiber optic MST Box are designed to be robust, pre-connectorized, and easy to install, providing plug-and-play fiber terminal functionality that minimizes field splicing.
Standard Features of MST Box:
IP68-rated MST Box: Waterproof and dustproof protection
Various port configurations: 4, 6, 8, 12, 16, or more
SC/APC or SC/UPC pre-terminated adapters
Supports pole-mount, strand-mount, Handhole mount,pedestal-mount
Ideal for both underground and aerial deployments
Available with hardened connectors or standard SC connectors
Why choose a custom MST box?
Off-the-shelf fiber-optic distribution Box might meet general needs but often fall short when deployed in unique or demanding environments. Custom MST boxes are designed to meet specific project requirements. They can reduce installation times, increase network compatibility, and facilitate future scalability.
Benefits of Customized MST Solutions :
Port counts and connector types can be tailored (SC, MPO, LC)
Material selection based on the environment: corrosion-resistant, UV-resistant, and flame-retardant.
Drop cable assemblies pre-terminated with exact length and pull eye options
Supports different mounting types: pole-mount, strand-mount, Handhole mount
Long-term durability in harsh outdoor conditions
Asset management with custom branding, QR codes, and laser marking
MST Box– Tailored for Every Scenario
At SpringOptic, we offer a comprehensive portfolio of MST enclosures customized to meet diverse deployment needs. Below are the six most common types of fiber distribution terminals:
1. Standard MST Box – Pure Fiber Termination
Use Case: FTTH or traditional ODN deployments
Ports Available: 4, 6, 8, 12, 16
Connector Types: SC/APC, SC/UPC
The most commonly used fiber access terminal box features multiple output ports and provides pre-connectorized fiber interfaces for fast last-mile deployments.
✅ Example Products:
16 Port MST Fiber Optic Waterproof Box
6 Core Fiber Multiport Terminal with SuperTap DLC Drop Cables
12 Fiber MST Enclosure with FiberHub Terminal
8 Port Outdoor Fiber Terminal Box with Fastconnect SST Drop Cable
2. MST Box With Built-in Splitters
Use Case: PON (Passive Optical Network) deployments
Splitters: 1x4, 1x8, or custom configurations
This pre-terminated MST terminal integrates fiber optic splitters, enabling one feeder fiber to serve multiple users, ideal for FTTH.
✅ Example Products:
8 Port MST With Pre-Installed Splitters
SuperTap MST Enclosure with Integrated PLC Splitters
Hybrid MST With Dual Splitters for Dense Access Zones
3. Hybrid Power-Fiber MST Box
Use Case: Remote power applications like FTTA or PoE
Integration: Fiber + DC power
This fiber optic MST box combines optical and electrical conductors for powering remote devices such as cameras or small cell radios.
✅ Example Products:
12 Fiber + 2Pin Power Hybrid MST Terminal
4. MPO/MTP MST Box
Use Case: Data centers, 5G fronthaul/backhaul
Connector: MPO/MTP
Designed for high-density applications, this hardened fiber terminal allows fast deployment using multi-fiber connectors.
✅ Example Products:
9 Port MPO MST Terminal with MPO Pigtails
MTP-Based FiberHub MST Box for Dense Installations
5. MST with Toneable Drop Cable
Use Case: Underground or hybrid environments requiring cable tracing
Feature: Toneable cables for OSP signal tracking
This outdoor fiber terminal box includes traceable drop cables for easy field maintenance using tone-and-probe tools.
✅ Example Products:
12 Fiber MST with Toneable SST Drops
Handhole MST Enclosure With Toneable Cable
6. MST Box with Special Drop Cable or Split Jumpers
Use Case: Space-limited environments requiring custom fiber assemblies
Feature: Pre-terminated jumpers or specialized fiber types
These fiber access terminal boxes are designed for compact installations and support cables like flat dielectric or armored cables.
✅ Example Products:
SuperTap Splitter Terminal With Single-Tube Jumpers
MST Box Applications
FTTH Applications
In traditional FTTH deployments, optical network units or fiber distribution hubs are used to extend the trunk fiber optical cable outside residential buildings, such as mansions and villas. MST Box is an alternative to ONU and FDH, integrating fiber distribution within a single enclosure. The MST Box is designed to house 2 to 4 1x8 PLC splitters and up to 24 fiber protection sleeves. The MST Box can be used in conjunction with pre-assembled waterproof connectors rated IP67 that support 1 to 48 fibers. This allows direct fiber connectivity for individual residences and low-voltage distribution points. This device can either be mounted on utility poles or installed on the exterior of a building. The MST Box reduces the signal attenuation by reducing the number of connections. MST Boxes that are factory pre-terminated do not require on-site fiber splicing. This allows installation to be performed by technicians with less technical expertise, and increases installation efficiency by about 40%.
FTTA Applications
In a conventional mobile network, Remote Radio Units are connected to Baseband Units using optical fiber links with a star topology. Each RRU is required to have an individual outdoor duplex cable to the BBU. The installation costs and time are increased by this method. The MST Box is a convergence point and distribution point for multiple RRUs that are linked to a BBU by using a single multi-fiber cable hybrid from the BBU into the MST Box. Fibers are distributed inside the MST box to each RRU using pre-assembled waterproof cables rated IP67. RRUs are powered by the MST Box's built-in connectors, which eliminate redundant power cables and simplify deployment.
Trunk Cable Management
Due to the limited length of cable drums, trunk cables often require frequent fusion splicing, making the splice points vulnerable and in need of robust protection. When trunk cables enter the MST Box, they are secured and sealed using anti-torsion cable glands available in plastic or metal variants. The MST Box offers a range of accessories compatible with cable diameters from 5mm to 14mm. These torsion-resistant glands relieve mechanical stress during cable bending and safeguard the fiber cores from damage. Inside the enclosure, the main fiber cable and its strength members are firmly anchored with fasteners, ensuring the MST Box can withstand sustained pulling forces up to 1200 Newtons. Splice protection sleeves (up to 24 units) and PLC splitters (up to 2 units) can be conveniently mounted inside the enclosure, simplifying fiber management and division. The base of the MST Box features an anti-slip design that securely fixes the box onto wires or poles, enhancing installation stability.
Build your MST box your way
The following options are available when customizing your Fiber Optic MST Box:
1. Port Configuration and Connectors
Port count: 4, 6, 8, 12, or 16
Interface types: SC/UPC/APC/LC/MPO
Hybrid deployments with mixed ports
High Compatibility: MST boxes are available with a variety of connectors, such as ODVA connector, H connector, Mini-SC, ODC connector, PTLC connector, PTMPO connector, or even Power Adapters. This allows for seamless integration into various hybrid or fiber network architectures.
2. Drop Cable Assembly
Pre-terminated cables with precise lengths
Pulling the eyes or the strength members
Options: toneable, armored, flat, or dielectric
3. Protective Enclosure Materials & Materials
Materials: ABS or PC+ABS.
IP68 sealing for harsh environments
Flame retardant and UV stabilized options
4. Mounting and Accessories
The following mounting methods are available: aerial terminal box (pole, strand, pedestal, or wall),
Bands, clamps, and locking kits made of stainless steel
5. Custom Branding and Labeling
Laser engraving and port ID marking
Stickers with OEM logos
Smart inventory using QR codes and RFID tags
SpringOptic: Your Trusted Partner for Custom MST Solutions
At SpringOptic, we specialize in high-performance, custom MST enclosures tailored to your deployment needs:
Up to 24 ports in IP68-rated waterproof fiber terminal boxes
SC, LC, MPO, or hybrid connectors
Pre-connectorized MST boxes with armored or toneable drop cables
Short lead times with full OEM/ODM support
Full compliance with GR-326, IEC 61753, and environmental test standards
Whether you're deploying a greenfield FTTH project or upgrading legacy infrastructure, SpringOptic delivers scalable, reliable, and customizable fiber access terminal solutions.
Custom MST boxes are essential for efficient, scalable, and future-proof fiber deployments. With options like integrated splitters, toneable drop cables, hybrid power delivery, and multi-fiber connectors, SpringOptic provides tailored fiber optic MST box solutions that meet the demands of any environment.
Has in-house R&D, mold/tooling, and manufacturing capabilities
Supports small MOQs for unique builds
Conforms to GR-326, Telcordia, and IEC 61300 standards
Full optical test and mechanical report
Fast global prototyping & logistics
Ready to design your custom MST box?
SpringOptic today for expert advice and tailored product support.
