Fiber optic networks offer many benefits for businesses, including reliability, security, greater bandwidth, and delivery of high-speed internet service.
At The Network Installers, we have a dedicated team of highly skilled contractors available to integrate fiber optic cabling into new or existing buildings.
Our fiber optic installation process covers everything from planning and preparation to termination and testing. But how does it work? Keep reading to find out.
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Fiber Optic Installation Guide
Planning
The fiber optic installation process begins with thoroughly planning your infrastructure and fiber optic cable design. For new construction fiber optic installations, careful consideration is given to establishing the most efficient cable routes and ensuring the design integrates seamlessly with the building’s layout.
On your fiber internet installation appointment, our team will work with you to identify the best way to run fiber cables through your building and determine the optimal fiber optic cable routing for your network, especially if there are no existing lines.
Preparing the Tools
Fiber optic technicians rely on a range of kit during the installation process. This includes:
- fiber optic cleavers
- strippers, pulling eyes, and polishers
- fiber optic connectors
- fiber optic cable ties and clamps
Testing equipment such as an OTDR, light source, and power meter will also be required.
Determining Fiber Optic Bend Radius
Unlike copper wires, which are slightly more robust, fiber optic cables are delicate. Therefore, it is important to handle them carefully and avoid bending or swiveling them.
Your fiber optic cable installer will work with the new fiber’s minimum bend radius to ensure the cables are positioned to maximize performance.
They’ll also know the pulling tension the fiber optic cable can handle before the outer jacket and interior become damaged. Once the plan is finalized, we will begin prep work for fiber optic cable installation.
Preparing Your Site
If fiber optic cables are being laid underground, excavating trenches and installing an underground conduit may be necessary before they can be laid. Alternatively, your fiber optic installers may mount utility poles for an aerial installation if there is existing infrastructure in the customer’s home.
This additional telecommunications infrastructure could be required because fiber optics are a delicate type of cable that can be easily damaged if not adequately protected.
Our team will take all the necessary precautions to ensure your cables are safe and secure, often beneath the ground in a fiber-to-the-premises (FTTP) or fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) installation.
Laying the Fiber Optic Cable
Our technicians will begin laying the fiber optic cable once the site survey and prep work are complete. This process can be time-consuming, so be prepared for a few work days. The cables are laid using one of two techniques: blowing or pulling.
In a blowing installation, the fiber optic cable is inserted into a tube, and compressed air is blown through the length of the duct. Alternatively, the technician pulls the fiber optic cable through the duct by hand in a pulling installation.
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Testing & Certification
After termination, the fiber optic cables must be tested and certified to meet all the requirements.
Our team will perform a series of tests on each fiber optic cable, including insertion loss, return loss, and OTDR testing. Your network will be ready for use only once all the tests have been passed.
Powering up Your Network Box
When your fiber optic cables are in place, your technician will connect your network box to your optical network terminal using an ethernet cable.
Your network box can be powered up, and you’ll connect other devices, such as your desktops, servers, routers, laptops, and printers, to the Wi-Fi network.
Securing Your Fiber Optic Network
Securing your fiber optic network after your power cable fibers are connected to the optical network terminal is critical. You must set up password-protected user accounts and configure your firewall to protect your data when connected to fiber internet service.
What Are the Fiber Optic Installation Standards?
The Fiber Optic Association, or FOA, sets out the minimum requirements that must be met for your fiber optic premises cabling to be considered safe and reliable. These standards are defined for the following service areas of the installation process:
- Fiber optic cable installation
- Connector inspection and cleaning
- OTDR testing
- Fiber splicing or fusion splicing
- Labeling and documentation
The FOA also provides certification for fiber optic technicians, recognized worldwide.
How Fiber-Optic Connection Works
Fiber optic internet is transmitted through thin strands of glass, which send digital information using pulses of light.
When these pulses reach your computer, they’re converted into electrical signals so your device can understand.
It means you can enjoy high speeds over long distances with more reliability than traditional copper cables or internet-connected DSL connections from fiber internet providers.
Key Components in Fiber Optic Installation
Optical Fiber Cable vs. Copper Cables
Unlike copper cables, an optical fiber cable transmits data using light, offering higher bandwidth and lower signal loss over long distances.
Loose Tube Cables for Outdoor Installations
Loose tube cables are designed for harsh outdoor environments, protecting fiber strands from moisture and temperature fluctuations, making them ideal for long-distance applications.
Importance of Fiber Optic Testing
Using a fiber optic tester ensures proper installation by measuring signal strength, detecting faults, and verifying network integrity.
Cable Blowing for Efficient Deployment
Cable blowing is a modern installation method where fiber optic cables are pushed through ducts using compressed air, allowing for faster and damage-free installation.
Role of Cable Trays in Fiber Management
Cable trays help organize and protect fiber optic cables in data centers and industrial setups, ensuring efficient routing and reduced cable damage.
Understanding Passive Optical Networks (PON)
A passive optical network (PON) is a cost-effective fiber-optic architecture that enables high-speed broadband without requiring active electronic components between the service provider and end users.
FAQs
Why should you avoid fiber optic self-installation?
While it may be tempting to install fiber optics yourself, this method is not recommended. Even if you think it is a common method, several things can go wrong during a fiber internet installation, which could lead to a substandard network and possible data loss and attenuation.
It’s also important to note that fiber optic cables are different from traditional copper cables; for instance, technicians should align the ends of two fiber strands and melt the two fibers together to make an electric arc.
They require a different type of installation and should only be handled by qualified technicians.
How much does it cost to install fiber optic internet?
The exact cost of your fiber optic installation will be based on various factors. For example, the excavation level or the infrastructure for fiber cable installation will affect the overall installation fee.
The length and type of fiber optic cabling will also determine the price of your installation project, with multimode fiber often being more expensive than single-mode optical fiber.
Generally, the network installation cost for fiber optic internet will be higher than for traditional broadband, but it will deliver high speed internet and a more reliable connection.
When will my fiber optic network be ready?
This depends on several factors, such as the complexity of the installation, liaising with your service provider (fiber internet provider), and the availability of technicians. However, our team will work quickly to get your network running.
What maintenance is required for fiber optic cables?
Fiber optic cables require minimal maintenance but should be regularly inspected for physical damage, signal loss, or degradation.
Maintenance tasks include checking the fiber connection, ensuring proper fiber optic cable management to avoid bends or breaks, and using diagnostic tools to test signal strength and quality.
Start Your Fiber Optic Cables Installation Process
The Network Installers, your trusted fiber optic installation company, installs fiber optic cable for businesses of all sizes.
If you’re ready to switch to a faster, more reliable internet connection, our team can help. Contact us today for a free consultation and estimate.
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