Fiber optic cables are the backbone of modern communication systems, providing high-speed internet and data transfer capabilities. Proper installation is crucial for ensuring optimal performance and longevity. This guide will walk you through the essential steps and best practices for installing fiber optic cables, depending on your specific situation.

How do I get fiber optic cable installed in my house/apartment?

Here are the steps you will likely follow if you wish for a fiber optic cable to be installed in your apartment:

• Contact your local internet service providers (ISPs) to determine if fiber optic service is available in your area.
• You can also check online tools or maps provided by ISPs to see if your location is covered. Some notable fiber optic providers in the United States are FiberTechs, The Network Installers, National Technologies (NTI), and MasTec.
• If fiber optic service is available in your area, select the plan that is best for you based on speed, price, and other factors relevant to you.
• If the network is not readily available in your area, you can contact several ISPs and ask them if they have plans to expand to your area. If they currently don't, you can talk to people in your community and gather information on the demand in your area. Homeowners' Associations (HOAs) and other bodies can advocate for this based on your demand, and signatures are usually a popular step to proceed. Your community may also opt to hire broadband planning consultants. ISPs will usually agree to install the network if there is demand and potential profit.

Fiber Optic Cable Installation Steps

• Now, let's take you through what to expect from actual fibre optic installation. First, agree on the details of installation with a provider. Prepare your house for installation as per the instructions of your provider. You will likely have to clear the installation path. If it is fibre-to-the-home (FTTH), the installation company might need to trench your premises.
• Fiber optic cable installation varies by application. Fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) usually requires underground installation for better protection and reliability. In contrast, fibre-to-the-premises (FTTP) can be installed either underground or aerially, depending on factors like cost and existing infrastructure.
• Pulling and blowing are two common techniques for installing fibre optic cables.
• Pulling involves physically pulling the fibre optic cable through conduits using a winch or similar equipment, which is generally used for shorter distances and existing conduit pathways.
• Blowing, or jetting, uses compressed air to propel the cable through conduits, making it ideal for long distances and new installations, as it reduces the risk of physical damage to the cable by minimizing friction and tension.
• Fiber optic cables can be routed through conduits, raceways, or cable trays.
• The technician will route the fibre optic cable from the nearest connection point (e.g., utility pole or underground conduit) to the apartment building or your house.
• In a private house, the technician will install a pull box outside your home. In an apartment building, the pull box will be installed at the designated central space. A pull box serves as a quick access point for cable pulling, splicing, and management.
• Optical Network Terminal (ONT) converts fibre optic signals into Ethernet signals. This conversion allows the high-speed data transmitted over fibre optic cables to be used by standard Ethernet networking equipment in homes and businesses. Optical Network Terminal (ONT) is mounted to the outside wall of a private house and to each apartment in an apartment building (often in a closet, utility room, or another convenient location).
• The ONT will be connected to your router via an Ethernet cable. This connection allows the distribution of the internet signal within your apartment. The router will provide Wi-Fi coverage and wired connections to various devices in the apartment.

Is fibre-optic cable more expensive than a coaxial cable to install?

Yes, fiber optic cable installation is generally more expensive than coaxial cable installation due to the cost of materials and installation complexity. However, fiber optic networks are worth the upfront cost because of higher speeds and greater bandwidth. In many areas, having fiber optic networks installed in your house actually improves the upfront cost of your house.

However, Internet Service Providers (ISPs) and telecommunications companies sometimes offer fibre optic installation at no upfront cost to the customer, but this typically depends on various factors such as the customer's location, the specific service plan, and promotional offers. In this case, you will pay only for activation, service, and basic equipment.