Comments on the term FTTH

Surely on many occasions in the field of telecommunications you have heard the
the term 'Fiber to the home'. Which comes from 'Fiber To The X'; where the X is
related to the final place where the fiber optic reaches:

B: "Basement", up to the Building.

C: 'Cabinet', up to the Building's Cabin.

H: "Home", until the Home.

Residential Interconnection Box, external plant.

Some other concepts that we must know are:

OLT: Optical Line Terminal. Connects the Access Network with the Transport Network. Establishes
virtual circuits between the user and the provider to send the requested content.
UN: Optical Networks Unit, performs the interconnection and format conversion with the
end user.
ODN: Optical Distribution Network, is responsible for connecting the OLTs with the ONUs.
They are generally SM links.

This set forms a network called PON (Passive Optical Network), which can
cover areas up to about 20 km without amplification.

Rosette by FTTH

1
The technological applications with HD CATV, VOIP, High-Speed Internet, etc., that
we will use in our homes or offices have a lot to do with FTTH, and it is starting
in many developing countries.

Comments on the terms SUperPON, GPON, FTTN, FFTH.

Some time ago I wrote an article related to the termsFTTHFiber to the Home
(Fiber To The Home). Continuing with this line, we are going to tell you something more.

We already know the termPON, then we have the SUPERPON that is now used
Amplifiers to achieve a greater distance, around 100 Km. Of these, 90 Km in
Main link and then 10 km for distribution to the different points.

Diagram of a SUperPON

Another term is GPON, where the 'G' indicates that they are Gigabit networks. It supports Voice and Data.
With an estimated coverage range of 20 km.

We now have FTTN, where the 'N' refers to the Node. Therefore, normally the
fiber optic is still outside of the end customer's facilities, more than 300 are estimated
meters of separation.

A new and little-known term is FFTH, Fiber From The Home.

here the Owner has fiber optic and wants to leave his residence to connect to others
points.

A piece of information you should know is...

One point to note is that the term FTTA apparently can have two meanings.
different. We have Fiber To The Apartment (Fiber To The Apartment) and Fiber To the
Antenna (Fiber To The Antenna)

Work Plan for FTTH.

2
 In previous articles, I gave you several recommendations for the installation of a project.
GPONyFTTH, before continuing I recommend reading: FTTH Works at Heights.
(Part I)

Before starting the installation, we must assess the needs and risks involved.
environment where we will develop it, especially in outdoor areas, to minimize
the risks, avoid accidents, have no delays and do it in the most efficient time possible,
etc. For this, it is necessary to prepare a Work Plan, for example in a similar format to the
next:

Format of Work Plan in FTTH

Location: The exact site of the installation, such as: Area, sector, Avenue, street, etc.
Date and Time: to record the moment in which I carried it out on the site.
Client: Company for which the project is being carried out.
In charge: Person responsible for the project on behalf of the Client, this is of great help in
In case of any direct inquiries, doubts, recommendations, or suggestions.
Phase: Constructive, Evaluative, Repair, Test, Operation or others.
Job Description: Connection, Mergers, Measurements, etc.

We will evaluate our environment and you can proceed with some criteria, such as:

The specific location of the installation: Indoor or outdoor, if it is outdoors (exposed to the elements), or underground.
ceiling. In which case, you must keep in mind the atmospheric conditions, including: rain
then to prevent whether it is necessary to improvise a plastic roof or a tent, for
protect Personnel, Equipment, and Tools). In case of installations at Height and
It is not possible to work underground during rains (due to electrical risks or flooding).
But on the contrary, it is the Sun, so it must have enough hydration (Water)
for the staff and not to overexpose them, because it can cause heat stroke. Some
The data is that in the morning (when the sun is less intense) to advance the work
most likely, then at noon (when the sun is most intense) the staff must
take advantage of having your meal in a covered and cooler place. In addition, make
a short break of a few minutes in the afternoon, to drink enough water.
The space around the installation should preferably be free and clean, that is, without
obstacles, garbage, vegetation, near holes or sharp objects that protrude.
Quick access to exits. Observe the size of the space, for example, it is facilities.
Subterranean areas can be very restricted or narrow.

Other considerations are:

Another thing to consider is the insects that can appear at the moment they
develops the conditioning of the place. (Ants, Bees, etc.), for this reason, always
a first aid kit must be included (check the reading ofFTTH work in
Heights. Part IV).

3
Another condition of vital importance is to know about the security in the area where
you will be exposed if it contains a high crime rate or violence. If so, it is advisable
contact the Local Police or a Private Security Company beforehand, so that they provide
protection of personnel and safeguarding of equipment.

Based on all the previous considerations, all the Equipment can be listed.
personal protective equipment (PPE) that will be needed:

List of Personal Protective Equipment

Comments on Plans
There is a topic that I had not written anything about, and it refers to the Plans for
the facilities.

Usually when we are going to carry out installations in general for a fiber optic network,
we need the plans. Especially for installations in the external plant, we need the
exact location of the Fiber Cable route and the position of each device, therefore
what will be required to know the streets (Names of avenues, insertions), main places
as a reference (Buildings, fields, parks, houses, etc.) for the deployment of the project.
You can see an example of a digital plan below:

Example of a Map for the Installation of a GPON Network

They can detail from right to left, the orange line represents the Cable of
Main Distribution of 144 Aerial Outdoor Threads, which rises through the Main Avenue,
Then at the intersection with the other street, a is [Link](Yellow Color Frame).
After turning left at the next street, you can see the colored line.
purple representing the Outdoor 48 Core Fiber Optic Access, this connects to
the end to a FAT (Small Purple Frame).

Another way to have the plans is in physical form (on paper), for which it is recommended to send it
to print at the correct scale. Like in the following example:

4
 GPON Diagram Plan for outdoor plant, (in Physical)

They must take some additional care not to damage the physical plane, due to the
external plant conditions that it may be exposed to, such as: wind, dust, rain, etc.

Another fact to know is:

On the other hand, the programs that handle this type of design file (2D, 3D),
require many computing resources for visualization and manipulation of these
Plans, for which it is recommended to have a robust laptop with sufficient memory.
work.

A very helpful tool for exact site locations with the plans of
installation is a GPS.

I recommend reading Example of an OTDR Graph in GPON.

Symbolism in FTTH

First, I recommend reading the following article: FTTH.

In a previous article, I wrote to you about the types ofPlans, used in the installation of a
RedGPON, but in this we will emphasize knowing and interpreting the symbols and legends
used in them to carry out the disconnection from the project.

Below, you can see an example of different symbols used for the
representation of the elements to be installed (although this should not be the only nomenclature
existing):

5
 Example of FTTH Symbolism

Meanings of each of them:

OLT: Optic Line Terminal

Derivations 2 or 3 ways: Indicates that the cable will branch off into 2 or 3 paths. It is common.
use interconnections between wires of different cables throughmergersinside a
Splice Enclosures (SC) or Splice Boxes.

FDT: Fiber Distribution Terminal.

FAT: Fiber Access Terminal.

This number indicates the distance in meters of the cable section.

System: Indicate the type of installation of the plan, in this case it is FTTH.

It is essential to visualize and study the project plans carefully before the
installation, so you can get to know the symbolism and familiarize yourself with the area. Also check
the explanatory legend that these plans have and consult any doubts with the client.

It is also recommended to conduct a visual inspection of the land before purchasing it on-site.
with the plans, to perceive any discrepancies.

Legend of Connection Diagram for FTTH

In the previous image, you can detail different symbols that are used in the design of
connection diagrams:
6
OLT: Optical Line Terminal

FDT: Fiber Distribution Terminal.

SC: (Splice Enclosure) Allows interconnection of different cables through splices.

from the threads, for distribution to different areas of the zone.

FAT: Fiber Access Terminal.

Violet Point (Branch): this indicates the derivation or branching of the main cable with another one.
cable that will be interconnected within the FAT.

Red line: Indicates the path of a 144 fiber optic cable.

Purple line: Indicates the path of a 48-fiber optical cable.

Another fact to know is:

On the other hand, as I mentioned at another time, you can print the Plans on paper (to
scale) or you can view them on the site with a PC through informative programs of
visualization (2D or 3D). If you do not have proprietary software (which requires
license and some have high costs), there are resources on the Internet,
Free libraries that could help us with the visualization of our plans.

Another very practical alternative is to use a smartphone for quick reading of the
Plans with the field with the help of our Mobile, (to navigate digitally within the
symbolism and route where we are not found located on the map). Currently, there are several
Free applications.

I recommend reading: Comments on Plans.

Connection Diagram in FTTH

First, I recommend reading the following article: FTTH.

This topic is of great importance, regarding how the connections of a network should be made.
GPONin the field, for which you need to know about reading and interpretation of the
connection diagrams of the fiber threads in the link path during the disconnection
of the project.

In case you are not familiar with Fiber to the Home Symbolism, we
memory:

7
 Legend of Connection Diagram for FTTH

Next, they will detail a general diagram that contains all the connections of
a FTTH network

Example of Connection Diagram of a GPON/FTTH Network

It is observed that the diagram starts at the OLT1 (Optical Line Terminal), and the One
(1) means the existing quantity. It is then connected through a red line.
to say, a cable with 144 strands with an initial span distance of 1 km. It connects to the first
Splice Enclosure (SC1), where we then have the second section of 750 m of cable that
it reaches up to the SC2. Next, after another 500 m, we arrive atlFDT. Now three come out
lines of violet color that indicate 48-wire cables (A, B, C). Describing cable A,
contains 6FAT(P1 to P6), for example P1, is fed with the fibers (F) from optical fiber 1 and 2
(where generally, the first is used as the main interconnection port and the second
it is a backup thread. Consecutively we have the P2, which interconnects with threads 3
and 4, but at the top of the FAT Symbol look for a purple dot (Branch),
It means that this main cable will be branched off to P3 and P4.

Another fact to know is:

The following FATs are defined with the same nomenclature, I invite you to decipher them. And yes
Any of our readers who has a question about the diagram can add it in a comment.
and I will respond to them!

8
Additionally, an additional piece of information is that it is recommended to print these diagrams.
of connections and deliver them to each of the installers who are working within
this network, so it can have general support for the scheme. And also the information
specific to the device they are installing, such as SC, FDT, or FAT.

I recommend reading: Symbolism in FTTH.

Internal Connection Diagrams in FTTH

First, I recommend reading the following article: FTTH.

It is important to know about the topic ofConnection Diagrams in [Link] addition, from
how to make the connections of a NetworkGPONin the field, for which
you need to know about reading and interpreting wiring diagrams
of fiber in the link's journey during the project disconnection. There are diagrams
general that contains all the interconnections of the threads (which I have commented on
previously), however, there are also other nomenclatures to represent how
you must connect each device with a specific internal diagram. In the following image
can you elaborate on it?

Internal Connection Diagram of a FAT

In the previous table, the scheme for the first FAT of the distribution is shown from the
FDT. Identified as: OLT1/D1a/P1, where: OLT1 (Optical Line Terminal)
number 1, FDT number 1, of Cable A(a), and P indicates the FAT. Then, we have 48 ADSS
Cable IN, which tells us that it is a 48 wire cable, typeADSS, Input Cable to
Device.

We detail that the Input Cable (IN) will connect the first 12 wires (Blue Buffer).
Starting according to its color code with thread 1 (Blue) will merge into a Derivator
1×8(8-way splitter ), Afterward, thread 2 (Orange) will remain in this FAT as Backup.
(Spare). Then the thread 3 continues its route (Thru) to the following devices; likewise
so on from 4 to 12.

Now we have the Output Cable (OUT), wires 1 and 2 are open with no connection (Open),
but the threads 3 and 4 (Thru) continue to the FAT2 (OLT1/D1a/P2). And so on
with threads 5 to 12.

9
Internal diagram of an FDT:

Internal Connection Diagram of an FDT.

Next, the explanation you need to know about this second diagram:

In this table, we have the Splicing Matrix of FDT1 (D1). This Cable of
Input (IN) consists of 144 threads, and thread 1 (Blue) will merge into a 1×4 Derivator.(Splitter 4-
way) and so on with threads 2 and 3 (To obtain 12 feeding threads for
all FAT).

We have Cable A (a) with 48 Output (OUT) wires from the FDT, in this the fiber thread 1
(Blue) connects (Spliced) with elFAT1 (OLT1/D1a/P2) and thread 2 of Backup (Space).
repeat the same successively up to FAT10 (P10).

On the other hand, the Supervisor of the Work must print all the diagrams.
of connections and deliver it to each Installer the specific diagram that is going to be developed
within this Network (SC, FDT or FAT), but the Supervisor must have the idea of the scheme
general.

I also recommend reading: Symbolism in FTTH.

Derivations (Splitter)

In this article, we will discuss a device widely used in fiber optic networks.
how to implement PON in FTTx, as are the Derivations or Splitters.
10
They are responsible for dividing the optical power from a common port to two or more ports.

A common example of a splitter model used is the 1×4 in this case 25|25|25|25.
which means it has one input and four outputs and 25% of the radius. They can observe it.
next:

Splitter 1×4 (One input on the left side and 4 output ports on the right side)

There are different models such as: 1×2, 1×4, 1×8, 1×16, 1×32, etc.

It is a passive element, so it does not require any integrated electronics or power supply.
energy for its operation.

Another interesting technical fact to know is:

The light attenuation through the splitter is symmetrical and is also identical in both.
Directions. An estimated attenuation that this input signal may have is 3 dB.
approximately for every 1:2 derivations. Another example would be a 1:2 Splitter of 50|50,
it would have 3.2 dB on each output port.

Materials Inventory in FTTH

In this article, I will share some recommendations and points that should be addressed.
regarding the availability of materials before, during, and after the installation of a
Project ofGPONyFiber to the Home. But first I recommend reading: Work Plan for
FTTH.

It's easy to think that the quantity and arrangement of materials, such as: Fiber optic cables,
Reels, Devices, Consumables (Tie-wrap, Sleeve) that are going to be installed do not have great
importance, but it does have one and plays a crucial role in the good development of
installation times.

First, before starting the project, having already defined the type of tools and
Measurement Equipment, Work Brigades, Installation Vehicles. Therefore, we must
prepare and have available all the materials and accessories that we are going to start with
install. Then, make a detailed list of each and every material that will be used
daily the installers in the field and an estimate to complete the project, which
If desired, 70% can be acquired to start and the rest when it is already in place.
developing the same or is about to be required. It is not advisable to start,
oversizing the project, as this involves a considerable economic cost and
much less if there is too much material left over after the installation.

11
 Example of Inventory of an FTTH project

Another case is if the client is the one who will supply the materials.
make a comprehensive inventory of each one upon receiving it and begin handing them over to the
installers agree on what they need and the rest create a stock of
Storage. It is relevant to remember that unused or damaged materials in the
installation must be returned to the customer upon completion, as proof that it was used or as
Missing material.

The unavailability of any component, no matter how small it is, can represent
a setback in the field or the reason to return to the same place again. Let's just imagine
We want to carry out an installation with many fusions in a remote location outside of the
city and when we are in the process of completion, we need to finish the amount of Tie-wrap
the fixing of the cables, so this may delay the process and we would have to go to the
closest hardware store to buy some of these items. But even more,
Suppose that before finishing the mergers we run out of shrink films.
(Sleeve), What to do?, 'this is something that is not sold in the Corner Store'
We should suspend work for that day to search for this consumable.
office.

Another piece of information to know is:

A typical case is the wooden reels where the fiber optic cables come in.
optics, these contain serials that serve to demonstrate in which part of the project it is
the placement of this was carried out. Therefore, it is recommended not to discard it until it is finished.
same. And ask the client about their final destination.

Example of Fiber Optic Cable Coil Serial

I recommend reading:

12
 Personal Protective Equipment(EPP).
Safety Equipment for Installers.

Working Method in FTTH

In many previous articles, I have commented on different tools, equipment,

vehicles, among others, that are developed around a fiber optic project in the
installations, especially of FTTH. I recommend reviewing the reading of:I work in
Height (Part I).

One point to consider in this type of external plant work is the places.
they are carried out especially at the beginning of the deployment in a city or countries, for the
which changes the location of the installation site every so often, for which the
Linians, Fusers, Technicians and Engineers must be moving from one place to another
within the same city every week, so they usually work in one area
reduced (like a small urbanization or population) and then the following week
they will be in the next one.

Usually, in nearby places, deployment of networks will then begin.

of fiber optic cable, around the city or in provinces, which will result in
greater number of travel hours per day in transfers using vehicles that are used in the
field operations. These vehicles must be prepared according to the
characteristics of the Land and contain all the necessary Tools and Equipment
(you can read some other articles that I have developed, such as:Vehicles for Brigades
of FTTH (Part I).

You can observe from the work vehicles:

Rustic Vehicle for FTTH installations

When daily commuting distances increase significantly, then it is more

the convenience of using hostels and temporary residences in places of interest, due to
a lot of time and energy is lost during travel, which affects the amount of
effective hours in the facilities. Therefore, it is more convenient to carry out the deployment
"In situ", working only on weekdays (perhaps with an additional hour per working day),
but with weekends off so that most of the staff can return
temporarily to their places of origin.

Then, returning the following week to complete all the proposed stages. When
there are very long distances between cities or between different countries, it is done in a way
similar to what was proposed earlier but the transfers will be made by plane
directly. But the most convenient thing is to plan each stage of the project at least
one month and a maximum of 3 months. Workdays can be from Monday to Saturday
to make the most of time and Sunday free for staff rest.
At the end of this stage, the returns are planned.

13
I also recommend reading: Work Brigades in FTTH (Part I).

Some Services in FTTH

First, I recommend reading the following article: FTTH.

Currently, the use of fiber optic is promoted as the best means of connection and the
the reasons are:

Large Capacity: because increasingly companies and users need

greater bandwidth. And fiber is the only medium that can provide a supply
stable and continuously growing according to demand.
High Reliability: The fiber optic cable is made of glass, which is why it is not visible.
affected by weather conditions, for example with rain or lightning (such as
other means).
Economic: to transfer large amounts of data, methods are required
effective, to avoid delays in transmission and not waste time.
Proven future: For future updates, they just need to change the equipment.
involved electronics, it will not be necessary to change the fiber optic link.

FTTH plans for Triple Play.

In summary, a FTTH link from the Service Provider (ISP) to the Customer.
(Subscriber), it is basically a NetworkGPON, the diagram consists in this sense from
an Optical Line Terminal (OLT), then it is transported through the fiber and reaches theFDT,
follow another fiber until connecting with elFAT. And finally, the connecting section from elFAT
until theONTwithin the end user residence, to offer them one of the Systems
more common is Triple Play, which is a combination of:

14
 Data (Internet Access).
Video (CATVenHD).
Residential Telephony (VoIP).

ONU for Residential Connection in FTTH

These three services are provided to the user through a single fiber thread (SM 9/125 with
a connectorSC/APC). The signals are Bidirectional and in threeWavelengths
different ones, one for each service. Some cover distances of up to 20 km. The
providers in some countries offer Internet download plans for
Fiber of:

Residential 50 MB.
Intermediates of 100 MB.
Corporate 200 MB.

Including packages such as:

TV (173 Channels).
Unlimited internet.
Unlimited calls to the same provider and 500 minutes to others.
Free modem(UN).
80 $/monthly.

Among other examples, in other countries we have:

TV (70 Channels).
Unlimited Internet.
Unlimited national calls.
Amount: 30 Euros/monthly.

I also recommend reading: FTTx Indoor Terminal Box.

FTTH providers

First, I recommend reading the following article: FTTH.

Currently, the use of fiber optics is promoted as the best means of connection (And
It's true!), then some Internet Service Providers (ISPs) or operators of
Cableofertan promotions such as the following:

15
 Stable and fast connection.
Constant speed and unlimited discharge.
Connection of multiple devices.

With more common systems that is Triple Play, which is a combination of:

Data (Internet Access).

Video (CATVenHD).
Residential Telephony (VoIP).

Now let's review the internet speeds they offer:

FTTH plans

Providers in some Caribbean countries offer Internet plans via Fiber

downstream and upstream following:

Plan Nº1: Velocidad de Bajada2 Mbpsy Velocidad de Subida768 Kbps.

Plan Nº2: Velocidad de Bajada3 Mbpsy Velocidad de Subida:1 Mbps.
Plan Nº3: Velocidad de Bajada5 Mbpsy Velocidad de Subida:1 Mbps.
Plan Nº4: Velocidad de Bajada10 Mbpsy Velocidad de Subida:1 Mbps.
Plan Nº5: Velocidad de Bajada20 Mbpsy Velocidad de Subida:1 Mbps.
Plan Nº6: Velocidad de Bajada40 Mbpsy Velocidad de Subida:5 Mbps.
Plan Nº7: Velocidad de Bajada100 Mbpsy Velocidad de Subida:10 Mbps.

As you can see, all these GPON plans are Asymmetric. That is to say, they are not the same.
download speed is higher than upload speed (these are more popular and economical).
However, there are other cases where you might want a slightly more reliable connection because
If you need to upload a lot of information to the Cloud, the Symmetric Plan is more convenient.

Including packages such as:

TV (250 Channels).
Unlimited internet.
500 minutes of national phone calls and 200 minutes of international calls per month.
UN, similar to the following:

16
 ONU for FTTH

And you will surely notice in your home that they provide the service through a single thread.
of fiberSM 9/125(With YellowJacket) with a connectorSC/APC(Green). As in the
next photo:

Connection cable to the UN

I also recommend reading: Model United Nations.

17