FTTx Basics

FTTx Basics is a two-part course called FTTx Elements and Installation and Troubleshooting.

The demand for faster data speeds continues to escalate at a rapid pace. Fiber-to-the-“x” or fiber-to-the-node, curb, business, home, premises, etc., is one way to satisfy this demand. Many broadband companies are rapidly deploying FTTx, particularly FTTH (fiber-to-the-home), which is increasing in part due to competitive pressures. A company with technicians who are well trained in FTTx has the leverage it needs to build great networks and keep up with the growing demand for fast fiber. The FTTx Basics course teaches fiber-optic network architectures and provides in-depth, step-by-step instructions for connecting a customer with a fiber-optic drop and how to recognize and remedy common fiber optic issues.

Completion Time:

The estimated completion time for this course is four hours. The maximum allotted time is four months from enrollment.

Benefits:

• understand the process for fusion splicing fiber-optic cable
• be able to connect fiber-optic cable at the premises effectively
• become knowledgeable of passive optical networks (PON) architecture and equipment
• understand the radio frequency over glass (RFoG) standard
• be able to complete fiber-to-the-home installations
• receive an industry-recognized NCTI certificate of graduation

Upon completing this course, students will be able to:

1. describe the different “fiber-to-the-x” topologies used in broadband cable networks
2. describe a passive optical network
3. identify the different categories of fiber-optic cable that are used in a passive optical network
4. recognize the different topologies used in passive optical networks
5. explain how the radio frequency over glass (RFoG) standard operates with any passive optical network
6. identify the elements of a passive optical network
7. recognize the advantages and disadvantages of CWDM and DWDM used in today’s FTTx networks
8. describe different applications for optical splitters
9. identify multiple fiber strands after a splitter on an OTDR trace
10. identify various connectors used with fiber-optic drops
11. sequence the steps to prepare drop fiber for splicing
12. describe pigtails used for optical fiber terminations
13. describe the procedure for fusion splicing a drop fiber to a pigtail
14. identify the typical sources of failure in the outside plant
15. specify which fiber-optic test sets are used to troubleshoot common troubles
16. identify recommended fiber-optic restoration activities

Outline:

FTTx Elements

Introducing FTTx network topologies, passive optical network topologies, passive optical network (PON) elements, wavelength division multiplexing in a PON environment

FTTx Installation and Troubleshooting

Introducing home fiber installation and troubleshooting FTTx installations