Benefits of Fiber and Importance of Network Provisioning Tools on FTTX Networks
Fiber to the x which can also be referred to as fiber in the loop. It is a term used for a broadband network architecture that uses an optical fiber that will provide some parts or all of a local loop utilized in last mile telecommunications. FTTX services need network provisioning tools to ensure that their networks will function smoothly and their workflows are followed without error.
Copper telephone networks that were built during the 20th century are getting replaced by fiber. The reason for the replacement is because fiber optic cables carry more data compared to what copper cables can handle, especially when the data is carried over long distances.
FTTX is the generalization used for various configurations in fiber deployment. It is often categorized into two groups. The first group is FTTB/FTTH/FTTP. It is the fiber that is laid all through the building, home, or premises. The second category is FTTC/N. It is the fiber that is laid on the cabinet or node, along with copper wires that complete the connection. In order for all these functionalities to function with little to no interruptions automated network provisioning tools.
Residential areas have already been served with a balanced pair distribution of a plant cell that is a trade between capacity and cost. There will be a more expensive construction and higher channel capacity when the fiber head is closer. In locations where metallic facilities do not serve, only a little cost is saved as the fiber is not running to the home.
Fiber to the x is an important method that is used for next-generation access or NGA. The next generation of access describes an important upgrade to the available broadband. The factor is done by changing the quality and speed of service. This is what is typically determined on a download speed of 24 Mbps, along with fast upload speed.
Benefits of Fiber
Copper cables that were used in traditional telephone lines or an ADSL cannot carry a high volume of data over long distances at high speeds. Fiber optic cables function well over copper cables. An example of this scenario is with the form of a Gigabit Ethernet with 1Gbit/s It runs over economical 5e, augmented category 6, or category 6 with an unprotected twisted pair of copper cables that only runs on 100m or 330 ft.
Nonetheless, a 1 Gbit/s Ethernet on fiber can easily reach longer distances. This is why the FTTP was selected by most major communications providers across the world. It used to carry data on 1 Gbit/s symmetrical connections which is directly going to consumer homes. FTTP configurations that directly carries the fiber into premises are able to have the fastest speeds since the other segments can utilize a coaxial cable or a standard Ethernet.
Fiber is seen as a future-proof tool due to the data rate of its connection is limited by the terminal equipment. Meanwhile, the fiber permits substantial improvements on equipment upgrades before the fiber itself needed any upgrades. The type of length employed fibers such as single-mode or multi-mode is important on future connections with over 1 Gbit/s.
The rising popularity of high-definition and on-demand video streaming devices or apps such as Netflix, Roku, and YouTube has led to an increasing need for a reliable bandwidth as more people begin to utilize these services.
Importance of Network Provisioning Tools on FTTX Networks
More FTTX deployments are going underway as there are more networks built by municipalities and certain existing utilities. The existing and some legacy billing applications are not well-equipped in handling unique demands that are associated when it comes to provisioning and fiber services. This will produce inaccuracies to the systems caused by manual provisioning and human error. It can also slow down the activation process. Having reliable network provisioning tools and provisioning management to enable efficiency and accuracy in managing the daily operations of various FTTX networks. It also decreases errors which also reduces the customer churn rate as customers are receiving professional and secured services.
Network provisioning tools and provisioning management are provided by companies like ETI where they offer service management platforms to FTTX networks. Aside from network provisioning, other services that may be included are device inventory, prospect tracking to increase subscribers, work orders, and service address management. These tools will allow the proper maintenance of passive optical networks.
