Course Content

Overview of FTTH technology 

Benefits and applications of FTTH 

FTTH market trends and developments 

Key components of FTTH networks 

Types of FTTH architectures (PON, GPON, EPON) 

Point-to-Point vs. Point-to-Multipoint systems 

Network design considerations 

Splitter configurations and distribution methods 

Optical fiber theory and principles 

Types of optical fibers used in FTTH (single-mode fibers) 

Fiber optic cable construction for FTTH 

Connectors and terminations in FTTH networks 

Safety protocols and best practices for FTTH installations 

Personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements 

Handling and disposal of fiber optic materials 

Site surveys and requirements analysis 

Network topology planning 

Fiber route planning and layout 

Bill of materials (BOM) preparation 

Fiber cable installation methods (aerial, underground, indoor) 

Splicing and connectorization techniques 

Installing optical network terminals (ONTs) 

Drop cable installations 

Overview of installation tools and equipment 

Fusion splicers, mechanical splicers 

Optical time-domain reflectometer (OTDR) 

Optical loss test set (OLTS) 

Visual fault locators (VFL) 

Importance of testing in FTTH installations 

Testing procedures and standards (TIA/EIA, ISO/IEC) 

OTDR testing for FTTH 

Optical loss testing and power meter usage 

Identifying and resolving common FTTH issues 

Importance of accurate documentation 

Creating and maintaining as-built documentation 

Recording test results and maintaining logs 

Using network management software for FTTH 

Project planning and scheduling 

Resource allocation and management 

Risk management and mitigation 

Quality assurance and control 

Overview of relevant standards (ITU-T, TIA/EIA) 

Compliance with local and national regulations 

Ensuring adherence to industry best practices 

Real-world installation scenarios 

Hands-on practice with splicing and testing equipment 

Instructor-led demonstrations and guided practice 

Troubleshooting exercises 

Review of key concepts and techniques 

Sample questions and practice exams 

Tips for successfully passing the CFOS/H certification exam 

Written exam covering theoretical knowledge 

Practical exam demonstrating FTTH installation skills 

Objective: Familiarize with the components used in FTTH networks. 

Steps: 

Component Identification: Identify various FTTH components such as fiber optic cables, optical splitters, Optical Network Terminals (ONTs), and Optical Line Terminals (OLTs). 

Component Specifications: Review and understand the specifications and standards of each component. 

Hands-On Inspection: Physically inspect and handle different FTTH components to understand their construction and function. 

Objective: Learn the fundamentals of designing an FTTH network. 

Steps: 

Topology Selection: Explore different network topologies (star, bus, and ring) and their applications in FTTH. 

Design Tools: Introduction to design software tools used in FTTH network planning. 

Basic Layout: Create a basic FTTH network layout diagram using design software. 

Objective: Calculate the link budget for an FTTH link. 

Steps: 

Power Budget Calculation: Calculate the total power budget using source power, receiver sensitivity, and system margin. 

Loss Budget Calculation: Determine the total loss budget by adding up the losses from connectors, splices, splitters, and cable attenuation. 

Link Budget Worksheet: Fill out a link budget worksheet for a sample FTTH link. 

Objective: Plan the route for fiber optic cables in an FTTH installation. 

Steps: 

Survey Analysis: Analyze a site survey to determine the best cable route. 

Route Selection: Choose appropriate pathways for the cable installation, considering environmental factors and existing infrastructure. 

Route Diagram: Create a detailed cable route diagram, indicating all major landmarks and obstacles. 

Objective: Practice the installation of FTTH drop cables. 

Steps: 

Cable Preparation: Prepare drop cables by stripping and cleaning them. 

Cable Routing: Route drop cables from the curb to the premises, maintaining minimum bend radius. 

Secure Cables: Secure and protect drop cables using appropriate hardware. 

Connectorization: Install connectors on the drop cables. 

Objective: Install and configure Optical Network Terminals (ONTs) at customer premises. 

Steps: 

ONT Installation: Mount ONTs at the designated locations. 

Power Supply: Connect the ONT to the power supply. 

Configuration: Configure the ONT settings according to the service provider’s guidelines. 

Testing: Verify the ONT functionality and connectivity. 

Objective: Perform splicing and splitting tasks in an FTTH network. 

Steps: 

Fusion Splicing: Practice fusion splicing techniques for joining fibers. 

Mechanical Splicing: Use mechanical splicing methods for quick repairs. 

Splitter Installation: Install optical splitters in the network and connect fibers to the appropriate ports. 

Splice Enclosure: Organize and secure splices within a splice enclosure. 

Objective: Use an Optical Time Domain Reflectometer (OTDR) to test and analyze FTTH networks. 

Steps: 

Set Up OTDR: Configure the OTDR for testing FTTH networks. 

Perform Test: Conduct OTDR tests to measure insertion loss and locate faults. 

Analyze Results: Interpret OTDR traces to verify network quality and identify any issues. 

Objective: Measure insertion and return loss in FTTH networks. 

Steps: 

Set Up Equipment: Use a light source and power meter for insertion loss testing. 

Perform Test: Measure insertion loss across connectors, splices, and splitters. 

Return Loss Measurement: Use a return loss meter to assess reflections in the network. 

Objective: Create and maintain comprehensive documentation for FTTH installations. 

Steps: 

Installation Records: Document the installation process, including cable routes, splices, and connections. 

As-Built Documentation: Prepare as-built documentation that accurately reflects the installed network. 

Reporting: Generate reports summarizing test results, link budget calculations, and network performance. 

Objective: Apply FTTH skills in real-world deployment scenarios. 

Projects: 

Residential Deployment: Plan and implement FTTH in a residential area. 

Multi-Dwelling Unit (MDU) Deployment: Design and deploy FTTH in a multi-dwelling unit such as an apartment complex.