What You Need To Know About Fiber Optic Installation

By Catherine Taylor


We all know that the wires that run through our buildings, underground and even underwater, make communication possible. In most cases, you will not think of these when you are calling someone to handle fiber optic installation. However, the cables put in to connect your TV and your phone, are almost similar. When you are getting something like this done for you, you should have previously done your homework to know what to expect.

First, you have to realize that these cables can be installed on the outside or inside of the building, depending on their use. This seemingly simple factor will determine who you hire, how much money you spend and also the design of those materials to be used. The general assumption is that all fiber optic networks are the same, but you will find that you need someone to design one for your house specifically.

Qualified personnel should handle the design and installation phases. Therefore, you must ensure that the contractor you get has adequate experience, and is willing to give you the contracts of their references. Additionally, their expertise should be in line with your needs. This expert should also be someone you feel at ease with because they will be around for all six phases involved in setting up.

You will find that even if you go to the site every day while they are doing the installation, you will need someone to explain to you what is happening. Therefore, you also have to evaluate their communication skills. A good communicator will not have a difficult time, relaying information in a way that you can understand.

Proper installation of a fiber optic network will require different components. To ensure safety and efficiency, the Fiber Optic Association has a list of the approved materials depending on their use and the terrain. The contractor you get should know this, and after looking at the design given and your house, they can help you choose the best materials. If you work with someone who suggests replacing the approved items with substandard, ones to save money or time, you run the risk of getting into trouble with the law.

For this kind of work, especially if it is being done outside, you will need to get a couple of permits. This should be done before any work commences, to avoid getting in trouble with the law. To speed up the process, you can start applying for these licenses immediately after the designs have been drawn up. If you hire the right contractor, they can handle this for you, leaving you to worry about other things.

This installation process is similar to wiring, but it is also more complex. Therefore it goes without saying that it will cost you more money. Keep in mind, however, that you will pay less for indoor cabling compared to outdoor installations. To avoid getting overcharged talk to different companies and get written estimates from them. You can then compare these to get the market average, and also to prepare yourself financially.

Before you can start utilizing your network, it should be tested for efficiency, and your contractor will also be responsible for this. Therefore, considering how much control they will have over the project, you have to ensure that you have a legal agreement in place before any work can begin.




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