FTTx Basics

and
Network Design
TRAINING

FTTx Basics and Network

Design
 Network description

 Types of Network(Access NW/ Core NW)

 Type of Sites(Brownfield/Green field/Overbuild)

 Requirements for Deployment of FTTX architecture.

 FTTX Network architecture(FTTP/B/C/N)

 FTTP Topologies and Technology(P2P/P2MP) CONTENTS

 Network Layer.

 Network Planning and Design

 Equipment’s (Different types of optical fibers and uses,

splitters and ducts) and Techniques

 Generating Build plan

 Documentation

 Testing and Monitoring(OTDR)

 Software requirement
FTTX Network Architecture
FTTX
FTTP:-
 Fibre to the home (FTTH) network constitutes a FTTP FTTN FTTC FTTB
fibre-based access network, connecting a large
number of end-users to a central point known as
an access node or point of presence (POP).
 Each access node contains the necessary
electronic transmission (active) equipment to
provide the applications and services, using
optical fibre to the subscriber

FTTB:-
 Fibre to the Basement(FTTB) in Which Dedicated
Fibre is connected to Optical Terminal Box located
at Basement of Building.

 Connection between Subscriber and building

switch is copper and Not fibre.
FTTC:-

 FTTC brings fiber to the neighborhood and installs a local

switch usually in or near a current pedestal.

 Fiber replaces the copper from the pedestal to the CO, using
only the short copper run from the pedestal to the customer
premises to make the final connection.

 FTTC used DSL over these short lengths of copper allows

higher bandwidth than a direct CO connection, allowing more
flexibility in services offered.

FTTN:-

 Fiber to The Node helps to Provide Broadband Connection

and other data services through Common Network Box called
a Node.

 Last Mile connectivity can be achieved with Copper.

Types Of Networks

Core Access
Network
N/W N/W

Core Network:-

 The core network (or backbone) is the part of a

network that connects the different parts of the
access network. The core network also provides
the gateway to other networks.

Access Network:-

 The access network is the network or the part of a

telecommunications network that gives the user access to
the telecommunications service.
 Core Network
 In general, this Core Network signifies the highly functional communication facilities that
interconnect primary nodes.

 The core network delivers routes to exchange information among various sub-networks. When it
comes to enterprise networks that serve a single organization, the term backbone is often used
instead of core network, whereas when used with service providers the term core network is
prominent. This term is also known as network core or backbone network.

 The facilities and devices used for the core or backbone networks are usually routers and switches,
with switches being used more often.

Technologies Used:-

 The technologies used for the core facilities are mainly network and data link layer technologies,
including asynchronous transfer mode (ATM), IP, synchronous optical networking (SONET) and
dense wavelength division multiplexing (DWDM). For backbone networks used for enterprises, a
10 Gb Ethernet or gigabit Ethernet technology is also used in many instances.
 Features of Core N/W
Features of Core
N/w

Service
Aggregation Authentication Switching Charging Gateway
Invocation

 Aggregation:- The top degree of aggregation can be seen in a service provider network. Next in the hierarchy within the core nodes is the distribution
networks, followed by the edge networks.

 Authentication:-Determines whether the user demanding a service from a telecom network is permitted to complete the task within the network.

 Call Control or Switching: Determines the future span of a call depending on the processing of call signaling.

 Charging: Deals with the processing and collation of charging the data created by multiple network nodes.

 Service Invocation: A core network executes the service invocation task for its customers. Service invocation may occur in line with some precise activity
(such as call forwarding) by the users or unconditionally (such as for call waiting).

 Gateways: Should be used in core network for accessing other networks. The functionality of gateways depends on the kind of network to which it is
connected.
Access N/W
An Access Network is type Network which Physically Connects an end system to the immediate router on a path.

Examples:-ISP, Home Networks ,ADSL, Mobile Network

Type Of Access
N/W

Ethernet DSL FTTH WLAN 3G LTE

Ethernet:-It is most commonly installed wired LAN Technology, and it provides services on Physical and Data Link layer of OSI model. Ethernet
LAN typically uses coaxial cable or twisted pair.

DSL:-DSL Brings Connections to You home through Telephone lines and DSL line carry data and voice signals. DSL Modem uses the telephone line
to exchange Data with DSLAM.

FTTH:-FTTH uses Optical Fiber from a central Office directly to individual buildings and it provides high speed internet access among all access
networks.

Wireless LANS:-It Links two or more devices using wireless communication within a range. It uses high frequency radio waves and often include an
access point for connecting to the internet

3G and LTE:-It uses Cellular telephony to send or receive packets through near by base station operated by Network provider.
 Type of sites
• The nature of the site will be a key factor in deciding the most appropriate network design and
• architecture. Below are The Types include

• Brownfield:- Buildings are already in

place but the existing infrastructure is of
a low standard.
• Greenfield:-New build where the
network will be installed at the same
time as the buildings
• Overbuild:-Adding network to the
existing infrastructure
Requirement for Deployment of FTTP Architecture

1.CAPEX:-
Capital expenditure require to Deploy infrastructure or Build or Initial Cost of Network Deployment.

2. OPEX:-
Operational Expenditure implies running cost and maintenance.it involves cost That will require once network
is Live.

3. Network Architecture:-
Type of Network Architecture Needs to be deployed is it Point to point or Active ethernet.

4. Local conditions:-
Local labor costs, local authority restrictions (traffic control) and others.
Function Requirement For FTTH Network include

• Provision of high-bandwidth services and content to each subscriber.

• Flexible network architecture design with capacity to meet future needs.

• Direct fibre connection of each end-user directly to the active equipment, ensuring maximum Available
capacity for future service demands.

• It should support for future network upgrades and expansion.

• Minimal disruption during network deployment, to ensure fibre networks gain acceptance by Network owners
and to provide benefit to FTTH subscribers.
 The network architecture refers to the design of a
communication network and provides a framework for the
specification of the network from physical components to
services. The access network is the part of the communications
network that directly connects to end-users.

FTTH Topology
and Technology In order to specify the interworking of passive and active
infrastructure, it is important to make clear distinction between
the topologies used for the deployment of the fibers (the passive
infrastructure) and the technologies used to transport data over
the fibers (the active equipment).

The two most widely used topologies are point-to-multipoint,

which is often combined with a passive optical network (PON)
technology, and point-to-point, which typically uses Ethernet
transmission technologies.
 Point to point(P2P) Technology
• (P2P) provide dedicated fibres between the Access Node
(or POP) and the subscriber as Each subscriber has a
direct connection with dedicated fibre.
• The route from the central office (CO) to the subscriber
will probably consist of several sections of fibres joined
with splices or connectors but provides a continuous
optical path from the Access Node to the home.
• This topology can also include PON technologies by
placing the passive optical splitters in the Access Node.
• Most existing point-to-point FTTH deployments use
Ethernet, which can be mixed with other transmission
schemes for business applications (e.g. Fibre Channel,
SDH/SONET).

Point to Point(P2P) Technology

 Point to Multipoint Technology
• (P2MP) provide a single “feeder” fibre from the
central office (or POP) to a branching point and
from there one individual, dedicated fibre is
deployed to the subscriber.
• A passive optical network technology such as
GPON uses passive optical splitters at the
branching point(s) and the Data is encoded so
that users only receive data intended for them.
• Active Ethernet technology can also be used to
control subscriber access in a point-to-
multipoint topology requiring the placement of
Ethernet switches in the field. Each subscriber
has a logical point-to-point connection and the
end-user sends and receives only the data
intended for him or her.

Point to Multi-Point (P2MP)

 Advantages and Disadvantages of P2P Network:-
Advantages:-
 Simple network planning & design
 Maximum optical reach to customers.
 Provide maximum bandwidth utilization, high efficiency of PLT cards, maximizes the utilization of
expensive OLT cards. Since each home/business directly fiber connected to Fiber Distribution Hub
(FDH), there would be no unused ports in the OLT card or and 100% efficiency is achieved. This
allows a wider physical distribution of the OLT ports.
 Network Testing Ability 
 Flexibility

Disadvantages:-

 Requires large amount of fibers in the exchange.

 Increase number of sub-ducts & civil work.

 Costly, due to cable & civil work.

 Not flexible regarding maintenance.

Advantages of P2MP Topology

• Point to multi-point (on GPON) is the most CAPEX efficient

• Lower duct occupancy with less fibers
• Saves OPEX at Central Office
• There is no foreseeable limitation on Available band width
• Higher splitter utilization.
• Simplify maintenance by providing external network test locations.
• Splitter 1:16 and 1:32, can be used to concentrate traffic& reduce the GPON port requirements
• Trouble shooting is done from one single point.
• Better overall loss measurements compared to cascaded distribution.
• Requires less optical devices in the field, thus minimizes the chances of network outages
Network Layers
An FTTH network can comprise of a number of different layers.

Passive infrastructure:-
• It Includes ducts, fibres, enclosures
and other outside plants

Active network:-
 It Includes Electrical Equipments.

Retail services.
 This Layer provides internet
connectivity and managed services,
such as IPTV
• End Users
Passive infrastructure:-
• This Layer involves physical elements are required to build the fibre network. This includes the optical fibre,
trenches, ducts and poles on which it is deployed, fibre enclosures, optical distribution frames, patch panels,
splicing shelves and so on.
 The organization responsible for this layer would also normally be responsible for network route planning, right-of-
way negotiations as well as civil works necessary for the installation of the fibre.

Active network
 This Layer refers to the electronic network equipment needed to bring the passive infrastructure alive, as well as
the operational support systems required to commercialize the fibre connectivity.
 The party in charge of this layer will design, build and operate the active equipment part of the network.
Retail services
• This layer become involved once the passive and active layers are in place. This layer is where basic internet
connectivity and other managed services, such as IPTV, are packaged and presented to consumers and businesses.
• Besides providing technical support, the company responsible for this layer is alo in charge of customer acquisition,
go-to-market strategies and customer service.
Open Access Network
Open Access Network means Access Granted to Multiple service provider other than Owner so that they need to
deploy their own network to reach till Subscriber.

Passive Infrastructure:-

 Infrastructure like ducts, sewers, poles, dark

fibre and wave-lengths, offer
telecommunications operators the opportunity
to share a passive infrastructure and deploy
their own infrastructures on top of delivering
services.

Active open access infrastructure

 Ethernet layer-2 and IP layer-3 make it possible

for service providers offering residential,
business and public services to share a common
active infrastructure that is built by a passive
infrastructure player and operated by an active
infrastructure layer.

Open access models

Network Planning and Design
The deployment cost per Home Passed can amount to thousands of euros in CAPEX for a FTTH network. Therefore, it is
not unusual for FTTH projects to run into hundreds of millions of euros just for establishing the passive infrastructure.
Such large investments require careful planning to minimize financial risk and form the foundation of a cost efficient and
flexible network that can be effectively realised and managed during design phases through to conveying subscriber traffic
or wholesale services.

Network planning are done in three stages as mentioned below.

Stages of Network Design

Strategic Network Design High level Network Design Detailed Network Design
Strategic Network Design:-
• It has two main outputs. Firstly, the general business case decision determines if, where and when
FTTH should be rolled out. Secondly, strategic decisions relating to, for example, the type of
architecture that will be implemented, and the choice of cable and duct technologies.

High-level network design:-

It is the phase where structural decisions for a particular geographical planning area are made. These
include the placement of network elements (distribution points, branch points, etc.) and connectivity
decisions (which location serves a particular area) and a preliminary bill of materials, including the
installation length of cables and ducts as well as quantities for the various types of hardware.
The aim is to generate the lowest cost network plan within the boundaries of the strategic decisions
made in the previous planning phase.

Detailed Network Design:-

• It is the final planning step and the point at which the “to- build” plan is generated. This includes the
network documentation that can be passed to engineering departments or 3rd party construction
companies. Further material included in this planning phase are detailed connection information such
as a splicing plan, the labelling scheme and micro-duct connections.
 Strategic Network Design
• Most of The Business decision is taken in this stage planner has to predict deployment cost and operational
cost as well and predict subscriber service adoption rate and related revenues.

• In this phase it will be necessary to make a decision on the technologies and architecture to be used for the
deployment as well as deciding where and when to deploy the network. below are some points needs to be
taken into consideration

 What methods, components and technologies will be used to build the network?
 Estimating project costs
 Where will the FTTH network be deployed?
 In which order will the sub-areas of the network be deployed?
What methods, components and technologies will be used to build
the network?
Geography of the Area:-

• Depending on N/W architecture which needs to be rolled out N/W design is decided it comprises of
N/W design rules, Deployment method and material specification.
• One of the key factor in N/W architecture is geography with area of N/W design rule will differ greatly.
• In dense area service provider will choose to group more subscriber on single aggregation point
however in rural area distance between Aggregation point and building may become more important
constraint in design. Capacity of each aggregation point result in broader variation in filling of
aggregation point.
• In Rural Area more options will be available to place cabinets but this will not be same with urban area.
• In Rural area deploying cable, trenching will be less expensive as compare to urban are. Use of Heavy
machinery in Rural area is easy as compare to urban area.
Estimating Project cost
• When we think of Any N/W deployment it is important to estimate CAPEX and OPEX. Extensive and accurate
planning with Robust investment model makes it possible to mitigate risk of cost getting out of control for
Network owner.

• Cost Include as below:-

 Labour cost
 Material cost
 Installation, Test and measurement cost
 N/W maintenance cost
 Energy cost
 Cost related to establishing and maintaining Fiber Access Nodes or POP(Point of presence)

 Depending on Business model Not all cost may be responsibility of infrastructure owner. Depending in business
model where infrastructure owner possession is limited to passive layer relying on other companies to manage
and commercialize access network
 Where will FTTH Network be deployed?
• By comparing different regions in terms of expenditure and revenues, a decision can be made on where to deploy the FTTH network. In
reality, investors in FTTH have different profiles. Private investors will put more emphasis on financial performance while public investors have
to serve all potential subscribers equally,
• When concentrating solely on cost, it is generally agreed that there is a clear influence regarding population density on average cost per
home passed. Nevertheless using only (average) population density when comparing areas to ascertain their attractivity to deploy an FTTH
network can be costly. The differences in density on certain streets or areas with large MDUs can still cause variations in cost of more than
40% between two areas of similar density Therefore it is strongly recommended to evaluate all candidate areas in detail rather than working
with representative areas.
• Incorporating geo-marketing data and comparing different areas in their trade-off between required investments (cost per home passed) and
expected revenues (linked to expected percentage of homes passed that will be connected), will further improve the prioritization of areas.

In which order will the sub-areas of the network be deployed?

• When an FTTH project covers a large geographical area, the construction process can easily take several years. The longer the deployment
time-frame, the more important it becomes to determine the optimal order for rolling out the network in a series of sub-areas.
 Economical: areas with best revenue generation potential first - connect business users first etc.
 Visionary: areas with higher growth rate potential first
 Pragmatic: areas most easy to deploy first - where other infrastructure works are planned
 Political: areas with worst existing connectivity first
 Financial: areas where co-investments agreements are possible
High-level Network Design
• Main points of this planning stage involve a reliable estimate of the anticipated
investment, location of POPs and FCPs, decisions about connectivity and which
location will serve which specific area, as well as a bill of materials.
• Important factors which are considered in this stage are shown below

High level N/W Design

Installation of Fiber conc

Where POP will be located Deciding cable route Expected BOM
points
 Where to Install POP’s
• For complex planning areas the planner must decide how many POP locations should be used, where to place the
ODFs and active equipment. If several POPs are used, the planners must also decide which subscribers should be
served by which POP location.
• Generally, the more subscriber served by the POP, the greater the economies of scale in terms of energy,
maintenance and aggregation capacity; however, feeder cables will become longer and thus more expensive.
• For smaller planning areas, where only one single POP is necessary its location is typically chosen from a pre-
defined limited set of options. These are usually dependent on availability to the operator of the buildings in that
specific area. Nevertheless, it is often of interest to know the difference in deployment costs between an available
location and the ideal location for a POP, as there may be unexplored options, such as basements or garages, if the
cost benefit is big enough.
Where to install the fibre concentration points?
• Among the core tasks of high-level network planning involves deciding on where to place fibre concentration points
(FCPs) and which subscriber locations will be connected to which FCP. Also choosing the best fibre-optic management
solution to suit each FCP.

• the optimal location from a cost perspective may not always be practically possible. However, it is recommended to
begin from optimal locations and then to find the nearest practical locations for an FCP as this can result in serious
savings in total deployment costs.

• These decisions will be subject to constraints imposed by the technical specifications of the available solutions to
managing the fibres and the fibre counts of the cables and duct systems.
Which cable routes serve which distribution and feeder areas?
• Decisions relating to cable routes, which provide connectivity between POPs, distribution points, and subscriber premises,
must be made. However, one of the most business-critical decisions involves the digging and laying out of the cables and
ducts both of which are still very expensive.
• It is important to maximize the use of existing infrastructure such as empty ducts, to avoid the necessity of digging and their
associated costs. Consideration should also be given to mixed scenarios: laying cables in existing ducts where available and
combining newly installed ducts and aerial cables where no ducts exist.
• In such a situation it is important to consider the total cable routing cost in order to make a decision on the optimal route. If
shortest aerial route is available so transition between underground to aerial can also be considered if it is cost efficient.

What is the expected bill of materials

 Having made decisions about connectivity, it is time to decide which cable and duct installations should be used on which
routes. Together with the equipment requirements (such as closures, splitters, active switches, etc.), this information can
be used to generate a high-level bill of materials and used to provide quantity indication to the hardware suppliers.

 The automatic high-level planning tool supports the planner in designing a low-cost network that fulfils all technical
constraints and makes optimal use of the existing infrastructure.
Detailed Network Design
• In this stage of the planning process results from high-level planning are converted into "to-build“ plans.
• This involves drawing up a network plan that is accurate and detailed enough to ensure that all official authorizations can be
granted and that working instructions can be generated. Additional specification of aspects such as network connectivity (on
individual fibre level, duct level, etc.) and labelling should also be included.
• In this stage all the data which has been used in previous planning stage can be reused For example geo reference data about
street, address, Buildings and major geographical features. Even structural decision made in High level planning stage is
taken as starting point in to consideration which includes.
(a) The number and the geographical location of the POPs and FCPs.
(b) The serving areas of each POPs and FCP .
(c) The proposed routes including cable and duct installations
• In Order To avoid Data fidelity or Duplicate Data some detailed Clients provides pre integrated interfaces to High level
Network planning solutions.
• Additionally, it is important to know specification of Ducts, cable. Fibres and fibre connector to avoid incompatibility
between different component during planning.
• Apart from OSP detailed data Plan must Include Detailed information about Inside plant Update(ISP) for example Location of
Racks, Optical Line cards, Layer 2 switches, Power and cooling equipment and Optical distribution frame
Surveys
During the design phase it will be necessary to conduct a survey and verify the feasibility of the network in order to avoid
costly changes that might only be discovered during the build phase. There are two types of surveys: desktop survey and
field survey.
Desktop Survey:-
• The desktop survey can be carried out using
free tools such as Google Street View or can be
based on collected mobile mapping and LiDAR
data. It is easy to check important details, such
Survey as road surface conditions, tree locations,
street types, etc. using a desktop survey.

Field Survey:-
• Field verification of the design is still essential.
By taking the initial design out into the field,
the designer can now ensure that the resulting
design will minimize any subsequent changes
Desktop Survey Field Survey during construction.
• Tablets allow designers to take the design into
the field and mark up required changes to the
design using sketching tools, notes and photos.
• They can include information about
obstructions and possible health and safety
issues quickly and simply.
 Mobile mapping and LiDAR technology as the data provided is up to date, more detailed and provides additional beneficial information.
 It is another way to acquire detailed data. Mobile mapping is the process of collecting geospatial data from a mobile vehicle typically fitted
with a range of photographic, radar, laser, LiDAR or any number of remote sensing systems. Such systems are composed of an integrated
array of time synchronized navigation sensors and imaging sensors mounted on a mobile platform. The primary output from such systems
include GIS data, digital maps, and geo-referenced images and video This data provides very valuable information that can be used in the
different stages of the planning and design process.

Desktop Survey using Mobile Mapping and LiDAR data

 Generating the 'to-build' plans
• The Detailed planning phase generates To Build Plan and must add accuracy to Highlevel Network planning results. It
Comprises of below tasks:-
(a) Detailed drop connection: each drop connection (from the last branching point in the street to a building
connection point)
must be exactly positioned and traced.
(b) Cable/duct-in-duct configuration: it must be specified which non-direct-buried cable and which inner duct has been
blown
or pulled into which outer duct, e.g. by specifying the color and label of a micro-duct system.
(c) Connector placement: for each duct system it must be specified at which geographical position one or more of its
ducts (in
particular for micro-duct systems) are connected, with what type of connector and to which duct of another duct-
system.
(d) Labelling: each component installation receives a unique label according to a consistent user-defined scheme which
enables
easy reference and identification for the component in the plan.
(e) Fibre and splicing planning: at ODFs, fibre concentration points and, if conventional cabling is used, at any other
cable connection points, it is necessary to define precisely which pairs of fibres are spliced together and in what tray the
splice will be located.
Documentation of “to-Build” Network

• Documentation of the “to-build” network

• Documentation of POPs including rack space and placement of active and passive equipment

• Generation of work instruction plans for complex objects such as an ODF and Optical Splitters

• Reporting of overall summaries, material lists, cost lists.

• Generation of the tender list

 Software Tools Used
Software tools are key elements for any FTTx projects to support the planning phase of the project
as well as subsequent phases.

• Spreadsheet calculation programs, such as Microsoft Excel are popular especially in the financial planning phase of the
project, but their use is relatively unknown given .the versatility of these products.
• GIS general software: As a General-Purpose environment this software makes it possible to visualize and manage
object within spatial properties. Desktop program such as Arc GIS, Quantum GIS, MapInfo are used.
• CAD Tools:-It allow people to literally draw their own plans they are very general purpose and extremely useful when
Developing very precise detailed to build plan.
• Network Assets Inventory Management software These tools combine a database for storing structured objects (all
objects installed on the field and their environment) with GIS capabilities. They make it possible to manage and
geographically visualize these objects
• Planning and Design software Planning and design software is an aid to the network planning process and greatly
improves efficiency, not only in terms of time (through automation) and the quality of network plans (through
dedicated data models), but also in terms of the associated deployment cost of the plans (through intelligent cost
optimization algorithms).
DIFFERENT TYPES OF OPTICAL FIBERS & USES
Fiberoptic cables are a collection of glass fibers in a cable structure. There are many types of cables

TYPES OF CABLES BASED ON MANUFACTURING

Single Mode cable: Single Mode cable is a single stand (most applications use 2 fibers) of glass fiber with a diameter of 8.3 to 10
microns that has one mode of transmission. Single Mode Fiber with a relatively narrow diameter, through which only one mode will
propagate typically 1310 or 1550nm. Carries higher bandwidth than multimode fiber but requires a light source with a narrow spectral
width. Synonym mono-mode optical fiber, single-mode fiber, single-mode optical waveguide, uni-mode fiber. Single-mode fiber gives
you a higher transmission rate and up to 50 times more distance than multimode, but it also costs more. Single-mode fiber has a much
smaller core than multimode. The small core and single light-wave virtually eliminate any distortion that could result from overlapping
light pulses, providing the least signal attenuation and the highest transmission speeds of any fiber cable type.

Multi-Mode cable: Multi-Mode cable has a little bit bigger diameter, with a common diameters in the 50-to-100 micron range for the
light carry component (in the US the most common size is 62.5um). Most applications in which Multi-mode fiber is used, 2 fibers are
used (WDM is not normally used on multi-mode fiber). Multimode fiber gives you high bandwidth at high speeds (10 to 100MBS -
Gigabit to 275m to 2km) over medium distances. Light waves are dispersed into numerous paths, or modes, as they travel through the
cable's core typically 850 or 1300nm.

Plastic Optical Fiber: POF is a newer plastic-based cable which promises performance similar to glass cable on very short runs, but at a
lower cost.
TYPES OF CABLES BASED ON FTTH APPLICATION

Optical loose tube fiber cables according to the IEC 60794 series or micro-duct cabling for installation by blowing technique according to
the IEC 60794-5 series [6] are typically used for installations at the BEP. The compatibility of other cable constructions to the standard
cables at the specified interfaces is to be considered.

> Outdoor cable

A wide variety of outdoor cables exist for use in FTTH networks. If pulled in using a winch, they may need to be stronger than blown
versions. Blown cables need to be suitably lightweight with a degree of rigidity to aid the blowing process. Outdoor cables are normally
jacketed and non-metallic (to remove the need for earthing and/or lightning protection). However, they may contain metallic
elements for higher strength or for added moisture protection. The fiber count of such cables depends on network structure and size of
building.
> Indoor cable

Indoor cables installed between the BEP and OTO may be suitable for short runs within a house or long runs through a building.
These may range from single fiber cables, possibly pre-connectorized, through to multi-fiber designs using tight buffered or loose
tube designs. The fiber count should be defined according to the network structure and may number between 1 and 4 fibers. Whilst
their design may vary, they are all used in subscriber premises and therefore should offer
some form of proper fire protection.
CONNECTION BOX AT
BEP

For the interface between the optical drop cable and the internal
“in-the-home” network a BEP is used for splicing or routing the
fibers and therefore generally represents the termination of the
optical network from the operators’ perspective. The installation
of an optical fiber cable and connecting element at the BEP, can
be significantly influenced by careful planning and preparation of
an installation specification.

The size of the fiber management system at the BEP depends on

the size of the building, the overall complexity of the installation
as well as the network structure. Typically, fiber management at
the BEP uses specially designed boxes allowing the correct
number of cables in/out, a required number of splices, fiber
reserves and correct fiber management. In addition, fiber
identification, a store of unconnected fibers, locking systems and
future extension of the BEP boxes are important features to
consider. With a PON network the BEP housing may also be used
to accommodate passive splitters.
 As the BEP’s main objective is to hold the fiber management and the splices between the OSP
and the indoor cables, splice trays and additional fixing, splice holders and guiding accessories
are needed to support the fiber infrastructure on a high level. Strain reliefs, spaces and rules to

Splice tray store over length fibers are designed mainly for future re-splicing. Bending radius protection
must always receive the highest attention. Various types of splice cassette systems are available,
which allow for the handling of individual or groups of fibers or even splitter components,
depending on the decisions taken in the design phase. The trays have to fulfill the needs for
fixing or stacking.
 Splitters

Two types of splitters are commonly used in FTTH networks-

Splitters shall be used to optically split power

from optical fibers in passive optical network to 1. Fused Biconic Tapered (FBT) - It Shall be designed for 1:2, 1:4 & 2:4 configurations, with
multiple customer premises, operating in all or without pre-terminated connectors. The fiber output ends for splitters with connectors
wavelengths in the optical spectrum from shall be equipped with LC/APC type connectors. Fused Biconic Tapered (FBT) Shall be used
1260nm to 1650nm. Fiber optic splitter is passive in Optical Splitter Frame (OSF) which located in the exchange or inside outdoor distribution
optical devices that connect three or more fiber enclosures.
ends, dividing one or two input into two or more
outputs. Various Optical Splitters configurations
shall be made available, with split ratios (1: N or 2. Planar Lightwave Circuit (PLC) - It Shall be designed to accommodate the following
2: N, where N is 2, 4, 8, 16 or 32) with different configurations, with or without pre-terminated connectors. This is with split ratio of 1:8 or
encapsulations for a wide range of applications. 2:8, 1:16 or 2:16, & 1:32 or 2:32 and be used in street cabinets, specialized outdoor
closures or termination boxes located in customer’s building.
FTTH - Duct infrastructure
The most conventional method of underground cable installation and involves creating a
duct network to enable subsequent installation of cables using a pulling, blowing or
floatation technique.

A conventional duct infrastructure can be constructed in several ways:

1. Main conduit for sub-ducting (100-110mm;
PVC)
2. Sub-ducts (18-63mm; HDPE)
3. Micro-ducts (3-16mm; HDPE)
4. Micro-duct Bundles (tight, loose, flat; HDPE)

Each of these can be either

A. Direct buried/thick-walled ducts.
These can be laid directly into the ground
and do not need additional mechanical
protection.
B. Direct installed/thin-walled ducts.
These cannot be placed directly in the
ground but are installed inside the bigger
ducts or cable trays using the blowing or pushing method.
 Sub-ducts and Micro-ducts

A duct infrastructure provides high flexibility allowing additional access

network development and reconfiguration. As with all civil works, when
installing an FTTH duct infrastructure, consideration must be given to existing
buried duct systems as well as inconvenience and disruption to traffic and
pedestrians.

The main, but not only, difference between sub-ducts and micro-ducts is the
size. Telecom ducts went through the same process of size reduction as fiber
optic cables. Since micro-cables offer ~50 percent reduction in size and 70
percent reduction in weight compared with standard cables, the duct size has
also been reduced over the years.
Micro-duct solutions
Micro-ducts are defined in the standard IEC 60794-5-20 as a small, flexible, lightweight tube with an outer diameter typically less than
16 mm. cable. They accommodate micro-cables which place greater reliance on micro-ducts for mechanical protection. Thus, a micro-
duct must meet the adequate impact, compression and bending requirements necessary for an application.

Depending on chosen application there are 2 types of micro-ducts

A. Direct Buried/Thick walled
B. Direct Installed/Thin walled

A. Thick walled/DB micro-ducts do not need to be placed or blown inside another duct or tube. These micro-ducts can be direct
buried into the ground as single micro-ducts or in various bundle configurations.

I. Tight bundles - thick-walled micro-ducts are assembled

into bundles, surrounded by a thin jacket that holds all micro-
ducts together. These bundles can be very stiff and may
suffer from undulation due to length differences of individual
micro-ducts. Therefore, bundles of thick-walled micro-ducts
offer the most efficient and installation-friendly solution.
Bundles can comprise of various MD sizes and are available
in a wide variety of shapes.
II. Loose bundles - loose bundles of thick walled micro-ducts are installed inside
thin sleeves allowing them to move freely inside. This solution is mainly used for
pulling into existing main conduits and ensures maximum occupation. Due to the
stiffness and tension of the thick walled microducts, the achievable pulling length
is limited (300- 400m). Also, the cable blowing distance is limited because of
micro-ducts crossings within such bundles. Suitable for short distance
connections.

III. Flat bundles – bundles of thick walled micro- ducts can vary in design (micro-
ducts surrounded by a thin jacket as a group, or individually and (connected).
Such a flat bundle eliminates crossings of individual micro-ducts, and individual
micro-ducts are easily accessible for connecting or branching. The bundles with
individual MD jacketing can also be folded which helps to minimize the occupied
space and provides additional rigidity. Flat bundles can be direct buried or pulled
into main conduits to increase a conduit capacity. Also used for microtrenching
technique.
B. Thin walled/DI micro-ducts – sometimes called protective micro-ducts. These are micro ducts which need extra mechanical protection
and are usually installed inside buildings, cable trays or are blown inside the sub-duct increasing its capacity. They can also be assembled
into bundles

I. Tight bundles - the thin-walled micro-ducts are assembled into bundles,

surrounded by a thin jacket that holds together all micro-ducts. These
bundles are mainly pulled inside the main conduits to increase the duct
route capacity. Bundles can be assembled different MD sizes and are
available in a wide range of shapes.

II. Loose bundles - loose bundles of thin-walled micro-ducts are individual MDs
installed in sub- ducts either in the field by blowing/pulling or pre-installed during
production. Some space for the micro-ducts in the sub-duct is available and
not only enhances blowing of the micro-ducts, but it also improves impact
resistance (micro-ducts can move away) and offers better cable jetting
performance.

III. Flat bundles – bundles of thin-walled micro- ducts are used in LSHF variant
indoors or pulled inside the occupied main conduits. As they are flexible, they can
fit in very congested spaces.
Micro-duct accessories

There is a complete system of accessories available on the market

for micro-duct networks; from basic connectors, gas-blocking end
caps and special branching boxes to tailor-made unique sealing
systems. An essential part of duct networking is ensuring its quality
and performance for a long period of time. Duct networks should
always be designed to include a complete set of accessories, such
as connectors, end caps, reducers, duct sealings, cable sealings,
branch and cable loop boxes, etc.
Generating Build See the below reference model which is used, based on international standards, to specify

Plan physical infrastructure elements in FTTH

INFRASTRUCTURE ELEMENTS
OF THE REFERENCE MODEL
•The detailed network planning phase generates “to-build” plans
and must add details and accuracy to the high-level network
planning result. It comprises the following tasks:

• Detailed drop connection: each drop connection (from the last

branching point in the street to a building connection point)
must be exactly positioned and traced.

• Cable/duct-in-duct configuration: it must be specified which

non-direct-buried cable and which inner duct has been blown
or pulled into which outer duct, e.g., by specifying the color
and label of a micro-duct system.

• Connector placement: for each duct system it must be

specified at which geographical position one or more of its
ducts (in particular for micro-duct systems) are connected,
with what type of connector and to which duct of another
duct-system.

• Labelling: each component installation receives a unique label

according to a consistent, user-defined scheme which enables
easy reference and identification for the component in the
plan.

• Fiber and splicing planning: at ODFs, fiber concentration

points and, if conventional cabling is used, at any other cable
connection points, it is necessary to define precisely which
pairs of fibers are spliced together and in what tray the splice
will be located.
Documentation
All communications providers, whether incumbent or new network operators, must go through the same process steps of planning, execution, and
operation. The requirements for this life cycle are so complex and comprehensive that software support is required for each of the three process
steps. The network operator’s objective is to ensure that the data created during the planning, design and build phases is retained so the resulting
network can be operated and maintained efficiently. Without this data operational costs will increase due to inefficiencies in the operational
processes. Various methods of storing the data are possible, from a central database repository or data warehouse to a locally held GIS-based
documentation of the network layers.

The following aspects, which are required for efficient operation and maintenance, will be discussed:

• Field verification of the network design.

• As-built documentation for network rollout and for all changes made during operation.
• Central data management to combine resource management with provisioning and fulfilment.
• Added value of central data management for service assurance.

Field Verification of Network Design

While it is commonplace for network designers to undertake field visits before developing the initial network design, it is less common for a field
visit to take place once the initial design has been completed. This has several implications as, once the build is in progress, any problems with the
proposed design may force changes to the design. Changes to cable routes can have an impact on the design within the current construction area,
but can also affect other construction areas, for instance, if a cable in one construction area leads over the ducts or conduit into a second
construction area. In extreme cases changes in the field may completely invalidate the optimization of a particular area. It is also essential that
every network object, such as a location, a cable or a device, receive a unique ID throughout the company. As reasonable and easy as it sounds, it
is a major challenge from the IT perspective, and it is almost impossible to solve for large networks. Therefore, it is important that a network
operator decides to introduce a central data management, which creates and assigns the IDs that will be used in all applications.
As-built Documentation

Based on experience, the installed network can differ by up to 30% compared to the planned network. Therefore, it is vital for the operation of
the network that all changes are documented properly. The chosen process strongly depends on the actual network rollout project. At the end of
a turnkey project, the complete project including documentation is handed over to the client. This means the documentation of all intermediate
steps is not relevant for the client. However, if the network operator is managing the project, all intermediate steps need to be documented. For
example, the company blowing the cables needs to know exactly which one of the micro-ducts leads to each building. Any inconsistency between
planning and installation results in mistakes and delays, such as blowing the cable into the wrong duct.

In the past, network operators would enter the as-built data into separate applications; the as-built database being completely independent of
the planning process and the planning tool. An integrated solution (planning and documentation in one tool) simplifies and speeds up processes
leading to additional operational savings. The changes between the as-built documentation and the original design can include altered cable
routes, different types of material, or even new locations, all of which can ultimately influence the attenuation budget or the ordering of splicing.
This can invalidate the optimization performed during the design phase, resulting in unplanned costs and missed budgets. Therefore, it is
important to minimize changes to the design as much as possible during construction.

Reducing the number of changes to the initial design means the as-built documentation can be updated more quickly. Making use of tablets in
the field allows the construction crews to electronically mark-up the changes they have made from the final design to the as-built network. These
changes are then incorporated into the master inventory, in the office, automatically. Increasingly a “bring your own device” (BYOD) approach is
common when construction is outsourced. Universal software that allows contractors to access the relevant designs and update them, either
directly in the field or afterwards from their office, can significantly streamline this process. The operator’s back-office team can then confirm the
proposed changes before accepting them into the master inventory. Once again, the benefits include faster completion of work and the
generation of high-quality network documentation, which is vital for the successful operation of the network.
FTTH Network Testing and Monitoring
For the FTTH network monitoring, the ONT Management and Control interface (OMCI), as specified by ITU-T Recommendation G984-4,
defines the performance and fault management of the OLT, ONT and the physical layer. However, the OMCI requires communication between
the OLT and the ONT. When the ONT does not respond, it is impossible to determine if the problem comes from the ONT or the physical layer,
which is why many operators use an external physical monitoring system that can test the physical layer when the ONT is unreachable.

Optical time-domain reflectometer (OTDR)

An optical time-domain reflectometer (OTDR) is an optoelectronic

instrument used to characterize an optical fiber. An OTDR is the optical
equivalent of an electronic time domain reflectometer. It injects a series of
optical pulses into the fiber under test and extracts, from the same end of
the fiber, light that is scattered (Rayleigh backscatter) or reflected back from
points along the fiber. The scattered or reflected light that is gathered back
is used to characterize the optical fiber. This is equivalent to the way that an
electronic time-domain meter measures reflections caused by changes in
the impedance of the cable under test. The strength of the return pulses is
measured and integrated as a function of time and plotted as a function of
length of the fiber.

An OTDR test from the OLT is often capable of pinpointing the location of faults in the FTTH network and determining the workmanship
involved in the installation. In the monitoring process, the goal is not to qualify the FTTH network (i.e. the measurement of all the elements of
the network, mostly conducted during the installation phase), but to locate fiber degradations and faults.
OTDR Testing

OTDR can identify and locate the position of each component in the network. The OTDR will reveal splice loss, connector loss and reflectance,
as well as the total end to end loss and ORL. All fibres between the OLT and before the first splitter (transport side) may be tested to
characterize the loss of each splice and locate macrobends. The test can be conducted to cover both directions. Post-processing of the results
will be required to calculate the real loss of each splice (averaged between each direction). The engineer can measure the loss of the splitter
and the cumulative link loss, as well as identifying whether any unexpected physical event has occurred before, or after, the splitter.
Construction testing can significantly reduce the number of problems that occur after subscriber activation by certifying end-to-end link
integrity.
If tests can be performed in two steps, i.e. test of the feeder portion (F1) and then test of the distribution portion (F2), then OTDR tests are
quite simple. If tests can only be performed from one end (most likely because the splitters are spliced), then the recommended process is to
use an OTDR test from the distribution/ ONT location. Optimized settings have to be made on the OTDR side, this to provide as much
information as possible along the link. Depending on the split ratio, accurate detection and measurement of events will require the use and
analysis of multiple pulses..
FTTH network troubleshooting

1. Fiber Network troubleshooting

Troubleshooting on an out-of-service FTTH network (i.e., on a point-to-point network or when the entire PON network is down) can
be conducted simply with the use of a power meter or OTDR. However, most of the time, not all subscribers (ONTs) are affected,
therefore it may be necessary to perform in-service tests. In order to troubleshoot a live PON network with portable instruments,
requires a PON power meter using through-mode to investigate which signals going downstream and upstream are out of tolerance.
In order to pinpoint any fiber breaks, macro-bending, faulty splices or connectors, an OTDR with a live testing port (also called
filtered port) must be used from the subscriber’s location.

Ensure the fiber length corresponds to the length in between the drop cable output and the splitter location. If not, this indicates a
problem (break or macro-bend) is present at this location. If the length measurement is correct, every splice point should be checked
to see it does not exceed the normal splice values. Any point exhibiting an excessive loss value will indicate the presence of a macro-
bend, kink in the fiber or a bad splice.
2. In-home wiring troubleshooting
The fiber is terminated at the home by an ONU that provides interfaces to serve analogue and digital video over coaxial cable;
video, VoIP, or data over Ethernet; as well as phone services over twisted pair wiring. Service providers may wish to provide digital
video through quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM) or IPTV or a combination).

Premise architecture incorporating both QAM for broadcast video and IPTV for on-demand, with the IPTV video sharing the coaxial
cable with the QAM digital video, is typically delivered using the Multimedia over Coax Alliance (MoCA) standard. The HPNAv3
protocol can also be used to deliver IPTV and data since it can run on existing twisted pair telephone lines or coaxial cable.

In addition to loss, latency, and jitter emanating from the fiber network, a number of in-home issues can combine to degrade the
subscriber’s quality of experience, including problems with phone lines, Ethernet wiring mis-configuration or faulty termination,
poor coaxial cabling integrity, and noise impairments.

2.1 Phone line issues

Phone lines (twisted pair) in the premises often carry both voice service and data services using HomePNA (HPNA)
standards. The ONU emulates the POTS network by providing all of the battery voltages, ring tones, and dial tones that
were previously delivered by the central office. Consequently, troubleshooting VoIP covering phone wiring is very
similar to troubleshooting POTS.

Common errors affecting in-home wiring installations include:

• opens
• shorts
• crossed wires
• broken wires
2.2 Identifying Ethernet wiring issues
Many homes are now pre-wired with twisted-pair wiring suitable for Ethernet data services. Verification of proper termination is
very important. Between 75% and 85% of the time in-home technicians dedicate to troubleshooting can be attributed to
improper terminations. The most common termination faults can be located using a wiring verifier.

Continuity tests include:

• verification of pin-to-pin connections
• wire capability to carry a signal
• shields
• voltage online

This is a basic connectivity test, not a stress test.

2.3 Locating and resolving coax problems

Existing coaxial home networks present a variety of challenges. Constructed by the home builder, the owner, or perhaps a
previous service provider, the quality and routing of the network is rarely known. A high-quality coaxial installation should
provide at least 30dB of noise isolation to the outside world (noise immunity).

However, these networks often contain:

• splitters
• pinches
• breaks
• bad cables
• un-terminated ends
• bad connections
• amplifiers
Software requirement

A GIS based fiber tool provides more accurate planning for new fiber network and seamless management of the entire integrated
infrastructure. GIS have been used to determine the most suitable method of transmission (wireless or cable), plan network layouts, and
target customers. However, with development of computer and software, it is possible now tracking any fault and determining its
location easily. By knowing the coordinates, the troubleshooting team will find the defect quickly and fix it. In GIS we know three different
ways: in terms of a database (database view), the map (map view) and model (model view)

GIS is helpful for build, test and maintain the FTTH network and for creating an accurate Bill of Materials (BoM) and Bill of Quantity
(BOQ). BOM generates outside plan, head end, and premises equipment and labor cost with enhanced reach and split ratio and estimate
cost as associated with passive and active equipment and components for the typical FTTH network. Automatically GIS creates ODN
(optical Distribution Network) plan, civil plan and spice plan. ODN provides the physical channels from OLT and ONT to communicate with
each other. Splice plan generates with each joint chamber, S1 splitter, FSA and DSA. GIS tool is used for designing of high level network
design. It also creates fiber schematics and in building schema and splice plan schema. Fiber Plan IT saves time, saves on deployment
costs and is really easy to use. There is no room for human errors.

Common GIS Softwares

• GE Smallworld
• ESRI ArcGIS
• MapInfo
• QGIS
• AutoCAD
• Microstation
• Google Earth Pro
• INCA