April, 2007

In This Issue
 
 
FTTx Summits Scheduled on East Coast in June
 
Google TiSP Introduces FREE FTTT
 
Is Fiber "Wire"???
 
Free Fiber Optic Testing Textbook From JDSU
 
New Tech Topics: Why are there 4 ways (maybe 5) to test fiber optic cables? (PDF) How do you clean connections?
 
Looking For a Fiber Optic Installer?
Use the FOA Installer Database Free!
 
CFOTs - Register Now On The FOA Searchable Database of Installers, Contractors and Consultants. Go to the FOA Installer Database to register.
 
Looking For Jobs? See Below
FTTx Jobs: Verizon offers lots of opportunities.
 
Tech Puzzler - test your fiber knowledge!

NEW: Sign up for the new FOA eMail Newsletter

 

The Archives

Read Previous Issues: 03/07 , 2/07, 1/07

12/06, 11/06, 10/06, 09/06, 8/06, 7/06, 6/06, 5/06, 4/06, 3/06, 2/06, 1/06,

12/05,11/05, 10/05, 09/05, 08/05, 07/05, 6/05, 5/05, 4/05, 2/05, 01/05,

12/04, 10/04, 9/04, 8/04, 7/04, 6/04, 5/04, 4/04, 3/04, 1/04,

12/03, 11/03 10/03 9/03, 8/03, 7/03, 6/03, 3/03, 10/02 , 8/02, 5/02


FTTH News
"Fiber To The Home Summits" Coming To New England And Mid-Atlantic States In June
Following up on our highly successful "Fiber To The Home" Summit Meeting this January at LA Trade Technical College in Los Angeles, the FOA has scheduled Summits in New England and the Mid-Atlantic regions. On June 12, we'll be the guests of New Hampshire Technical College at Pease near Portsmouth, NH, as the guests of Dave Miller who teaches the FOA program there. On June 14, we'll be at West Chester College in the NW Philly suburbs hosted by Arnie Harris of ElA, a FOA approved training organization. For full details on the meetings, watch the FOA website - and we'll send details using our email list.
 
Want To Learn More About FTTx?
The FOA has created a special FTTx resources section of our website with a FTTx links page with lots of links to news, market reports, technical articles and vendor technical and product information. Here is a great place to start learning more about FTTx.
 
FOA's CFxT FTTx Certification Program Explained
Read the Broadband Properties article about the FOA FTTx certification program.


Google Enters Broadband Home Connection Market

With Free FTTT* Offering Called Google TiSP !

On April 1, Google announced their new, free broadband service that connects to an in home wireless router with a optical fiber that users can install themselves! No more waiting for the telco to bring fiber to your home, no expensive sign-up costs, no long term contracts. This is one of the biggest FTTx developments this month. Google must be "flushed" with pride!

From the Google Press Release: Users who sign up online for the TiSP system will receive a full home self-installation kit, which includes a spindle of fiber-optic cable, a TiSP wireless router, installation CD and setup guide. Home installation is a simple matter of GFlushing™ the fiber-optic cable down to the nearest TiSP Access Node, then plugging the other end into the network port of your Google-provided TiSP wireless router. Within sixty minutes, the Access Node's crack team of Plumbing Hardware Dispatchers (PHDs) should have your internet connection up and running.

Be sure to read the installation instructions. PR too.

More on Google TiSP

 


Without Further Comment:

 

 

The attached jpg is from page 3 of the new TIA 2007 Technology and Policy Primer.

 


Download This!
 
JDSU offers a free download of their Testing Guide from the Lightwave website. This is one great book which explains some basic fiber technology, but the real value is the last half which deals with OTDR testing. Not only does it give the usual info, but it covers important topics like measurement uncertainties and anomolies like ghosts and gainers.
 
I was in the testing business for 20+ years at Fotec and think this book is one of the best fiber optic testing texts available. It's complete but comprehenisble! I used to believe that premises techs did not need OTDR training, but now OTDR manufacturers are pushing their use in premises networks. Unfortunately, the limitations of OTDRs in premises applications can cause extreme problems for those who are not aware of their limitations. So knowing hows OTDRs work is essential information to every tech. 
JH
 
Download yourself a copy and read it!
http://lw.pennnet.com/whitepapers/wp.cfm?id=665

 
Now In Spanish: FOA Textbook & Text For FOA Advanced Certifications
The FOA's textbook, The Fiber Optic Technicians Manual, is used by our approved schools around the world to teach fiber optics. Book Details: Manual Del Technico De Fibra Optica, Published by Thomson Delmar Learning, ISBN 1-4180-6121-2
If you are getting started in fiber optics and Spanish is your native language, you can download an introduction to fiber optics in Spanish here.
 
Eric Pearson's book that is used for the CFOS/I reference book, Successful Fiber Optic Installation, is also now available in Spanish.
 
Contact the FOA for more information.
 
 
 
 

 
NEW-FOA Technical Bulletins/Tech Topics
 
Testing Update
Are there really 5 different ways to test optical fiber cabling after installation? Why so many? How do the measurements - and more importantly the measurement results - differ? What are the advanteages and disadvantages of each method?
Why are there 4 ways (maybe 5) to test fiber optic cables?
Do OTDRs and OLTS tests give the same results?
 
Technical Bulletins
How do you design and manufacture fiber optic systems? Choose and install one to serve your communications needs? Troubleshoot problems? The FOA Fiber Optic Technical Bulletins will provide step-by-step guidelines to help you. All are PDF files you can download, print and use.
Designing and manufacturing fiber optic communications products for manufacturers.
Choosing, installing and using fiber optic producst for users.
Troubleshooting fiber optic cable plants and communcations systems.
 
New Tech Topics
Updated link specs for fiber optic networks - now includes 10G Ethernet.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) on General Topics and Testing
Fiber Or Copper? Making decisions, overview and LANs
How do you clean connections?

Links:

Bob Ballard of FOA-Approved School BDI Datalink has a neat website with some good technical content. Be sure to pay particular attention to these pages:
http://www.bdidatalynk.com/mythsoffiberoptics.html and http://www.bdidatalynk.com/askdoctor.html

Like Good Technical Videos? Try NECA/IBEW/JATC's Electric TV.


Job Openings
 
Verizon: Fiber Network Field Technician (Outside Field Technician)
Openings in the following areas: CA, TX, WA, OR, VA, MA, NJ, RI

Take your career to new heights at a company that's a leader in global communications: Verizon. We offer an unparalleled opportunity to advance your career while contributing in an enthusiastic, team-oriented environment.
Primary duties include, but are not limited to:
Install, remove, rearrange, program, test, troubleshoot and maintain fiber network services.
Install and configure routers, set top boxes.  May assist with installation of PC software as needed and ensure proper configuration of the customer's PC.  Interact with the Fiber Solution Center as needed.  May install appropriate inside wire/cable.
Install, maintain and repair outside and inside fiber equipment/facilities including inside wiring and fiber jumpers at the distribution hub.
Interface with customer to negotiate the placement of equipment; may assist with account registration, e-mail, and web access, and training the customer on how to use the new equipment.  Ensure customer satisfaction.  Respond to inquiries and provide follow-up, as necessary.
Interpret schematic work order drawings to determine job specifications and installation needs.  Order and/or obtain required equipment.  Effect problem solving where appropriate.
Utilize various test equipment to analyze equipment trouble and take appropriate maintenance action.
Skills/Requirements:
Requires high level of customer contact to ensure customer satisfaction.
Climbing poles and ladders; lifting 75-100 pounds on a regular basis; pushing, reaching, bending and stooping; manual dexterity; good sense of balance; and good color vision.
Must have a current/valid California Drivers License and a clean driving record.
Qualified candidates must pass all company required tests, a pre-employment drug screen and a background check. In addition, candidates will be required to successfully pass a legally required DOJ Criminal Records Check/screening process (fingerprinting).
Candidates must be able to work any shift given, including days, weekends, holidays and overtime as required.
Verizon offers:
Hourly rate for this position is $12.87-28.55.  Wage credit may be granted for related work experience and/or college degree.
Benefits include medical, dental, life insurance, 401(k) with Company match and paid vacation
interested candidates should go to https://www22.verizon.com/about/careers/fiberjobs.html to apply AND schedule themselves for testing.
Thank you for showing an interest in Verizon!
Verizon is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer supporting workforce diversity. m/f/d/v. Principals only! 

Global Business Director ­ Broadband/HFC

Reports To:
Vice President, Broadband Product Management
General Summary:Plan, develop, organize, and direct global product management strategies of the company's broadband coaxial and fiber optic cable business to achieve sales, margin, and market share goals and customer needs. Operates in a cross-functional environment working with Sales, Operations, Finance, Legal, and Engineering and Quality.
Sales Volume: $400 Million
Supervises
: Product Managers and Product Specialists
Contact:
Harry R. Sacks
Director, Business Development & Recruiting
Sterling Global HRC
2415 E. Camelback Road
Suite 1090
Phoenix, AZ 85016
800-350-8012 Ext. 118
602-470-8400
602-809-8730 - Cell
hsacks@sterlinghrconsulting.com
http://www.sterlinghrconsulting.com
 

 
Technical Personnel Available -Experienced In Manufacturing Fiber Optic Components and Systems
 
Northrop Grumman decided to close its Fibersense Technology facility in Canton, MA . The facility employs 160 people, producing Fiber Optics Gyroscopes. Fiber optic gyro is made of state of the art PM fibers, phase modulators, splitters, light sources (fiber and diode sources), receivers,
with advanced packaging and electronics implementation. The hardware and production line are being transferred to the west coast plants. This phase-out started already, and the tentative closure is by July.

Expert resources are available and looking for alternative employment in Massachusetts:
Optical technicians
Fiber optics sensor assembly technicians
Electrical technicians
Photonic R &D technician
All categories of engineers 

If you have an interest in any of the above, please send me e mail and I will ask the relevant people to contact you.

Ram Yahalom
R & D Manager
Northrop Grumman - Navigation System Division
Canton, MA
Ram.Yahalom@NGC.com
781-232-2225 (w)



 
 
 
Also Check Recent Job Openings In Previous Issues of The FOA Newsletter

 


 
 
Tech Puzzler
What is this? This OTDR trace shows a common feature that confuses many new OTDR users. For the answer, see below.
 
 
 
Answer below
 
 
 

Understanding FOA Certifications
To answer questions on FOA certifications, we've created several new web pages:
Overview of FOA certifications
CFOT
CFxT
AFOT
CFOS
Training Requirements - What Schools Are Teaching
 
Reading these will help you understand what each FOA certification covers and how to prepare for them.
 

New Professional Society for Structured Cabling Recognizes Importance of Fiber Optics (and Wireless)
The new Structured Cabling Association, Inc. (http://www.scausa.org/) is a professional society aimed at installers of "structured cabling" or premises cabling. Structured cabling has been focused on so-called "Cat 5" or UTP cabling for years, while network speeds have left UTP behind. Now most backbones for LANs are fiber optics and every network seems to have wireless. The SCA, founded in part by FOA activists Tom Collins and Jim Hayes, intends to make structured cabling training and certification more relevant to today's world.
 

 
FOA Logo Merchandise
FOA has arranged with EmbroidMe to provide FOA logo merchandies. Identify yourself as a FOA-certified tech or instructor. The lab coats are super impressive for either cabling techs and instructors. Check out the selection.
 

 

 

 
FOA CFOT Renewals Get Free Copy of NECA/FOA Installation Standard
Every CFOT renewal will now receive a free copy of NECA 301-2004, Installing And Testing Fiber Optic Cables, produced by The FOA in cooperation with NECA (The National Electrical Contractors Association). This is an important reference document for defining the installation and testing of fiber optic cable plants in a "neat and workmanlike manner."
The FOA feels this is such an important document that we are giving a free copy (normally priced at $15) to every active CFOT when they renew their active status.
The FOA has also sent free copies to all FOA-Approved schools. The new FOA CFOT exam to be used after August, 2005, will include questions from the standard. Schools should be including information from the standard in their classes already.
 
 
 

FOA Certification Top Choice

The FOA CFOT and CFOS programs continue to gain momentum in fiber optics. Over 20,000 CFOTs have been certified by over 160 schools as the FOA enters its 12th year. Since our founding in July, 1995, we have dedicated ourselves to promoting fiber optics and professionalism in fiber optics personnel, focusing on education and certification. We are continuing to add new schools and more CFOTs as users of fiber optics learn that a CFOT is the indication of a professional, well-trained fiber optic technician. Now with FTTH (fiber to the home) finally taking off, demand for CFOTs is rising and schools are responding by expanding programs rapidly.
The FOA now has approved programs at 160+ organizations, welcoming new additions like the Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Corning Cable Systems and AFL for their installation training programs and NASA's Goldstone Tracking Station. The complete list of FOA-Approved schools is at http://www.thefoa.org/foa_aprv.htm.

 


Your Name, CFOT - It pays to advertise!

The FOA encourages CFOTs to use the logo on their business cards, letterhead, truck or van, etc. and provides logo files on this site for that purpose. But we are also asked about how to use the CFOT or CFOS certifications. Easy, you can refer to yourself as "Your Name, CFOT" or "Your Name, CFOS/T" for example.

Feel free to use the logo and designations to promote your achievements and professionalism!

 


Remember To Renew Your Certification !

Remember to renew your FOA certification. All current CFOTs have a ID Card with their certification data and we keep a database of current CFOTs to answer inquiries regarding your qualifications if needed. You must be a current FOA member and CFOT to participate in our online database of installers, contractors, technicians and consultants. If you forgot to renew, use the online application form to renew NOW!

 


 

To Contact The FOA:
 
The Fiber Optic Association
1119 S Mission Road, # 355
Fallbrook, CA 92028
 
Office Hours 10AM-5 PM Pacific Time
Telephone: 760-451-3655
Fax: 781-207-2421
info@thefoa.org




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(C)1999-2007, The Fiber Optic Association, Inc.

 

Tech Puzzler: Gainer

The increase in backscatter level causes a low-loss fusion splice to show a gain instead of a loss. "Lennie": has a complete explanation of gainers.

See the FOA Tech Topics Connector ID page.