Fiber optic cable is installed underground through several methods, each with its own approach and application. These methods primarily involve burying the cables, but can also utilize existing infrastructure.
Traditional Trenching
The most common method, referred to as the time-honored method, involves physically digging trenches to bury the fiber optic cables. Here's how it's typically done:
- Digging: A backhoe or a team using pickaxes and shovels excavates trenches in the ground. This method is suitable for new installations in areas where ground conditions are favorable and where the ground can be disturbed.
- Cable Placement: Once the trench is prepared, the fiber optic cable is laid at the bottom of the trench, ensuring it's protected from damage.
- Backfilling: The trench is then filled in with the excavated soil or other suitable material, covering and protecting the cable.
Alternative Deployment Methods
Alongside traditional trenching, several alternative methods are also utilized:
Using Existing Infrastructure
- Storm Water Drains & Sewers: Fiber cables can be deployed through existing underground networks such as storm water drains and sewer systems. This method reduces the need for additional digging and uses existing pathways for cable deployment.
Micro-Trenching
This method is used where traditional trenching is not feasible or practical:
- Narrow Slots: A specialized machine cuts a narrow slot in the road or surface, which is then used for cable deployment.
- Minimizing Disruption: This method minimizes disruption and is often preferred in urban and built-up areas because the cut is narrow and quickly repaired.
Summary of Methods
| Method | Description | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional Trenching | Digging trenches with backhoes or by hand and placing cable before backfilling | Robust, long lasting, ideal for new construction | Labor intensive, disruptive to surfaces, slower implementation |
| Existing Infrastucture | Utilizing existing underground pathways like drains and sewers. | Reduces the need for digging, less disruptive | Requires compatible infrastructure, may have capacity limitations |
| Micro-Trenching | Cutting narrow slots in roads or surfaces with specialized machinery | Fast implementation, minimal disruption, suitable for urban areas | May require specific equipment, can have limitations on trench depth and width |
Each method is selected based on factors like location, environmental conditions, and cost. This ensures fiber optic cable networks can be reliably and efficiently deployed in varied landscapes and settings.
