Fiber Optics Training

Course Description: This introductory fiber optic tech course is designed for anyone interested in becoming a Certified Fiber Optic Technician and is a pre-requisite for any of the specialist Certifications. This Fiber Optic Training combines theory and 85% hands-on activities to prepare the student to take the CFOT (Certified Fiber Optic Technician) test that is sanctioned by the FOA (Fiber Optics Association) and given and graded the final class day. This course also introduces the student to industry standards governing FTTD (Fiber To The Desk), FTTH (Fiber To The Home), and Distribution Cabling. Students will learn how to identify fiber types, recognize various connectors used in fiber installation; and install, terminate, splice, and properly test installed fiber cable to existing standards. Course Schedule:

Day – 1:
Introduction to Fiber Optics

• Fiber To the Desk
• Fiber To The Home
• Multimode Fiber Optics Networking
• Fiber Optics Safety
• Hands-on Session Begins – Anaerobic Polishing Procedures. Basic patch cable assembly, testing, troubleshoot, and repair.

Day – 2:

• Fiber Optics Networking Standards
• Fiber Optics Cable and Connector Identification
• Outside Plant Fiber Cable preparation, termination and testing – Demonstration
• Hands-On Session continues
• Students must build, test and troubleshoot actual multimode fiber optics network according to industry standards
• Introduction to Basic OTDR Functions and Traces
• Use of the OTDR, VFL, Power Source and
• Light Meter Functions
• Continuity Testing, Troubleshooting, Managing Tools and Equipment
• Hands-on Session Continues -
• Termination of Fiber Connectors, Introduction to Splicing
• (Mechanical and Fusion). Introduction to fiber optics network troubleshooting. Students will begin installation of MM fiber optics network using 12-fiber distribution style cable with SC and ST connectors.

Day – 3:

• Written and Hands-On Exam review session (Students must pass both the written and the hands-on exams)
• Administer and grade Certified Fiber Optic Technician exam
• Introduction to ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-B.3, Optical Fiber Cabling Components Standard
• A review of fiber optics safety procedures
• Comprehensive overview of ANSI/TIA/EIA-526-14A , FOTP-171, FOTP-107
• Hands-on activities demonstrating OFSTP 7 test procedures. Students must build, test, and troubleshoot actual singlemode ISP network to industry standards utilizing all available test equipment: OTDR, OLTS, and VFL.

Course Description: This program is designed to offer advanced training to anyone involved with the testing and maintenance of fiber optics networks. A focal point in the program is to offer a general, easy to understand, approach to fiber optics testing standards with little theory and considerable hands on activities. This comprehensive program explains the variety of testing standards, equipment and technological approaches used in fiber network testing and splicing and how to choose among them. This 85% hands on course explores the overall spectrum of testing and maintenance of single mode fiber optics networks and provides a detailed overview and demonstration of various pieces of equipment used in testing and maintenance. Subject matter includes a detailed study of ANSI/TIA/EIA-526-(7)A, OTDR fundamentals and uses, OTDR vs. Insertion Loss Testing, Return Loss Testing, and Attenuation testing using the Power Source and Light Meter.

Day – 4:

• Introduction to Advanced OTDR Functions,
• Use of the OTDR, Power Source and Light Meter Functions,
• Fiber Identifier,
• Continuity Testing,
• Tools and Equipment,
• Safety,
• Class Discussion
• Administer and Grade Certified Fiber Optic Specialist in Testing Written and Hands-On Exams
• Test Results and Review, Conclusion.

Course Description: This Splicing Specialist Training includes a complete PowerPoint presentation explaining the importance of high performance splicing and further details the points necessary to achieve these splices. The depth of this presentation is much greater than most textbooks and provides background information about splicing that is very important to the student. An overview of OTDR functions and trace understanding is also provided during this presentation. 85% hands-on classroom activities will provide training in both fusion and mechanical splicing of either single or multimode fiber optic cables. Inside or outside plant fiber optic cable types will be utilized at instructor’s discretion during these hands-on sessions along with fiber optics enclosures and splice trays. The student will be responsible for successfully making and testing both mechanical and fusion splices. In addition to the basic splicing activities outlined above, the student will further be required to correctly and efficiently install spliced fibers into splice trays and enclosures. The student will further be required to achieve a splice loss of less than 0.15 dB for all splices and demonstrate proficiency in interpretation of splice loss using OTDR splice traces.

Day – 5:

• Fusion and Mechanical Splicing Process
• Splice Troubleshooting
• Hands-on Session Begins. Students must build test and troubleshoot actual fiber optics cable plant using pigtails with both fusion and mechanical splicing techniques to industry standards.
• Hands-on Session Continues
• Wall Mount Enclosures and Installation with splices (both fusion and mechanical),
• Hands-on Practical (Splicing Troubleshooting Exam)
• Review
• Written Exam
• Test Results, Exam Discussion, and Questions

Note: Students must pass both written and hands on exams to receive FOA Certification. *Actual hours may vary depending on number of students.