Using fiber optic cables to transmit data is one of the biggest internet innovations since the creation of wifi. Fiber internet is faster, more reliable, and more secure than cable internet. But because it’s new technology, many people are unfamiliar with the installation process.
As Alberta’s fiber internet experts, Tether has all of the details on installation, what you can expect, and how you can prepare.
Installation
Fiber optic internet relies on totally different infrastructure than cable internet. We need to place fiber optic cables underground in your community, then run those cables to each home. This process might seem like a lot of work at a glance, but it’s necessary to keep your community connected and up to speed.
Here’s a step-by-step overview of the installation process.
Leaving Service Markers
Our first step will be marking the ground with flags or paint. These service markers show us where your underground utilities (like water and gas lines) are so we don’t accidentally damage them. We ask that you please leave these markers in place until the next step (conduit placement) is complete.
We will notify you at least 24 hours before we begin working on your street.
Conduit Placement
Now we enter the first stage of the 2-part construction process. The work crew will either call you or knock on your door immediately before starting work on your property.
The crew installs conduit, which is tubing similar to PVC piping designed to protect the fiber optic cable from damage underground.
The conduit is installed by digging a thin, shallow trench into your property, leading to your home. There will be some machinery and a few workers on your property during this part of construction. Our team will fill in and seed any places where your lawn has been disturbed. This stage is the only time we will need to dig or use machinery.
9 days after installation, this trench has already practically disappeared.
Pulling & Connecting the Fiber Cable
The next step usually takes place about 2 weeks later.
We complete the construction process by feeding the fiber optic cable through the conduit already on your property. Then, we connect the cable to a weather-proof box that we will fasten to the outside of the house. The box usually goes next to your electrical meter.
Aside from allowing the work crew onto your property, this part of the installation is totally non-invasive.
Set-Up
Once your fiber internet service is available, we can move on to the set-up phase.
An installation crew will run your cable from the weather-proof box outside through to a device inside your home. We will also configure any electronic devices required to deliver your internet service. By the time we leave, your fiber optic internet will be ready to use!
A Little Bit of Work for Long-Term Rewards
Having fiber optic cable installed on your property requires no effort on your part. This minimally-invasive installation process ensures that your home is fully equipped to keep up with an ever-changing digital world.
