Fiber Optic Training For anyone who is interested in installing, testing or maintaining a fiber optic network the correct way, proper fiber optic training is a necessity. But first you must decide exactly what field of fiber optics you want to be in. If you want to work in the engineering field of fiber optics, you will want to start with university level classes in physics and then take classes in electronics and fiber optics so you can learn the technology. For designing networks, you will need cable design training in electronics and communications systems. Your training should involve lots of hands-on exercises so you can gain practical knowledge. If you just want to design, install and maintain networks for LANs, Cable TV systems and utilities, take fiber optics training classes that focus on these areas. Along with this, you should learn all you can about cables and connectors. Types of Training Available Two popular types of fiber optic training available today are online training and on-the-job training. Both can be beneficial in different ways, and you can even use both methods to develop fiber optic skills. Online fiber optic training describes the connection and termination components of different types of optical fiber cable. This training also teaches the fundamentals of designing fiber optical cabling systems and the functions of optical receivers and transmitters. Valuable work hours will be saved for the employer if an employee trains online first. While taking online training from an instructor, you can often learn at your own pace with flexible hours. On-The-Job Training Many companies offer on-the-job training to high school graduates with a strong background in physics and mathematics. Employees that qualify can gain experience in fiber optics while also learning the company’s methods and procedures. When their training period is over, both the company and employee enjoy mutual benefits. The company gains an experienced, trained fiber optics specialist. The employee gains paid training and a steady career in fiber optics. Other options available for fiber optic training are seminars, self-study programs, and technical schools. Self-study programs involve reading a book or watching a video, and are good for someone who wants to learn on their own or who has a tight schedule. To learn the right techniques, the books and videos should include assignments, explanatory text, and hands-on exercises. By taking a course at a technical school, you will have access to hands-on training and also have an instructor available for any questions you might have. If you decide to attend a seminar, make sure it focuses on the aspect of fiber optics you are interested in. Fiber Optics Jobs Available With the proper training in fiber optics, there are several types of careers available. These include a telecommunications cabling technician, fiber optic installer, and a fiber optic assembler. Fiber optic technicians maintain fiber optic cable systems in both digital and voice transmissions. The technicians install the cables, locate and repair defects, and perform many other tasks for maintaining cables. A fiber optic installer's job is to install connectors on various types of fiber optic cables by using different forms of epoxies. The installer also performs mechanical and fusion splicing. The fiber optic assembler sits mostly at a table and must have really good eyesight. The assembler gets up occasionally to cut and measure the fibers, get connectors, and test the cables. You can find out more about fiber optic training online through organizations such as The Fiber Optic Association (FOA) (http://www.thefoa.org/). This organization provides a list of FOA approved training schools and fiber optics tutorials at its website and other great resources. As more and more companies in fields such as telecommunication, medical, manufacturing, and research use fiber optics, job availability for people with fiber optic training will definitely increase.
Fiber Optic Job Pricing - What to Charge If you're a fiber optics engineer, network manager, or installer, you might be wondering if you're using the right method for determining what to charge clients. Every fiber optics job is unique, so it's wise to give estimates based on all the facts about that particular job and its requirements. Don't assume that just because a new job sounds similar to a previous job, it will cost you the same. This could result in lost profits and time for you. Estimate with Knowledge When estimating the costs of a fiber optics job, do all necessary calculations before giving an estimate. Calculate materials, testing and termination instruments, cleaning supplies, cables, fibers, and other tools that will be needed to create the network. Also, calculate how much time it will take to complete each procedure. Consider additional time for errors, repeat testing when things go wrong, and termination times. Never take the manufacturer’s word for it when it comes to termination and testing. Always try out the connectors in your office before visiting the job site. Visit the Fiber Optics Job Site Before giving an estimated price, visit the actual job site where you will be creating the fiber optics network. Walk the area where you will be installing cables and make a note of other nearby cables, any obstructive objects, excessive temperatures, potential moisture problems, etc. Also, bring a camera along if you're allowed to take photos. Check to be sure there's enough space for your equipment and supplies while working. Communicate with Your Client Lack of communication between you and your potential client is a disaster in the making. You can't adequately give a quote for the job if you're not sure of exactly what the client needs. Create a detailed interview sheet to carry with you when visiting the job site. Ask lots of questions about what the client needs. An interview sheet will provide you with the questions so you won't have to pull them from memory. Document Every Planned Detail of the Job Your client may be concerned with the cost of a fiber optics network, but they are most likely more concerned with whether or not you can do the job properly within a reasonable amount of time. This is where documentation comes in. Document everything you plan to do while setting up their fiber optic network. Write down where the cables, connectors, splices, etc. will be placed. If possible, draw a map of the network's path. This helps the client to visualize what your finished product will look like. The primary reason for documenting every detail is to ensure the client you know what you're doing and you already have a definite plan of action when you arrive on the scene. No second guessing! This also enables you to bid higher than your competitors in some cases. Clients expect to pay more when they feel the quality of work will be worth it. Documentation doesn't make you better than the competitor, but the client might perceive you to be the best and most organized fiber optic specialist. If you're still uncertain about the estimation and bidding process for fiber optics jobs, there is software available that will calculate the costs and create an estimate for you. This can be useful if you have several jobs going at once. With fiber optics networks, you can never be too careful with estimations and bids. It's better to over-estimate from the start and surprise your client with a lower price later than to under-estimate and lose money in the long run.
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