Some FTTH networks have now become decades old. The maintenance of aging FTTH networks is now becoming a challenge for the network owners. In the worst case scenario, the condition of some aging FTTH networks is at a point that the network owners have no other option but to replace it.
Replacing FTTX networks is a costly procedure. You cannot do too much to stop the aging process. However, the aging process can be slowed down by adopting professional maintenance procedures.
Optical Fibers are inherently more fragile and sensitive to damage than copper cables. So, if you are planning to deploy an FTTH network or your FTTH network is aging. You might have to face the following challenges in the future:
Optical Fiber Flaws
Although high-quality glass fibers are more resistant to damage and degradation as compared to plastic optical fibers. With time, fiber-optic can have optical fiber flaws, like micro-cracks and splitting. Such weaknesses gradually deteriorate the optical fibers that can have a profound effect on the longevity of the fibers.
This degradation process can also have a significant impact on the performance and speed of the optical fiber network. Surface flaws can be avoided if the optical fibers are adequately protected with conduit and regular maintenance by professional IT technicians.
Moisture and Dirt Protection
It is often assumed that optical fiber networks do not require any professional maintenance. This is a huge misconception that can speed up the fiber degradation and aging process. It is essential to ensure that your aged fiber optic is not affected by dirt and moisture.
It is vital that all the connectors’ seal is intact and splices’ seal are also adequately enclosed. Taking professional help is essential because uninformed maintenance attempts can cause more harm than good as dirt and moisture can enter the connectors and fibreoptics splicing that can affect the fiber optic network.
Fiber-Optic Strain
Aging optical fiber network might be facing issues that may be causing fiber-optic stress. As a result, your optical fiber network might be aging more quickly than its expected lifespan. During installation, you might have taken all the precautionary steps to protect your fiber optic network from the strain.
However, there is a high chance that due to environmental, physical or other reasons your fiber-optic network may be overstretching or external pressure might be overstraining the FTTH network. Such issues can cause significant network failure issues in the longer-run. Getting your network checked by a professional technician can help you slow down the fiber-optic aging process.
Environmental Changes
Environmental changes can merely add to the challenges of an aging fiber-optic network. If your FTTH network is decades old, you wouldn’t want it to be exposed to extreme temperatures and moisture. It is also essential that your fiber optic is protected from any nearby hydrovac process that might cause future strain on the fiber-optic network resulting in speeding the aging process or the “stress corrosion.”
Protection and prevention from environmental damage might require professional help, and timely action can significantly help in slowing down the aging process.
