Aerial fibre, also known as aerial fiber optic cable, uses existing infrastructure like utility poles or electricity pylons to transmit data. Instead of burying the cables underground, which is more expensive and time-consuming, it's suspended in the air. This significantly reduces installation costs and time.
The Process:
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Cable Installation: The aerial fibre cable, which contains all the necessary fibres for a telecommunication line, is typically lashed to a wire rope messenger strand using a small gauge wire. This ensures the cable is securely suspended. [Source: Reference 1, Reference 7, Reference 11]
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Hardware and Accessories: Various hardware and accessories, including cable clamps and suspension devices, are used to support the cable along its route, securing it to the poles at regular intervals. [Source: Reference 2, Reference 3]
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Connection to Premises: From the main aerial cable, a connection is made to individual buildings using specialized methods. This might involve running a drop cable from the main line to a connection point at the customer's premises. [Source: Reference 6]
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Signal Transmission: Once connected, the fibre optic cables transmit data using light pulses. This process is extremely efficient and allows for high-speed data transmission over long distances.
Advantages of Aerial Fibre:
- Faster and Cheaper Deployment: Aerial fibre is significantly faster and cheaper to deploy than underground networks. [Source: Reference 8]
- Reduced Installation Costs: Avoiding the need for excavation reduces the cost of installation significantly. [Source: Reference 8]
- Efficient Use of Existing Infrastructure: It leverages existing infrastructure, minimizing environmental impact.
Considerations:
- Accessibility for Maintenance: Regular maintenance and repairs are crucial. Access for technicians to aerial lines is needed. [Reference 3, Reference 10]
- Weather Conditions: Aerial cables are vulnerable to extreme weather conditions like strong winds, ice, or storms, potentially causing damage or interruptions to service.
- Potential for Damage: Accidental damage from falling trees or other objects is a risk.
