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Looking For a Fiber Optic Installer? Use the FOA Installer Database Free!

 

CFOTs - Register Now On The FOA Searchable Database of Installers, Contractors and Consultants

Go to the FOA Installer Database to register.

 

CFOTs - Looking For Jobs? See Below

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FOA Board Meets In California, Attends OFC

The FOA Board of Directors at OFC: Bill Graham, Tom Collins, Jim Hayes, Karen Hayes, Eric Pearson

 

The FOA board met in Fallbrook, CA the weekend before the OFC show in Anaheim. Most of the time was spent on FOA procedures, certifications and standards. Several items are of interest to FOA CFOTs, schools and instructors:

 

-Final defiinition of the FOA FTTx certification program, planning for definitive reference material and creating a plan for CFxT availability. The CFxT reference material will be written, reviewed by a industry technical committee and posted on the FOA website for use by schools, instructors, students and CFOTs to study for the CFxT certification. The process should be completed before midsummer.

 

-The creation of a new "advanced" certification, AFOT for Advanced Fiber Optic Technician. The AFOT program is specifically designed for schools that offer training beyond the CFOT level, especially to develop termination, splicing and testing skills. Standards for the certification and beta-testing will be available shortly.

 

-The realignment of the CFOS certification as a "specialist" designation and the adoption of Eric Pearson's book, Successful Fiber Optic Installation, as the reference book for FOA Specialist Certification.

 

-A commitment to publish three new "FOA Guides" which will offer step-by-step procedures for 1)manufacturers of fiber optic equipment, 2) users choosing and installing fiber optic equipment and 3)troubleshooting and restoring fiber optic networks.

 

After all that work, the group headed for OFC, where we split up to see the exhibits, looking for new products and old friends. We'll continue our OFC report next month.

 

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Photonic Crystal Fibers Shift Wavelengths

Researchers at UC San Diego and Univ. of Rochester using photonic crystal fibers (sometimes called "holey fibers") have been able to shift the wavelngth of fiber optic sources. And we're not talking small shifts, as they showed they could convert 1550 nm to visible light at 515 and 585 nm. The conversion uses mixing light of various wavelengths to create new wavlengths. Current interest is in converting light from wavelengths proper for fiber transmission to wavelengths for through the air or water transmission, but one can imagine many other uses.

Read more http://www.technologyreview.com/InfoTech/wtr_16666,294,p1.html

 

 

 

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FOA Helps CFOTs Find FTTP Jobs @ Verizon

The FOA has been working with Verizon to help recruit qualified fiber installers, including new graduates of FOA-Approved training programs. As you probably FTTP has become one of the hottest areas in fiber optics. Verizon asked The FOA to help them in their recruitment efforts, through our FOA-Approved schools and contacting our current CFOTs. In the first two months of 2006, Verizon hired 100 techs and expects to hire 800 in 2006!

Details on the Verizon requirements are given below and you can apply online.

 

Even if you are not looking for a job, look at the Verizon website - there are some great videos of FTTH installs around the country!

 

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Loma Linda and FTTH/P

At the Loma Linda Workshop sponsored by Broadband Properties Magazine, we saw one city's solution to providing fiber-connected broadband to their residents.

We attended this seminar because we heard Loma Linda, CA has specified FTTP in their building code! James Hettrick, Director of Information Systems, not only gave us a rundown on the system they are installing, but gave the attendees a tour of the computer center located in city hall, a local distribution point and KB Homes gave us a tour of several houses.

Loma Linda is not using a PON network, but instead opted for an active Ethernet network, not unlike a corporate LAN. The backbone is capable of 10G and currently homes are able to connect up to 100M (or lower rates, all priced according to bandwith delivered.) The system is symmetrical - equal upload and download speeds.

At the current time, only Internet access and virtual LANs are supported, but the city is looking for "triple play" suppliers. Of course, anyone can now use VoIP services from any supplier.

Loma Linda requires builders to place conduit in every subdivision, create a "telecom room," and pull singlemode fiber into every house, along with tiisted pair phone lines and COAX for CATV. A change in the future will require 2" conduit for the fiber to allow pulling preterminated fibers. Each home must have a structured cabling network with voice, data and video outlets in specific locations. The city connects to the local fiber via active hardware placed in the subdivision.

The master bedroom closet in every house looks like this photo. A UPS is included to make sure services are not interrupted by power outages. Since the network is Ethernet, a media converter converts the SM fiber to Cat 5 for the home. An Ethernet switch provides for multiple connections in the home, through the patch panel on the top.

Ortronics supplied the cable hardware, Corning the Cable, Allied Telesin the networking equipment, and APC the UPSs at the city hall center and the home.

The current program supports new developments, with 4-5000 new housing units expected in the near future. This is supported by one metro fiber ring. Three other rings are planned and support for current neighborhoods will be done on a demand basis.

 

You can read about Loma Linda on their website.

 

The Loma Linda Workshop was held April 6-7, 2006 in Loma Linda, CA, sponsored by Broadband Properties Magazine..

 

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New: FOA Logo Merchandise

FOA has arranged with EmbroidMe to provide FOA logo merchandies. Identify yourself as a FOA-certified tech or instructor. The lab coats are super impressive for either cabling techs and instructors. Check out the selection.

 

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Verizon Looking For Fiber Installers In NE US

Here is the information from Verizon. Contact them at the website below for applications.

Video/Cable/Fiber Installers

US-MD-Silver Spring/Gaithersburg
US-MD-Laurel/Hanover/Annapolis/Rockville
US-MD-Capitol Heights/District Heights
US-VA-Fairfax/Falls Church/Reston
US-DC-Washington

DO YOU:

Have a desire to work in a growing industry with the leader in Fiber to the Premises technology?

Have a background in the Video/Cable Installation industry (cable splicers/installers)?

Want a Full Time opportunity to grow in a company that values diversity and a desire to succeed?

If so, Verizon is having an invitation only information session on February 11th to provide information and qualify candidates for the over 100 positions currently available in the Mid-Atlantic region.

Basic Qualifications:

Must have Video/Cable splicing/installation industry experience, basic computer literacy, and/or an equivalent education in Fiber Optics and Video/Cable.
Must successfully complete Verizon's pre-employment testing. Physical Requirements: Must meet Verizon medical standards for the job. Ability to perceive differences in wire and cable colors. Must meet weight restriction to comply with OSHA/Company safety standards. Where a Commercial Driver's License is required, the applicant must pass an alcohol and drug test.
Must have ability to remove ladder from installation truck; carry, raise, climb and descend ladder, and place ladder on truck.
A valid state driver's license is required and must have ability to drive vehicle with manual gearshift.
Background check will be conducted on all employees.

This is a Full-Time, regular position with outstanding benefits! The pay range for these positions is $569.50/week to $1,103.50/week. Wage credit may be considered based upon work experience, education, and training. Paid Training is included.

Apply online at http://www.verizon.com/fiberjobs

Verizon is an equal opportunity employer and supports workforce diversity M/F/D/V

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Job Openings

 

Title: Fiber Optic Technician (and others)

Location: Carlsbad, CA
L-3 PHOTONICS, a division of L-3 Communications, is a worldwide leader in the development of optical data link systems for defense and aerospace applications. Our 30 years of experience in developing advanced technologies have aided the company in building well-established customer relationships with branches of the U.S. Armed Forces, Government agencies and leading companies in the aircraft industry. L-3 PHOTONICS history of demonstrated growth and profitability have created outstanding career opportunities.

Responsibilities:
We are seeking an Technician who will assist in the design, assembly and test of precision fiber optic components instrumentation. Selected candidates will work along side experienced engineers and scientists who will share their diverse technical expertise. The position offers a competitive salary and benefit package, along with an excellent chance for advancement and job enrichment.

Requirements:
-Prior experience supporting electronic, mechanical, or optical systems.
-High school diploma and 2+ years of experience. Mechanical, electronic or fiber optic experience beyond high school including relevant military experience is considered a big plus.
-Hands-on experience using standard lab equipment.
-Only US citizens eligible for a security clearance will be considered.

L-3 PHOTONICS is proud to be an EEO/AA employer M/F/D/V. We maintain a drug-free workplace and perform pre-employment substance abuse testing and background checks. Applicants selected will be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.

If you are interested in learning more about career opportunities, please contact:

Dawn Dreyer
Recruiter
L-3 PHOTONICS
5957 Landau Court
Carlsbad, CA 92008
www.l-3com.com
dawn.dreyer@l-3com.com
0) 760-431-6800, ext. 3442
F) 760-931-2241

 

Position: CABLE REPAIR TECHNICIAN

Location: Onshore in Houston, Texas and offshore

No sector of the oil and gas service industry benefits greater from the advance of technology than companies operating in the geophysical services sector. On the cutting edge of that technology is VERITAS DGC Inc., offering the oil and gas industry a comprehensive suite of integrated geophysical services designed to manage exploration risk and enhance drilling and production success worldwide. These services include seismic survey planning and design, seismic data acquisition in all environments, data processing, data visualization, data interpretation, reservoir characterization, data archiving and extensive non-exclusive seismic data library surveys worldwide. With over 36 years of operating experience, more than 3,000 employees in 19 countries on six continents, Veritas is one of the world's leading providers of advanced geophysical technologies.

We currently have an opportunity for a Cable Repair Technician to work in our new onshore facility in Houston, Texas.

Responsibilities
Performs damage assessment, troubleshooting and repair of solid streamer sections and associated equipment.
Produces accurate and complete reports / logs of all repairs completed.
Maintenance of handling equipment for Solid Streamer Sections.

Qualifications and Abilities:
AS Degree or a minimum of 2 years in-depth knowledge of geophysical cable repair techniques or their manufacture (land, marine or ocean bottom).
Technical knowledge and experience with Optical, Mechanical and Electrical equipment.
Must be proficient with electrical/optical test equipment.
Experience with MS Office Suite and other desktop applications.
Excellent time management and motivational skills.
The ability and willingness to travel, if required.

Application Instructions:

Interested candidates may send their resume by email, fax or mail, to;

Trena Gipson
Human Resources
10300 Town Park Drive
Houston, TX 77072
E-Mail: vgohr@veritasdgc.com

Fax: (832) 351-8721

Visit our website at http://www.veritasdgc.com.
Veritas is an equal opportunity employer.

 

 

 

 

 

Check Recent Job Openings In Previous Issues of The FOA Newsletter

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Neat Solution To Patchcord Mess

Telescent has a unique solution to patchcord messes - cassette patchcords. They use a unique solution to storing cables with minimal stress. More info at http://www.telescent.com/simplexproduct.htm

 

 

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Order The   Fiber Optics Technician's Manual directly from Amazon.com.

Third edition of The Fiber Optic Technicians Manual Now Available!   About 15% bigger, with new or updated material on most chapter subjects, including more "hands-on information, but the price remains the same, $54.95. ISBN No. 1401896995   FOTM Lab Manual is available from Delmar (ISBN:1418028754, Price: $19.95) with tons of hands on exercises.   An Instructor's Guide to the FOTM is also available from Delmar. (ISBN: 1401897002, Price: $33.95 ) For information on the Lab Manual or Instructors Guide, contact Delmar directly at 1-800-347-7707 for further information.   Remember the CFOT Test now uses the new edition, along with the new NECA/FOA-301 Installation Standard.

 

 

Another very useful book: Eric Pearson's Successful Fiber Optic Installation - a cookbook for fiber optics!

 

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New PowerPoint Presentation In Spanish

A new PowerPoint presentation in Spanish for instructors and anyone else interested has been posted on the FOA website for free downloading. It is an explanation of fiber optics in Spanish, created by Francisco Castro Cabrera of Mexico City, who is starting up our new FOA chapter in Mexico. It is complementary to our PowerPoint introduction to fiber optics in English. Here is more information on the presentation in Spanish.

 

 

 

 

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FOA CFOT Renewals Get Free Copy of NECA/FOA Installation Standard

Every CFOT renewal will now receive a free copy of NECA 301-2004, Installing And Testing Fiber Optic Cables, produced by The FOA in cooperation with NECA (The National Electrical Contractors Association). This is an important reference document for defining the installation and testing of fiber optic cable plants in a "neat and workmanlike manner."

The FOA feels this is such an important document that we are giving a free copy (normally priced at $15) to every active CFOT when they renew their active status.

The FOA has also sent free copies to all FOA-Approved schools. The new FOA CFOT exam to be used after August, 2005, will include questions from the standard. Schools should be including information from the standard in their classes already.

 

 

 

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Tech Puzzler

How was the SMA connector polished?

 

Answer below

 

 

 

 

New Tech Topics

Does Glass "Flow"? Is it really a liquid?

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) on General Topics and Testing

Fiber Or Copper? Making decisions, overview and LANs

What Happens When You Mate Mismatched MM Fibers?

 

New PowerPoint Presentation Introduces Fiber Optics - in English or Spanish!

The FOA has created a short PowerPoint presentation that introduces you to fiber optics and talks about job opportunities in the field. It was intended for instructors to introdcue studnets to the field, but it's a good introduction for anyone. It's about 3 meg file so it takes a while to download and you need PowerPoint to view it. See http://www.thefoa.org/ppt/

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FOA Website Expands To Support Fiber Optic Educators

Instructors' Home Page And New Online Train-The-Trainer Program
The FOA has always focused on creating better educational opportunities in fiber optics - it's our charter: we're a non-profit educational organization. We've done two things recently to expand that commitment - both here on the FOA website.

We have over 120 schools and hundreds of instructors teaching at those organizations, and we'll notify them about these new web pages, but we invite any instructor interested in fiber optics to dig in and use these pages too.

First, we've created a home page for instructors where we'll cover topics just for them, like our TTT program and resources just for instructors. It's at http://www.thefoa.org/instructors/index.html

Secondly, we've put our TTT seminar online, in both PPT and PDF format at http://www.thefoa.org/instructors/index.html

 

Our online TTT program is the beginning of qualifying for the FOA CFOS/I Instructor Certification. Soon we'll have the program set up for instructors to register to begin qualifying for the certification.

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FOA Certification Top Choice

The FOA CFOT and CFOS programs continue to gain momentum in fiber optics. Over 15,000 CFOTs have been certified by over 120 schools as the FOA completed its 10th year. Since our founding in July, 1995, we have dedicated ourselves to promoting fiber optics and professionalism in fiber optics personnel, focusing on education and certification. We are continuing to add new schools and more CFOTs as users of fiber optics learn that a CFOT is the indication of a professional, well-trained fiber optic technician. Now with FTTH (fiber to the home) finally taking off, demand for CFOTs is rising and schools are responding by expanding programs rapidly.

The FOA now has approved programs at 125+ organizations, welcoming new additions like the Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Corning Cable Systems for their installation training programs and NASA's Goldstone Tracking Station. The complete list of FOA-Approved schools is at http://www.thefoa.org/foa_aprv.htm.

Your Name, CFOT - It pays to advertise!

The FOA encourages CFOTs to use the logo on their business cards, letterhead, truck or van, etc. and provides logo files on this site for that purpose. But we are also asked about how to use the CFOT or CFOS certifications. Easy, you can refer to yourself as "Your Name, CFOT" or "Your Name, CFOS/T" for example.

Feel free to use the logo and designations to promote your achievements and professionalism!

Remember To Renew Your Certification !

Remember to renew your FOA certification. All current CFOTs have a ID Card with their certification data and we keep a database of current CFOTs to answer inquiries regarding your qualifications if needed. If you forgot to renew, use the online application form or the FOA online store to renew NOW!

To Contact The FOA:

 

The Fiber Optic Association

1119 S Mission Road, # 355

Fallbrook, CA 92028

 

Office Hours 10AM-5 PM Pacific Time

Telephone: 760-451-3655

Fax: 781-207-2421

info@thefoa.org
info@thefoa.org

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Officers and Board of Directors Jim Hayes, President, Treasurer Eric Pearson, Director of Certification Tom Collins, Gateway Comm. College Bill Graham Karen Hayes   FOA Staff: Jim Hayes, newsletter, website editor Karen Hayes, Administration Administration: The FOA is managed under contract by: VDV Works LLC 1119 S Mission Road, # 355 Fallbrook, CA 92028 Telephone: 760-451-3655 Fax: 781-207-2421 email: info@vdvworks.com

FOA Board of Advisors Elias Awad, Clerk, Director of Education Tony Beam Dave Chaney F. Douglas Elliot, Past President William H. Graham Jim Hayes, President, Treasurer John Highhouse, Past President Danny S. Lyall Eric Y. Loytty Bob Mason Eric Pearson Paul Rosenberg, Past President Dan Silver Richard James Smith Dominick Tamone Tom Collins Van Ewert Elias Awad

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(C)1999-2006, The Fiber Optic Association, Inc.

Tech Puzzler: The SMA was a non-keyed connector, so the fiber ends of the ferrules could not touch or the rotation could cause scratching. The connectors were polished on a flat plate and to a tightly-specified length that would get the ferrules close but not touching. the air gap meant that reflectance was high and precluded SMAs ever getting low loss. The reflectance loss alone was about 0.3 dB See Tech Topics Connector Identifier for more info.