Tech Topics: New "Installation" Tech Bulletin. See Tech Topics Below. Product News: Corning promotions, another cleaning kit. See "Product News" Below Worth Reading: Lennie On OTDRs. See "Worth Reading" below
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Looking For a FOA-Certified Fiber Optic Installer? Use the FOA Installer Database Free! Almost 1000 CFOT's listed. CFOT's register online to create your listing. |
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New Pemises Cabling Certification  The FOA has added a new certification for our schools and current CFOTs, CPCT for "Certified Premises Cablilng Technician."
Design certification training is starting at FOA-approved schools. Fiber Optic Lighting  The FOA generally focuses on communications fiber optics but we get lots of questions on lighting. So we've created a Tech Topics Tutorial on Fiber Optic Lighting to inform those interested about using fiber for lighting, how it works and some advice on what can be done. If you are interested in using fiber for lighting, installing it or just becoming knowledgeable about another fiber optic application, read this. Sneak Preview  What's this all about? Well, first of all, the FOA has kept it's website simple - no fancy graphics, javascripts, cookies, etc. so it turns out most of our Tech Topics are easily read on a web-enabled mobile device like this iPhone. That means that if you are looking for some info on fiber, link to http://www.thefoa.org/tech/ on your portable device and you may find the answer. And if you are a current CFOT or student at a FOA-Approved school, you'll soon have the largest reference website about fiber optics at your disposal - from your computer or web-enabled mobile device. Stay tuned!
Worth Reading: Lennie On OTDRs: For a dozen years now, Lennie Lightwave's Guide To Fiber Optics has been the most popular website for those getting started in fiber optics or wanting to look up some basic information. Now Lennie has added a new "virtual hands-on" tutorial on using OTDRs, based on the VDV Works OTDR simulator. Not only will it help you understand how to use an OTDR properly (not just turn it on and hit autotest, which may be your downfall!) but you can download a demo of the OTDR Simulator to try it yourself. FOLS latest newsletter. The latest news from FOLS including a standards update and access to their premises cabling cost model. http://archive.constantcontact.com/fs084/1101864571210/archive/1102123447786.html What's the biggest security problem most organizations face? The answer might surprise some of you - it's disgruntled employees. Read "San Francisco Case Shows Vulnerability Of Data Networks" to see what we mean. New Tech Bulletin On Fiber Optic Installation The FOA has always used the NECA/FOA-301 standard Installing And Testing Fiber Optic Cables as its reference guide for CFOT certification and of course a reference for installers in the field. Requests for a similar reference document online led to the creation of an FOA Tech Bulletin on Installing Fiber Optic Cable Plants. It's a small PDF file so it's quick to download and print. We think you'll find this one most useful. Download It Now.
Corning "Summer of Value" Promotion Corning is offering a special promotion for buyers of Unicam kits, Optical Testers and OptiSplice Fusion Splicers. Buy a Unicam kit and get free connectors, testers and get a free cleaning kit and a splicer and get a splicing tool kit. Ask your Corning rep or distributor for details. Since clean fiber optic connectors are extremely important, we want to bring another cleaning kit to your attention. Fiber Solutions Inc. is proud to announce a new all-in-one Fiber Optic Cleaning Kit:  CS-CKIM-CÅ®$85.00 Includes: (1) QbE Cleaning Platform (1) Electro-Wash Precision ES810 Cleaner (1) 2.5mm Foam Fiber Optic Swabs (1) Lint Free Wipes 6704F (5) Electro-Wash MX Universal Cleaner Wipes CP421 (1) Set of Detailed Instructions (1) Rugged Bag with Carabiner Attachment Have you read the FOA Tech Topics on Cleaning? More links on cleaning: Cleantex Alco Pads
It's mostly about Verizon, as the stumbling economy has many private companies and municipalities reluctant to invest in long term projects.
Verizon Strikes Deal to Bring Fios Service to the District of Columbia: Washington Post, 8/8/08 Verizon ramping up FiOS build out By Mike Robuck, CedMagazine.com - June 11, 2008 Despite the sluggish economy, Verizon isn‚t backing off of the gas pedal when it comes to building out its fiber optic FiOS network. Verizon plans on having FiOS in more than its previously stated goal of 18 million homes by the end of 2010, according to Reuters. Verizon President and COO Denny Strigl said that the company would continue to expand its FiOS network to the tune of more than $20 billion, while doing so at a faster rate than the original plan called for. Verizon‚s FiOS rollout was initially slower than expected due to a lack of equipment, such as set-top boxes, as well as the regulatory approval process in the states where the telco wanted to rollout the triple-play service.
From the Philly.com web journal. http://www.philly.com/philly/business/15917457.html
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Digging Safely 
The old story (not a joke!) about the most likely fiber optic communications system failure being caused by "backhoe fade" reminds us that digging safely is vitally important. The risk is not just interrupting communications, but the life-threatening risk of digging up high voltage or gas lines. There is a website called "Common Ground Alliance" that focuses directly on this issue. Here is how they describe themselves:
Of special interest is their "Best Practices" Manual, available for downloading. If you do OSP installs, please get yourself a copy and read it. http://www.commongroundalliance.com/ There is a new toll-free "call before you dig" number: 811 See www.call811.com for more information National Fiber Optic Protection Summit: By the "811" group. March, 2008 in Vegas.
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Manufacturing Engineer, MIL Fiber Optics (8/08) Linden Photonics is a small company that develops packaging and cable technology. Specializing in fiber optics and using novel extrusion/molding techniques for thermoplastics, Linden focuses on military and other harsh environment markets. We are looking for a part time manufacturing engineer to help set up our in-house manufacturing and quality procedures as well as assist in the design/set-up/and usage of specialized in-house equipment related to optical technology and cable winding and spooling. The ideal candidate will have a mix of manufacturing and mechanical experience. Experience with ISO type record keeping is desired and fiber optics experience is a plus. 5 to 10 years experience in manufacturing and a BS in an engineering or equivalent technical degree is desired. For more information on Linden Photonics, check us out on the web at <http://www.LindenPhotonics.com>www.LindenPhotonics.com Please send resumes to Stephen O’Riorden, Director of Business Development at <mailto:so@lindenphotonics.com>so@lindenphotonics.com Best regards, Stephen O'Riorden Director of Business Development Linden Photonics, Inc. so@lindenphotonics.com c:978-799-1719 Fiber Optic Instructors (7/08) Can You Teach? Would you like to? Go to the "Teaching Opportunity " on the BDI DataLynk,LLC Web Site or call: 512-785-9024 for more information. Bob Ballard, RCDD, CFOI BDI DataLynk, LLC www.bdidatalynk.com Ph: 512-785-9024 Product Marketing Manager-Fiber Optic Unit (7/08) Industry: Technology / Telecommunications / Software Compensation: $100-125K Geography: Northeast U.S. Preference given to someone who has recently worked in product marketing for a company making fiber optic cable, connectors or patchcords. Responsibilities Position open for a Product Marketing Manger for our Fiber Optic product line. Reporting to the VP/General Manager, the Product Marketing Manager is responsible for managing the P&L for the Fiber business. This manager is responsible for the product portfolio, new product development, pricing, go-to-market strategies, and marketing communications. Requirements Key responsibilities include: Business Planning and Execution - Lead the development and implementation of a 3-year strategic product-marketing plan for the Fiber Optic product line. Effectively communicate and lead the implementation of this strategy throughout the organization. Product Portfolio Management and Execution - Lead development of a 3 year product roadmap that optimizes Quality, Delivery, Cost and Innovation while addressing key solution gaps outlined in the Market plans through internal product development, partnering and/or acquisitions. - Coordinate development of future innovative products and technologies in line with strategic goals. Marketing Communication – Increase sales and the product line through innovative integrated Marketing, PR and advertising plans. Channel / Customer Business Development - Work with sales team to develop integrated business plans and sales strategies that are aligned with the annual and 3 year plans. - Lead the development of price targets and product positioning. Specific requirements for this position include: · Senior level product marketing fiber optic experience. · Process and measurement oriented · Business or Technical undergraduate degree · MBA is preferred Other They should have experience: 1) Analyzing the product line income statement, analyzing margin mix, analyzing channels to markets and customers, analyzing pricing, recommending and taking actions as needed to maximize margins and revenue. 2) Product Road mapping: Long-term product planning - where we take the products, which markets, pricing, etc. including the business case for new products and recommendations for product lifecycle. 3) Developing business case for new products or investment going into new markets 4) Marketing Communications 5) Control of all pricing including in-depth, sophisticated modeling, competitor analysis, and positioning. Contact: Celeste Christ Vice-President/Owner Amber Systems Group, LLC 104 S. Main St. Suite 513 Fond du Lac, WI 54935 920-322-9011 Phone 920-3229013 Fax celeste@ambersystemsgroup.com Account Manager, Optical Fibers Location: Open Reports To: Director Marketing and Sales Position Goals: Provide direct sales representation and technical assistance, as related to the Company’s Specialty Optical Fibers worldwide Major Duties and Responsibilities: Present and sell company products and services to current and potential customers through customer visits and direct customer interaction Prepare action plans and schedules to identify specific targets and to project the number of contacts to be made Follow up on new leads and referrals resulting from field activity, trade shows, advertisements, etc. Identify sales prospects and contact these and other accounts as assigned Prepare presentations, proposals and sales contracts Maintain current knowledge of all products, including technology, pricing, and sales strategies, and able to quote, close, process and support a sale as part of the sales team Establish and maintain current customer and potential customer relationships Prepare paperwork to activate and maintain contract services Manage account services through quality checks and other follow-up Identify and resolve customer concerns Prepare a variety of status reports, including activity, closings, follow-up, and adherence to goals Communicate new product and market opportunities, special developments, information, or feedback gathered through field activity to appropriate company staff Coordinate company staff to accomplish the work required to close sales Other duties as assigned Additional Responsibilities: Participate in marketing events such as seminars, trade shows, and telemarketing events Follow-up for collection or payment Coordinate shipping schedules and delivery of products and services Education and Required Skills: Four (4) year degree, preferably in Engineering At least Five (5) years direct experience in sales of fiber optics, optoelectronics or photonics Self motivator with the ability to plan, meet deadlines and work symbiotically with peers, customers and supervisors Compensation and Benefits: Competitive base salary plus commission/bonus Medical and dental Long term disability Life insurance 401K participation with company match Interested applicants may send their resume to: jpagano@fiberguide.com http://www.fiberguide.com Senior Process Engineer- ADC Corp. (7/08) LOCATION: Bennington, VT ABOUT THE COMPANY: ADC provides the network infrastructure equipment and professional services needed to deliver voice, video, Internet and data communications around the world. Wireline, wireless, cable, enterprise and broadcast network operators rely on ADC‚ADC's offerings to deliver bandwidth intensive, high-speed services to residential, business and mobile subscribers. ADC (NASDAQ: ADCT) has sales into more than 140 countries. JOB DESCRIPTION: Provide technical support to the manufacturing operation that enhances quality, improves delivery, and reduces costs through product/process improvement, operator training, equipment selection/installation, and product development. PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES: Ensure existing and new products can be manufactured on robust and cost-effective processes by optimizing process settings, tooling, and procedures. Monitor equipment, and work with vendors to reduce costs. Troubleshoot and resolve short term and long term manufacturing problems that impede quality or cost effectiveness. Develop and administer training on new and existing equipment and products for manufacturing personnel to ensure product/ process consistency. Identify, document, and effectively communicate all critical process parameters, tooling, and materials. Development and maintain documentation. Manage capital projects and provide technical support for the specification, design, purchase, installation, and commissioning of new equipment, retrofits, and tooling. Manage Product Development projects as assigned to ensure successful release of commercial products in terms of reliability, cost, and manufacturing. Work with vendors, Marketing, and Operating personnel, Product Management, Sales and/or Customers to meet product requirements. Develop, improve and implement production/processing methods and business processes that positively impact cost, quality and safety objectives. Initiate and develop Lean process improvements. Lead and participate in constructive discussions with management and operating personnel regarding quality/ process problems, cost reduction projects, and training issues. Provide reports as needed. Ability to influence cross-functionally. REQUIREMENTS: Four Year Degree in Engineering ME/MET, IE/IET ISO9001:2000 knowledge, ERP familiarity, MS Suite of products, TL9000 QMS Four-year engineering degree and 7+ years of related process engineering experience in a cable manufacturing environment. Specific experience in polymer extrusion and optical fiber cable is desired Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Demonstrated teamwork, cooperation skills. Ability to read, analyze, and interpret general business periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures, or governmental regulations- respond to questions. Ability to utilize logical and scientific thinking in a variety of circumstances. Focus on continuous quality improvement. Ability to understand and follow all safety guidelines. Flexibility to changing priorities, sensitivity to others feelings, viewpoints. Ability to take calculated risks. Travel up to 5% possible. REASONS TO WORK FOR ADC: We‚re Growing Competitive Compensation and Benefits Opportunities for Advancement Fast-Paced and High Energy Global Company Innovative Products and Technology We Give Back to the Community Committed to Customer, Quality, Innovation, Teamwork and Integrity BENEFITS: INSURANCE: Health and Dental is effective the first day of employment PAID TIME OFF (PTO): 20 days for Full-Time, 10 days for Part-Time PAID HOLIDAYS: 8 days with floating holidays BASIC LIFE INSURANCE: Two times your base annual earnings TUITION REIMBURSEMENT: $5,250 per calendar year of eligible expenses 401K MATCH PLAN EMPLOYEE INCENTIVE PLAN HOW TO APPLY: Apply directly on-line at <http://www.adc.com/careers> ADC is an Equal Opportunity Employer Contractors For "On-Call Restoration" (6/08) I am in need of at the present time is an individual that can assist my clients as needed. He or she could be called at any time, and there is a 4 hr response time. We’ll pay a decent rate along with a Truck Roll Allowance for the drive. Some of these locations could be up to 200 miles away, but we try to find technicians as close to the location as possible. George L. Smith, Technical Recruiter Intellys Corporation 621 W. College Pkwy Grapevine, TX 76051 Office: 972-929-9000 ext. 513 Toll Free: 877-468-3559 Fax: 817-796-1208 <http://www.Intellys.com> Splicers Needed in Canada (6/08) Need 2 - 4 splicers immediately Job is in Calgary ( A Telus Job) Way paid out to the job. Air Fare home every 8 weeks Truck and tools supplied $35.00 per Hr + overtime $175 per day living allowance Contact Gord Smith, Phone: 416-678-7235 CERTIFIED NETWORK INSTALLERS, STRUCTURED CABLING (6/08) Looking for two individuals or two staff from a private firm for inside premise (ISP) install of CAT6 and Fiber Optic cables. The primary site is a large data center with adjacent offices, all currently under construction. Desire individuals with BICSI or FOA certifications, industry certifications or equivalent experience. Experience with testing CAT5/6 and Fiber desired. This will be a six-month assignment in a safe and friendly foreign country with living conditions equal to the US. All travel and relocation expenses paid. Housing in two-bedroom furnished townhouse close to work site. Cell phone, Internet, cable TV, utilities, medical insurance and vehicle provided. Salary in US dollars with a bonus at completion of project. Employer is a large multinational design and build firm. Desire US installation and NEC code experience. Please send contact information along with resume or qualifications to: Kevin Love, <mailto:admin@aasda.com>admin@aasda.com
Careers at Verizon: https://www22.verizon.com/about/careers/careers_index.html
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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! |
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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. You must be a current FOA member and CFOT to participate in our online database of installers, contractors, technicians and consultants. If you forgot to renew, use the online application form to renew NOW! |
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JDSU offers a free download of
their Testing Guide from the Lightwave website. This is one great book
which explains some basic fiber technology, but the real value is the
last half which deals with OTDR testing. Not only does it give the
usual info, but it covers important topics like measurement
uncertainties and anomolies like ghosts and gainers. 
Now In Spanish: FOA Textbook
& Text For FOA Advanced Certifications 
FOA Logo Merchandise
