Fiber Optic:Cable Installation Guide

Fiber Optic Broadband

Here’s a run through of the steps that most broadband providers do when installing your fiber broadband in Singapore!

After your application for a fiber broadband has been approved, it might take up to 5 working days, depending on the provider, to activate your fiber broadband connection. The first step is setting an appointment with the fiber optic network engineers to have the fiber termination point installed. This is different from the broadband provider, therefore, there might be separate charges for this specific installation, depending on the agreement that you have signed. But usually, the first appointment for this installation should be free.

The engineer will carry out work on your telephone exchange and “green cabinet” which is the street’s cabinet that connects to a standard phone line to provide broadband. This explains the FTTC or Fiber-to-the-Cabinet concept, wherein the phone line from your home to the “green cabinet” is comprised mostly of fiber optic cable, with the last few meters being copper. However, Singapore recently has also invested in the FTTH or Fiber-to-the-Home technology which provides an end-to-end connection in fiber optic cables, without any copper leg at all, providing even faster speeds. However, not all broadband providers offer this, so you can check which one does and choose the plan that would fit your lifestyle and budget.

The next appointment that you need to make would be with your broadband provider. They will be installing the Optical Network Terminal and the equipment consisting of a wireless router and a set-top box.

Yes, you will need a new router which will usually come with your fiber broadband package. If not included in the package, you will need to avail routers that are approved and recommended by your broadband provider, to make sure that it is compatible with their configurations and to ensure optimal performance.

The broadband provider will also be wiring your router to one TV set-top box.

This service also includes the activation, testing of the broadband speed and Wi-Fi signal strength, and a demo to teach you the basics of how to operate your fiber network connection. During the installation day, you might experience downtime due to the works taking place. The process could take about 3 to 4 hours, depending on how long it will take to set up all equipment perfectly in place.

Everyone is indeed hungry for connectivity. There’s usually a limit to the number of devices that can be configured to connect to the router, so in case you need extra wiring to connect to another computer, there will most likely be applicable charges based on the length of the wires. In case you need to connect more gadgets wirelessly to your router, there could also be additional charges per device. You have to state these extra devices to your broadband provider beforehand so that the installers would be able to bring with them whatever is needed, saving you the hassle of setting up another appointment with them.

To set up broadband connectivity in all the rooms of your home, you may need to consider setting up a home structured cabling. This is setting up the wires of data points in a way that allows multiple devices to have broadband connectivity in different areas of your home. Firstly, you have to determine the number of data points needed in each room. It could be behind a television, a PC, or a game console. The most efficient way of running the cables is around the edges of the ceiling. However, setting up these wires is most ideal while renovating your home, to make sure that these are placed safely and securely, and so that they can be concealed and not an eyesore.

Wi-Fi networks are prone to congestion because of other networks nearby. To enhance the connectivity of handheld devices at your home that require Wi-Fi connections, a dual-band wireless modem might help as it has the ability to transmit 2 Wi-Fi signals in one device, in 2.4Ghz and 5.0Ghz, enabling the user to switch to the network that is less congested.

Another device that can be used to amplify Wi-Fi in your home is an access point device, which works to echo and extend the Wi-Fi signals across all hindrances such as walls and doors.

These are all just basic guidelines to give you an idea on how fiber optic cables are installed, and would totally vary among fiber broadband providers in Singapore. Take note that you must discuss everything with your broadband provider beforehand, which includes stating how many devices need wired and wireless connections, to determine if you’ll be needing extra wires or equipment.

This is to avoid setting up another appointment should you find the need to add several devices at the last minute. Also, if there are any other concerns that may arise during installation, do not hesitate to ask the installers about the process and coordinate with them on how you’d like your cables to be set up. Fiber broadband in Singapore has reached new heights and it’s indeed exciting to gain that advantage and be part of that revolution!