18/02/2026
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Advanced Optical Fibre Cable Installation, Splicing & Testing on Power Routes Training Course
This course represents the most comprehensive training offered by Prolink Fiber academy encompassing all feasible methods for deploying fibre cables on both overhead power routes and underground installations. Project management is also addressed, as many utilities engage contractors and subcontractors to perform specialized tasks within their networks.
The latest trend in the industry involves bringing fibre as close as possible to the end-user. Consequently, a module on FTTX (Fibre to the home, business, building, campus, etc.) is incorporated into the course content, as power utilities may potentially become service providers given their extensive networks along power routes. Students will have the opportunity to examine and familiarize themselves with various product samples used in service deployment.
THEORETICAL CONTENT
Optical Fibre Theory and Manufacturing
(Includes limiting factors, dispersion types in fibre, amplification methods, Multimode and Single-mode fibre, MCVD, PCVD, OVD, and VAD manufacturing processes)
Optical Fibre System and Switching Fundamentals
(Includes elements of a communication link, amplification methods on fibres, fundamentals of WDM, TDM, and DWDM, optical switching methods, power budget calculations)
Optical Fibre Cable Theory, Manufacturing, and Type Testing
(Covers all underground and overhead cable types, type testing to specifications, electrical degradation on overhead fibre cables, cable parameters needed to specify ADSS and OPGW cable types).
Installation of Optical Fibre Cables in Underground and Overhead Power Routes
(Covers hauling into ducts, ploughing-in, blowing into sub-ducts and micro-ducts, stringing on overhead routes of ADSS, OPGW, and ADLASH. Reviews international specifications and installation practices, such as Corning Installation Instructions, and highlights key considerations during and after installations for link acceptance sign-off, including hardware fitment, bend radii of cables, down lead clamp fitment, splice closure fitment, and maintenance inspections on links).
Safety Precautions on Overhead Installations
Presents and discusses general safety measures when working in proximity to power lines.
Fusion Splicing, Termination, and Acceptance Testing
(Theoretical instruction on fusion splicing and OTDR testing, with practical experience in building a route in our laboratory, analyzing all splices, rectifying if necessary, and conducting acceptance testing on the link. Practical splice and termination panel preparation are included, with specific emphasis on ADSS, ADLASH, and OPGW cable preparation, correct entry into splice closures and routing in splice cassettes, and routine maintenance testing on spare fibres in links).
Project Management on Telecommunication Cable Installation Projects
(Addresses the tendering/contracting process, identifies specific loopholes in tenders and project ex*****on, outlines generic project phases, discusses reasons for project failures, and provides strategies to identify when a project is experiencing difficulties).
FTTX Fibre to the Premises (house, business, office, curb, etc.)
(Examines current fibre network rollouts closer to the client, including passive and active networks, power budget, materials used, and splicing and testing of FTTX networks).
PRACTICAL TRAINING
All training aligns with the Eskom document ETSP 1576, Optical Fibre Training Specification.
In the splicing practical, participants will perform a 48F Tyco conventional fibre splice plus panel, conduct bi-directional OTDR and light source power meter testing on the link and on a 72km fibre link. All splicing will be performed using Fujikura splice machines, and testing will be conducted with AFL and EXFO test equipment. Students will also gain exposure to PON Network testing utilizing the iOLM technology from EXFO.
They will learn how to prepare an OPGW stainless steel closure to ensure proper closure preparation.
Students will be evaluated during the practical session based on their understanding and participation in the activities. Each participant must demonstrate proficiency in operating a splice machine and performing acceptance testing on a fibre link using AFL and EXFO test equipment.
EVALUATION
On the final day, all students will undertake a written examination covering the theory and practice learned over the two-week course. Evaluations will be marked immediately, and successful participants will receive an accredited certificate. The practical score will contribute to a final percentage, with 80% required for success. Participants scoring below 80% will receive a certificate confirming course attendance.
OUTCOMES
Students will be equipped to:
- Supervise and perform fibre cable installations (overhead and underground)
- Identify the correct installation equipment
- Work with various types of fibre cables
- Operate different manufacturers' splicing machines
- Recognize different fibre types
- Familiarize themselves with popular splice closures and termination cabinets used in the industry
- Differentiate between various connector types
- Conduct acceptance testing of fibre links
The course duration is two weeks, commencing on a Monday morning and concluding the following Friday morning
We cover all fibre types used by current telecommunications companies, analyze the Data Sheets provided by manufacturers, and based on this, students will learn why different fibre specifications are employed by operators. Please note that upon course completion, students must gain practical workplace experience and attend follow-up courses to specialize in specific disciplines of optical fibre installations.
The cost will be determined by volume and will include all course materials, light lunch, and daily tea/coffee, excluding accommodation, breakfast, dinner, and transport.
Venue: PROLINK FIBER ACADEMY
PROLINK OFFICES
Nansana Kyebando Prolink Lane
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