How do I become fiber optic certified?

 how to become a fiber optic technician

The future of the internet is fiber optic. The demand for bandwidth and internet access to remote areas continues to soar so will the need for qualified technicians to install these cables. However, you may be confused about how much technical proficiency and certifications are required to attain a position in this growing sector of the telecommunications industry. While a background in coaxial cabling may be a good start in this field, in many ways it is just like starting over with equipment that requires a greater degree of care and completely distinct standards of installation.

What Do Fiber Optics Technicians Do?

These professionals are responsible for the installation and repair of fiber optic cables, creating and maintaining high-speed communications. Job duties include laying cable lines, testing connections, and troubleshooting malfunctioning equipment. Challenges of this profession may include working with electronics and construction equipment in inclement weather as well as working at great heights or in confined spaces. It is not an entry-level position and requires a high degree of technical expertise and understanding of communications and signal flow.

A Growing Field With Limitless Opportunity

The largest telecommunications companies are currently in a state of aggressive expansion of fiber optic networks. Telecom giants such as AT&T and Comcast are in the midst of a virtual bonanza in their regional competitions while Google Fiber seeks to transform economically troubled areas into fully-connected "gig cities" to attract technical professionals and services. The possibilities are intriguing, but this translates to a once in a lifetime financial opportunity for those with the most qualified personnel.

Basic Qualifications For Fiber Optics Technicians

A fiber optics technician needs to possess the following qualifications

• Technical knowledge of communications networks
• Troubleshooting and mechanical skills
• Fundamental knowledge of computers and associated electronic systems
• Skill with a variety of hand tools and power tools
• Ability to operate large equipment
• May need to possess a commercial driver's license

Educational Requirements for Fiber Optics Technicians

While some opportunities exist for those with a high school diploma to learn this trade in an apprenticeship program or in the military, for those choose not to take this route, other paths exist. The most efficient way to enter this job field is a professional technical preparation course that focuses on getting students ready to attain the certifications required of all fiber optics technicians.

Certification Programs

Certificate programs in broadband cable and technology can be completed relatively quickly. A typical program consists of around 25 credit hours, less than half of the requirement for an associates degree. These courses include practical demonstrations of necessary skills such as testing and maintenance of cables, introductions to standard principles of communications, and other technical skills required for successful installation of communications equipment.

The certifications earned from these programs include the following certificates:

• Certified Fiber Optics Technician (FOT)
• Certified Fiber Optics Designer (FOD)
• Data Cabling Installer Certification (DCIC)
• Certified Military Fiber Optics Installation Professional (MFOI)

Which certification is best for an employee depends upon the technical position that they are applying for but in general, a Certified Fiber Optics Technician (FOT) is a great entry certification for starting techs. It has a prerequisite of Electronics Technicians Association (ETA) FOI certification but is the fundamental building block of a career in a fiber optics installation and maintenance career. The course includes the certification exam on the last day of the course and is a streamlined way of attaining certification.

Are you interested in learning more about fiber optic technician certifications for your employees? Infotec is your one-stop shop for all of your technical certification needs. Contact us today for more information.

How do you become a Certified Fiber Optic Technician?

 certified fiber optic technician

Course Description:

This introductory 3-day fiber optic tech course is designed for anyone interested in becoming a Certified Fiber Optic Technician. This Fiber Optic Training combines theory and 85% hands-on activities to prepare the student to take the CFOT (Certified Fiber Optic Technician) test that is sanctioned by the FOA (Fiber Optics Association) and given and graded the final class day. This course also introduces the student to industry standards governing FTTD (Fiber To The Desk), FTTH (Fiber To The Home), and Distribution Cabling. Students will learn how to identify fiber types, recognize various connectors used in fiber installation; and install, terminate, splice, and properly test installed fiber cable to existing standards.

This program explores the history and future of fiber optics and fiber optics capabilities, and basic testing and troubleshooting. Anyone interested in becoming a Certified Fiber Optics Technician should attend this class. Course fee includes study materials, exam fees, and Text Book.

The student must pass both the written and hands on exams to successfully pass this course. Course fee includes all books study materials, exams and 1-year membership to the FOA.

This introductory in-person 3-day fiber optics course is designed for anyone interested in learning basic fiber optic networking and becoming a Certified Fiber Optic Technician.

This program combines theory and 85% hands-on activities to prepare the student to take the CFOT (Certified Fiber Optics Technician) test that is sanctioned by the FOA (Fiber Optics Association) and given and graded the final class day.

This course also introduces the student to industry standards governing FTTD (Fiber To The Desk), FTTH (Fiber To The Home, LAN/WAN fiber networks, and further introduces the student to basic fusion and mechanical splicing. Students will learn how to identify fiber types, recognize various connectors used in fiber installation; and install, terminate, splice, and properly test installed fiber cable to existing standards. This program explores the history and future of fiber optics and fiber optics capabilities, and cost of installation.

Standards covered: NECA/FOA-301-2004, EIA/TIA 568-B.3, ANSI/TIA/EIA 607-A, and NEC Article 770-50, anyone interested in becoming a Certified Fiber Optics Technician should attend this class.

Prerequisite: Students MUST have successfully passed the basic fiber optic training course, (CFOT) within the preceding 12 months or have renewed their FOA membership within that time frame prior to attending the (CFOS/T), (CFOS/S), (CFOS/O) and/or the (CFOS/H) FOA Specialist courses offered by BDI Datalynk at UCF. There are no exceptions. Students are encouraged to register for all courses being offered at the campus with the understanding that the CFOT course must be successfully completed prior to attending any of the other subsequent courses.

Course Objective: Program prepares the student to take the (CFOT) exam given and graded at the end of class. Student will be able to effectively and efficiently install, terminate, and test multi-mode or single-mode fiber optic networks to existing standards. Students will demonstrate the ability to build and test a fiber optic LAN network.

Course Assessment: Along with chapter tests, class discussions, and substantial hands-on activities, the CFOT exam is given and graded at the end of the class. Students will receive a Certificate of Completion upon successful completion of the program.

https://www.fieldengineer.com/skills/fiber-optics-technician

Fiber Optic Infrastructure Specialist

 fiber optic technician jobs

Fiber optics technicians work with the optical fibers and cables used in transmitting communications data. Depending on the area of employment, technicians splice fibers, fuse fibers together, and install fiber cables beneath the ground and in buildings. These technicians work for telecommunications and cable companies, and other businesses involved in telecommunications. The U.S. Department of Labor reports that approximately 122,700 telecommunications line installers and repairers, including fiber optics technicians, are employed in the United States.

This course is for anyone involved in fiber optic communications from those specifying and designing through to actual installation. It has been designed to ensure that the student understands the emerging and ever increasing market for fiber optic communications, how fiber transmission 'works' and all the components involved.

Pre-requisite experience:

No pre-requisite experience is required to take this course as the subjects covered will be of interest to anyone working with optical fiber in any aspect.

Objectives:

• Understand the market trends and development for fiber optics which is now encroaching into many aspects of our lives
• Investigate fiber transmission theory
• Look at the different fiber types and assess suitability for the types of applications run over them
• Discover the various manufacturing processes involved
• Make informative decisions on cable design and alternative construction methods to suit various environments
• Look at connector types  
• Administration solutions such as fiber shelves, fiber polarity and duplex
• Data Center cabling methods and high density fiber management
• Look at the ODN networks appearing on our streets and FTTx to meet the increasing demand for faster broadband speeds
• Discuss the importance of cleanliness and how to inspect fibers connectors

Key Topics:

• Market developments - Intelligent Buildings - Data Centers – FTTx, FTTA, FTTH
• Transmission Theory - Attenuation - Dispersion - Modal Delay
• Fiber Types - Manufacturing Processes - Fiber Types and Classes - Wavelengths - WDM Technologies - Light sources, Lasers & LEDS - DMD
• Fiber Cable Design and Construction - Cable Types - Indoor and Outdoor
• Connectors, LC, SC, APC, MPO, Polished Stub Connectors
• Cable Design and Installation – Good installation practices
• Fiber - Duplex Administration
• Data Center – Fiber Cabling, MPO Connectivity & High-density Fiber Management
• OSP – ODN's – FTTx architecture- hardened fiber terminals- Drop Cables-MDU cabling
• Testing & Inspection – How to test and what to look for

How will I learn?

You will study this course online in a self-paced format. The course is made up of a number of webcast lessons and online multiple-choice assessments giving immediate feedback. The course content is supplemented by some videos and PDF support material. It is highly recommended that the student augment their learning with real world design and installation experience, preferably with the help experienced colleagues or mentors.

Successful completion will require:

Any level of pass in the accumulative overall assessment score.

Is this the right course for me?

If you have an interest in fiber optics in communication networks, specification, termination, cabling in or between buildings in any capacity and need to understand the principals, then this course is for you. Even if you are unlikely to ever physically do any practical work in your current job role, understanding what is involved is also very important to help assess timings in a project.

This course is part of the Infrastructure Specialist Certification.

By completing this course you will achieve the Fiber Optic Infrastructure Specialist (CFOIS) certification. If you are a member of a CommScope Partner you’ll be entered on the CommScope certification database and a badge is available to you via the Infrastructure Academy App.

Is Computer Engineering a good career?

 what does a computer engineer do

Yeah, computer engineering is a fabulous career option for a bright career. It offers too many job opportunities such as development, designing, digital marketing, IT manager, etc. So as per my opinion, it is a phenomenal way to make a fantastic career. IT always has a good scope.

Well, It can be yes if you are good at the subject and are interested in the field. The sole purpose of the computer engineers is to match the hardware and software for the requirements. They have to test, design the systems and develop the memory devices or processors. All of the systems and physical components are to be properly manufactured and help in the safe and effective running of the digital worlds. Computer engineering is much preferred by the students because of the following reasons:

Multiple job opportunities- since everything being now relied on the technology, computer engineers have a broad and flexible range of job opportunities. Gradutaes with computer engineering have the multiple disciplines to choose from for the jobs like they can go in: robotics, artificial intelligence, electronics, embedded architecture as well.

High paying jobs- Computer engineers also do get high pay jobs and have the highest earning potentials.Easy and satisfied jobs- The most of the jobs are easy desk job so they do not have to face the harsh climates. Also the jobs are satisfying because of the challenges and the work in meaningful. Their work caExtra facilities- most of the top reputed companies provide their employees a great sort of other benefits as well. Like the healthcare, transportation and communications etc.n help to make a difference in the lives of people.

for more: click on what does a computer engineer do

New work – There is always something new everyday that they learn. As technology is always advancing, so the work is not always the monotonous and computer engineers are the great problem solvers. There are infinite solutions to try for a single problem.

Gateway Education offers a wide range of technical and professional courses that help the students in making their career shine. We have colleges and institutes that have a great staff of trainers and faculty that are providing students with the best of their knowledge and experience and this provides opportunities to the students to take their career to new heights. Also, our placement cell is best among the other colleges that provide the students to get placed in top MNCs. For more information and details kindly visit the official website of Gateway Education.

Which is better software engineering or computer science?

 difference between computer science and software engineering

A quick overview of these two majors

• Computer Science is the study of how computers work, mostly from the theoretical and mathematical perspective.
• You should choose Computer Science if you like math, logic, or if you want to get into a specialized field in CS such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, security, or graphics.
• Software Engineering is the study of how software systems are built, including topics such as project management, quality assurance, and software testing.
• You should choose Software Engineering if you are more interested in the hands-on approach, and if you want to learn the overall life cycle of how software is built and maintained.
• Both Computer Science and Software Engineering teach fundamentals of programming and computer science, so you can choose either one to become a software developer.

To understand the difference between Computer Science and Software Engineering majors, let’s take a look at their respective curriculum at University of Waterloo in Canada.

I chose University of Waterloo for this because it has one of the best computer science programs in North America.

Job prospects

Let’s first compare the kinds of jobs and internships you can get through each program.

Thankfully, University of Waterloo’s website provides several examples.

For each major, here are some of the titles alumni hold, and where they work:

Computer Science

• Web Developer/Architect, The Steele Group
• Programmer, Harry Rosen Inc.
• Mobile/Cloud Developer, Clearbridge Associates Limited
• Software Engineering, General Dynamics Canada
• Software Development Engineering, Microsoft
• Agile Engineer, Pivotal Labs
• Business Analyst, Canadian Tire Corporation
• Developer Advocate, Google
• Product Manager, Dropbox

Software Engineering

• Software Developer, Tagged Inc
• Software Developer, IBM Canada
• Software Manager, Arius Software Corporation
• Software Engineer, VistaPrint USA
• Software Engineer, Harris Corporation
• Software Developer, Accenture Inc.
• Technical Product Manager — Software Design & Development, NexJ Systems Inc
• Consultant, PureFacts Financial Solutions
• Implementation Consultant, Desire2Learn

As you can see, there isn’t a huge difference between the types of jobs you can get.

The most common job graduates get after earning their Computer Science or Software Engineering degree is Software Developer or Software Engineer.

There are other related options as well, such as Product Manager, QA Analyst, and Technology Consultant. Your options will depend on your specific skill set.

First-year courses:

Now, let’s take a look at each program’s required courses. Let’s first compare some of the courses you’d need to take in your first year.

Computer Science

• CS 135 — Designing Functional Programs
• CS 136 — Algorithm Design and Data Abstraction
• MATH 135 — Algebra
• MATH 136 — Linear Algebra 1
• MATH 137 — Calculus 1
• MATH 138 — Calculus 2
• Plus a few electives

Software Engineering

• CS 137 — Programming Principles
• CS 138 — Data Abstraction and Implementation
• MATH 115 — Linear Algebra for Engineering
• MATH 117 — Calculus 1 for Engineering
• MATH 119 — Calculus 2 for Engineering
• MATH 135 — Algebra for Honours Mathematics
• ECE 105 — Physics of Electrical Engineering 1
• ECE 106 — Electricity and Magnetism
• ECE 124 — Digital Circuits and Systems
• ECE 140 — Linear Circuits
• SE 101 — Methods of Software Engineering

As you can see, the first year courses are fairly similar as well. They both cover a few fundamental computer science courses, and a few math courses in linear algebra and calculus.

What's the difference between CS and CE?

 computer science vs engineering

With salaries and workforce demand for STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) graduates at an all-time high, two red-hot majors that prospective students must be familiar with are Computer Science and Computer Engineering. Unfortunately, due to overlapping coursework and the wide leeway schools have in developing IT curricula, many prospects are confused about what these programs entail.

What's the difference between CS and CE?

Both majors are heavy in theory and practical application, which is vital for building a strong knowledge base for a range of IT careers, however, the key difference is that computer science focuses on software, while computer engineering is more about the hardware.

Use this side-by-side comparison for a deeper look at the CS and CE majors:

Computer Science Major

Core Curriculum:

• Advanced Software Development
• Computational Problem-Solving
• Data Structures and Algorithms
• Operating System (OS) Design
• Advanced Mathematics inc. Calculus, Logic, Probability and Algebra
• User Interface/Experience (UI/UX) Design
• Human-Computer Interaction (HCI)
• Data Security/Defensive Programming

Marketable Courses & Concentrations:

• Mobile Application Development
• Data Mining and Business Intelligence
• Web and Multimedia Design
• Digital Security/Cryptography
• Cloud Computing
• Software Testing
• Virtualization
• Game Theory

Popular Career Paths:

• Software Engineer
• Mobile App Developer
• UI/UX Designer
• Computer Scientist
• Wed Designer
• Data Scientist
• Systems Analyst

Avg. Starting Salary:

• $79,077 per year (U.S.)

Computer Engineering Major

Core Curriculum:

• Electronic Circuit Design
• Principles of Modern Physics
• Artificial Intelligence & Robotics
• Essential Software Development
• Computer Architecture and Design
• Very-Large-Scale Integration (VLSI)
• Microprocessor Design & Interfacing
• Embedded Computer System Design
• Digital Signal Processing

Marketable Courses & Concentrations:

• Computer Aided Drafting & Design (CADD)
• Mobile Device Engineering
• Sustainable “Green” Energy
• Biomedical Engineering
• Game Hardware Design
• User Interface Design
• Micro Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS) Engineering

Popular Career Paths:

• Electrical Engineer
• Electronics Architect
• Computer Hardware Engineer
• Mechanical Engineer
• Microchip Architect
• Mobile Device Engineer
• Quality Control Engineer

Avg. Starting Salary:

• $69,824 per year (U.S.)

What type of work do computer engineers do?

 what does a computer engineer do

Employment Outlook for Computer Hardware Engineers

Employment of computer hardware engineers is projected to grow 5 percent from 2016 to 2026, about as fast as the average for all occupations. A limited number of engineers will be needed to meet the demand for new computer hardware because more technological innovation takes place with software than with hardware. However, demand may grow for hardware engineers as more industries outside of the computer and electronic product manufacturing industry begin to research and develop their own electronic devices. Thus, although declining employment in the manufacturing industries that employ many of these workers will impede the growth of this occupation, computer hardware engineers should be less affected than production occupations because firms are less likely to outsource this type of work.

An increase in hardware startup firms and the ongoing increase in devices with computer chips embedded in them, such as household appliances, medical devices, and automobiles, may lead to some job growth for computer hardware engineers.

Typical Pay for Computer Hardware Engineers

The median annual wage for computer hardware engineers was $115,080 in May 2016. The median wage is the wage at which half the workers in an occupation earned more than that amount and half earned less. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $66,870, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $172,010.

In May 2016, the median annual wages for computer hardware engineers in the top industries in which they worked were as follows:

Semiconductor and other electronic component manufacturing	$124,220
Research and development in the physical, engineering, and life sciences	123,050
Computer and peripheral equipment manufacturing	120,530
Computer systems design and related services	116,840
Federal government	109,770

Most computer hardware engineers work full time.

---

---

 

What Computer Hardware Engineers Do All Day

Computer hardware engineers research, design, develop, and test computer systems and components such as processors, circuit boards, memory devices, networks, and routers.

Duties

Computer hardware engineers typically do the following:

• Design new computer hardware, creating schematics of computer equipment to be built
• Test the computer hardware they design
• Analyze the test results and modify the design as needed
• Update existing computer equipment so that it will work with new software
• Oversee the manufacturing process for computer hardware

Many hardware engineers design devices used in manufactured products that incorporate processors and other computer components and that connect to the Internet. For example, many new cars, home appliances, and medical devices have Internet-ready computer systems built into them.

Computer hardware engineers ensure that computer hardware components work together with the latest software. Therefore, hardware engineers often work with software developers. For example, the hardware and software for mobile phones and other devices frequently are developed at the same time.

 

---

---

 

Work Environment for Computer Hardware Engineers

Computer hardware engineers held about 73,600 jobs in 2016. The largest employers of computer hardware engineers were as follows:

Computer systems design and related services	26%
Computer and peripheral equipment manufacturing	14
Semiconductor and other electronic component manufacturing	12
Research and development in the physical, engineering, and life sciences	9
Federal government	7

Work Schedules

Most computer hardware engineers work full time.

 

---

 

How To Become a Computer Hardware Engineer

Most computer hardware engineers need a bachelor’s degree from an accredited computer engineering program.

Education

Most entry-level computer hardware engineers have a bachelor’s degree in computer engineering, although a degree in electrical engineering or computer science also is generally acceptable. A computer engineering major is similar to a major in electrical engineering but with a heavy emphasis on computer science.

Many engineering programs are accredited by ABET. Employers may prefer candidates who have graduated from an accredited program. To prepare for a major in computer or electrical engineering, students should have a solid background in math and science.

Because hardware engineers commonly work with computer software systems, a familiarity with computer programming is usually expected. This background may be obtained through computer science courses.

Some large firms or specialized jobs may require a master’s degree in computer engineering. Some experienced engineers obtain a master’s degree in business administration (MBA). All engineers must continue their learning over the course of their careers in order to keep up with rapid advances in technology.

Other Experience

Some students participate in internships while in school so that they can gain practical experience.

Advancement

Some computer hardware engineers can advance to become computer and information systems managers.

Important Qualities

Analytical skills. Computer hardware engineers use computer programming tools to analyze the digital circuits in hardware to determine the best design.

Critical-thinking skills. These engineers use logic and reasoning to clarify goals, examine assumptions, and identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions.

Problem-solving skills. Computer hardware engineers identify complex problems in computer hardware, develop and evaluate possible solutions, and figure out the best way to implement them.

Communication skills. Engineers often work on teams and must be able to communicate with other types of engineers, software developers and programmers, as well as with nontechnical team members.

 

 

 

 

 

"Computer Hardware Engineers"   SOC:  17-2061     OOH Code: U074

Thank you BLS.gov.

---