Geographic information systems in fiber optic network development
GIS for Fiber Optic Network Development
Geographic information systems (GIS) have grown increasingly important for fiber optic network development and management. Today, internet service providers (ISPs), municipalities, educational institutions, and many other types of organizations use GIS to create map-based views of fiber infrastructure. Most modern fiber management systems integrate with or leverage GIS capabilities in some way, as they enable network developers and operators to visualize fiber infrastructure and other physical elements across their markets. The increased utilization of GIS for fiber optic network management parallels the technology’s rise in other fields. Today, GIS supports public health agencies, scientific study, urban planning, and more.
Background[edit]
Fiber optic networks are becoming increasingly important as global demand for high-speed broadband increases.[1]. Subsequently, fiber network developers are leaning more on geographic information systems to guide decision-making, access competitor footprints, and more [2].
One of the biggest advantages of GIS is that users can create unique map layers that represent different types of data [3]. These maps can then be “layered” on top of one another to reveal geospatial relationships between seemingly unrelated datasets. In the fiber world, operators and developers can create map layers that represent their own cable routes, customer locations, competitor networks, built infrastructure, natural terrain, and more.
GIS for Fiber Optic Network Management[edit]
Historically, fiber network operators drew network maps by hand and kept physical records to document fiber infrastructure [4]. While these recordkeeping methods worked, they were inefficient and cumbersome to maintain. Advances in GIS capabilities over the last several decades have made it possible for companies to create accurate and detailed digital representations of their fiber networks that are accessible over the web [5]. Technicians and operators can now access shared digital network maps remotely and update records in real time.
As a result, fiber companies can do the following more effectively [6]
- Evaluate the spatial distribution of fiber network components
- Identify potential growth opportunities
- Address network vulnerabilities
To evaluate the spatial distribution of network components, operators can create datasets and map layers that tie equipment to geospatial information, such as latitude and longitude coordinates. Users can then toggle between different map layers to see how network components are positioned relative to other physical features.
Development teams also rely on GIS maps to identify coverage gaps and expansion opportunities in existing markets. By combining geospatial data with capacity utilization, operators can visually map potential customers to existing cables with unused fibers.
Field technicians use GIS maps in conjunction with outage data to determine how to best troubleshoot connectivity issues and prioritize repairs. For example, technicians could combine a map layer that shows all urban infrastructure with one depicting existing cable routes. Doing would enable workers to plan fixes ahead of time, as they would be able to see whether cables were installed underground, in roadside cabinets, or suspended in some way without having to travel onsite. Technicians could also use OTDR readings with network maps to determine the approximate location of cable breaks. Furthermore, digital fiber maps help operators discover network vulnerabilities, including where they lack redundancy.
See also[edit]
- ArcGIS
- Comparison of GIS software
- Fiber Management System
- Fiber to the x
- Geographic information systems
- Geographic information systems in geospatial intelligence
- GIS and aquatic science
- GIS and public health
- GIS in archaeology
- List of GIS software
- Map database management
- QGIS
- Virtual globe
References[edit]
- ↑ Bawtree-Jobson, Ben (August 5, 2020). "The Role Of Fiber Optic Networks For The Future Of 5G". Forbes. Retrieved December 18, 2020.
- ↑ Stephen, Valerie. "What is a Fiber Map?". GeoTel. Retrieved December 9, 2020.
- ↑ "GIS (Geographic Information System)". National Geographic. Retrieved December 18, 2020.
- ↑ Anderson, Randall (October 1, 1996). "Manage your fiber-optic network using software". Cabling Installation & Maintenance. Retrieved December 18, 2020.
- ↑ Petrecca, Danny (May 1, 2012). "Geographic Information System for the Utility Communication Network". Utility Products. Retrieved December 18, 2020.
- ↑ "GIS & Fiber Network Mapping". OSPInsight. Retrieved December 9, 2020.
External links[edit]
- 3-GIS
- ArcGIS
- BICSI
- Bentley
- Circuit Vision
- Enghouse Interactive
- ESRI
- FiberBase
- Fiber Broadband Association
- GE Digital
- Geo-Tel
- OSPInsight
- Patch Manager
- The Fiber Optic Association, Inc.
- TimberCon
- VETRO FiberMap
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