Geographic information systems in fiber optic network development
GIS for Fiber Optic Network Development
Geographic information systems (GIS) have become 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 use of GIS for fiber optic network management mirrors the technology's rise in other fields. Today, GIS supports public health agencies, scientific study, urban planning, and more.
Background
Fiber optic networks are becoming increasingly important as global demand for high-speed broadband increases.[1]. Consequently, fiber network developers are relying 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 optic world, operators and developers can create map layers that represent their own cable routes, customer locations, competitor networks, existing infrastructure, natural terrain, and more.
GIS for Fiber Optic Network Management
Historically, fiber network operators drew network maps by hand and maintained physical records to document fiber infrastructure [4]. While these recordkeeping methods were functional, 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 online [5]. Technicians and operators can now access shared digital network maps remotely and update records in real time.
As a result, fiber companies can 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 link equipment to geospatial information, such as latitude and longitude coordinates. Users can then switch 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 effectively troubleshoot connectivity issues and prioritize repairs. For example, technicians can combine a map layer showing all urban infrastructure with a layer depicting existing cable routes. This allows workers to plan fixes proactively, seeing whether cables are installed underground, in roadside cabinets, or suspended, without having to travel onsite. Technicians can also use OTDR readings with network maps to locate cable breaks more accurately. Furthermore, digital fiber maps help operators identify network vulnerabilities, including areas where redundancy is lacking.
See also
- 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
- ↑ 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
- 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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