It is a known fact that the fiber-optic technology does not have limited bandwidth. Therefore, the usual limitation is created by financial budget constraints. The optical sector has developed a broad range of electro-optical equipment that creates different access types to optical cables already deployed in different world parts. For that reason, the supply chain of fiber optics boxes like the famous Shiningfiber has become complex. It is also changing rapidly. This article delves into the detailed structure of fiber optic installation and its supply chain.
You have already learned that there are a variety of optical access networks. They go by different names such as FTTx, and they have three key points that should always be considered when structuring optical access networks for enterprise purposes.
Assuming that a customer’s bandwidth requirements are well defined and known and that there are no regulatory constraints.
The supply chain serving the fiber optics market is known to be complex. Widespread consolidation, where significant companies purchase smaller counterparts to provide national coverage and one-stop shopping, characterize the industry’s recent activities.
You should note that the fiber optic specialist is indeed a dying breed. Distributors and companies responsible for installation have discovered the pros of crossing over to a broad range of communications media, such as electronic cabling, which is often used together with the fiber optics.
The supply chain of fiber optics and their boxes consists of a broad range of distributors offering a line of connectors, installation, polishes, and abrasives for installers’ supplies.
In a study conducted by the Cable Installation Magazine, roughly 70 percent of the material in the market of fiber optics flows to the installers and end-users via distributors.
The remaining 30 percent is usually bought directly from the source of materials.
Over and above, at least 100 companies in the market place categorize themselves as distributors. 90 percent of the material used to make fibre optics boxes flows through the six most significant distributors known as:
- Anixter
- Black Box
- Communication Supply Company
That said, the distribution of fiber optics boxes in the industry is characterized by significantly lower profit margins. Profits depend on large volumes of sales, a factor that drives the industry by motivating distributors to invest in minimum purchases straight from installers.
On the other hand, consumers are demanding more based on fiber-optic networks’ performance terms and reliability.
Distributors are currently increasing their demands on the chain of distribution-they are expected to produce different parts of fiber cable distribution boxes within a short timeframe. As the surrounding becomes competitive, distributors are also finding strategies to increase their service levels via various value-added services. These services are such as:
- Installer training
- Installer certification
- Custom cable cutting
- In-house product testing
Final Thoughts
Fiber optic cabling is one of the most expensive options for communications. The chances of signal loss are generally reduced. This implies that a drawback on the cable is almost like fiber optic cabling. It is durable, tough, and long-lasting, making it a bit complicated to work with during installation.
