Advantages of laying fiber optic cables underground: optimal route for reliable data transmission
In today’s modern world, where the flow of information is a crucial element of societal functioning, telecommunication infrastructure plays a key role. In the context of technological development, laying fiber optic cables underground is becoming an increasingly popular and advantageous solution compared to the traditional method of placing them on poles. Below, we present several key advantages of this method and discuss why, in some areas, laying cables on poles remains the dominant method of expanding infrastructure.
Although most people in the telecommunications industry are familiar with images of extensive cable tangles on poles and feel uneasy at the sight, such scenes still exist in many places on Earth. Fortunately, the benefits of laying cables underground are becoming more well-known and apparent to institutions responsible for planning telecommunication infrastructure expansion.
Protection against weather conditions
Above all, this method provides the best protection against weather conditions. Placing fiber optic cables underground offers significantly better protection against atmospheric conditions compared to placing them on poles. Direct exposure to rain, snow, wind, or UV radiation can negatively impact cable durability. By laying them underground, the risk of damage caused by extreme weather conditions is minimized.
Aesthetics of the landscape
The previously mentioned images of cable bundles on poles do not contribute to the aesthetics of the landscape. Fiber optic cables hidden underground are less invasive in urban or rural landscapes, contributing to the improvement of the environment’s aesthetics. The absence of visible poles eliminates the need to interfere with the architectural landscape, which is particularly important in areas of historical or natural significance and also enhances public safety. Why?
Public safety
Telecommunication poles carry certain risks associated with the safety of people and animals, especially in extreme weather conditions. Falling poles can pose a danger to people and property. Laying cables underground eliminates this risk, contributing to increased safety. Damaged cables necessitate repairs, and the worst-case scenarios related to property damage or endangering health can have serious legal and financial consequences. As can be inferred, laying fiber optic cables underground is also a greater guarantee of the durability of the investment.
Uninterrupted data transmission
Large number of cables at telecommunication poles can generate electromagnetic interference. Laying cables underground eliminates this problem, which is particularly important in areas requiring precise data transmission, such as scientific or medical institutions.
In which areas is laying fiber optic cables on poles still the most practical?
The decision to lay fiber optic cables on poles in countries with very diverse or mountainous terrain, such as the Nordic countries, may be the most practical way for many areas. The choice of cable laying method is related to various factors concerning telecommunication infrastructure, technical, economic, environmental, or social factors. Of course, every conscious country that benefits from underground cable laying uses this method wherever possible. However, for certain reasons, fiber optic cables are still laid on poles.
A good example is Scandinavia, which is characterized by extensive geographical areas, including forests, mountains, and areas with difficult access. In some areas, laying cables underground may be technically challenging or costly due to specific terrain conditions. In such cases, laying cables on poles may be more practical. In these situations, even though laying cables underground may be more aesthetic and protect telecommunication infrastructure from weather conditions, the costs associated with laying underground are significantly higher than the costs of maintaining cables on poles. Introducing changes to existing infrastructure requires a careful consideration of the balance between benefits and costs.
Laying fiber optic cables underground was until recently an innovative and is now the best solution, bringing numerous benefits. Protection against weather conditions, improvement of landscape aesthetics, increased public safety, and reduced electromagnetic interference are just a few of the many advantages of this technology. As society places increasing demands on access to fast and reliable internet, laying fiber optic cables underground becomes not only an efficient but also a strategic choice for developing telecommunication networks.