Certified Fiber Optics Installer (FOI)
Competency Requirements
This competency listing is an identification of individual subject topics in which Fiber Optics
Installers are expected to obtain knowledge in order to prepare for the FOI certification
examination. This includes basic concepts of fiber optics installation and service applicable to all of the
functions required to safely and completely install fiber optics communications and transmission cabling.
Fiber Optics Installers must be knowledgeable in the following:
1.0
HISTORY OF FIBER OPTICS
1.1
1.2
1.3
2.0
PRINCIPLES OF FIBER OPTIC TRANSMISSION
2.1
2.2
2.3
2.4
2.5
3.0
Describe the basic parts of a fiber optic link
Describe the basic operation of a fiber optic transmitter
Describe the basic operation of a fiber optic receiver
Explain how to express gain and loss using dB
Explain how to express optical power in dBm
BASIC PRINCIPLES OF LIGHT
3.1
3.2
4.0
Trace the evolution of light in communication
Summarize the evolution of optical fiber manufacturing technology
Track the evolution of optical fiber integration and application
Describe the following:
3.1.1 Light as electromagnetic energy
3.1.2 Light as particles and waves
3.1.3 The electromagnetic spectrum and locate light frequencies within the spectrum in
relation to radio and microwave communication frequencies
3.1.4 Define refraction of light
3.1.5 Define Fresnel reflection
Explain the following:
3.2.1 How the index of refraction is used to express the speed of light through a transparent
medium
3.2.2 Causes of reflection and how they affect system performance
3.2.2.1 Snell’s law and it’s use to calculate the critical angle of incidence
3.2.3 Fresnel reflections and their impact on the performance of a fiber optic communication
system
OPTICAL FIBER CONSTRUCTION AND THEORY
4.1
4.2
4.3
Describe the following:
4.1.1 The basic parts of an optical fiber
4.1.2 The different materials that can be used to construct an optical fiber
4.1.3 Optical fiber manufacturing techniques
4.1.4 The tensile strength of an optical fiber
4.1.5 A mode in an optical fiber
4.1.6 The three refractive index profiles commonly found in optical fiber
Explain the propagation of light through:
4.2.1 Multimode step index optical fiber
4.2.2 Multimode graded index optical fiber
4.2.3 Single-mode step index optical fiber
Describe the ANSI/TIA-568-C. recognized:
4.3.1 Multimode optical fibers
FOI Competencies
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ETA International – Fiber Optics Installer Knowledge Competencies
4.4
4.5
4.6
5.0
OPTICAL FIBER CHARACTERISTICS
5.1
5.2
5.3
5.4
5.5
5.6
6.0
Explain dispersion in an optical fiber
5.1.1 Define modal dispersion and its effects on the bandwidth of an optical fiber
5.1.2 Describe material dispersion and its effects on the bandwidth of an optical fiber
5.1.3 Explain that chromatic dispersion consists of both material dispersion and waveguide
dispersion
Outline the causes of attenuation in an optical fiber
5.2.1 Compare attenuation versus wavelength in a multimode optical fiber
5.2.2 Compare attenuation versus wavelength in a single-mode optical fiber
Explain the numerical aperture of an optical fiber
Relate how the number of modes in an optical fiber is defined by core diameter and wavelength
5.4.1 Define cut off wavelength of a single-mode fiber
Describe microbends in an optical fiber
Explain macrobends in an optical fiber
FIBER OPTIC SAFETY
6.1
6.2
6.3
6.4
6.5
7.0
4.3.2 Single-mode optical fibers
Describe the characteristics of a single-mode optical fiber:
4.4.1 ITU-T-G.652
4.4.2 ITU-T-G.652D
4.4.3 ITU-T-G.655 non-zero dispersion-shifted
Define differences between ISO/IEC 11801 OM1, OM2, OM3 and OM4 fiber designations
Cite commercially available:
4.6.1 Plastic Clad Silica (PCS) and Hard Clad Silica (HCS) optical fiber
4.6.2 Plastic Optical Fiber (POF)
Explain how to safely handle and dispose of fiber optic cable, optical fiber chips, and debris
List the safety classifications of fiber optic light sources
Discuss the potential chemical hazards in the fiber optic environment and the purpose of the
material safety data sheet (MSDS)
Cite potential electrical hazards in the fiber optic installation environment
Outline typical workplace hazards in the fiber optic environment
FIBER OPTIC CABLES
7.1
7.2
7.3
7.4
7.5
7.6
7.7
Draw a cross section of a fiber optic cable and explain the purposes of each segment
Identify why and where loose tube fiber optic cable is used
Describe tight buffer fiber optic cable
Compare common strength members found in fiber optic cables
Name common jacket materials found in fiber optic cables
Describe simplex and duplex cordage and explain the difference between cordage and cable
Describe the characteristics of the following:
7.7.1 Loose Tube Gel Filled (LTGF) and Loose Tube Gel Free cable
7.7.1.1 Dry water block
7.7.2 Distribution cable
7.7.3 Breakout cable
7.7.4 Armored cable
7.7.5 Figure 8 (Messenger) cable
7.7.6 Ribbon cable
7.7.7 Submarine cable
7.7.8 Composite cable
7.7.8.1 Electrical and Optical
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ETA International – Fiber Optics Installer Knowledge Competencies
7.8
7.9
7.10
7.11
7.12
7.13
7.14
7.15
7.16
7.17
8.0
SPLICING
8.1
8.2
8.3
8.4
8.5
8.6
8.7
8.8
9.0
7.7.9 Hybrid cable
Discuss ANSI/TIA-568-C. performance specifications for the optical fiber cables recognized in
premises cabling standards to include:
7.8.1 Inside plant cable
7.8.2 Indoor-outdoor cable
7.8.3 Outside plant cable
7.8.4 Drop cable
Review how and when a fan-out (furcation) kit is used
Identify how and when a breakout kit is used
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List the National Electrical Code (NEC ) optical fiber cable types including:
7.11.1 Abandoned optical fiber cable
7.11.2 Nonconductive optical fiber cable
7.11.3 Composite optical fiber cable
7.11.4 Conductive optical fiber cable
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Describe the NEC listing requirements for:
7.12.1 Optical fiber cables
7.12.2 Optical fiber raceways
Outline the ANSI/TIA-598-C color code and cable markings
Identify the ISO/IEC 11801 international cabling standard
Identify the ANSI/TIA-568-C. minimum bend radius specifications for inside plant,
indoor/outdoor, outside plant, and drop cables
Cite the ITU-T G.652, G.657 and the Telcordia GR-20-CORE minimum bend radius specification
for outside plant fiber optic cables
Identify the ANSI/TIA-568-C. maximum tensile load ratings during installation for inside plant,
indoor/outdoor, outside plant, and drop cables.
Explain the intrinsic factors that affect splice performance
Relate the extrinsic factors that affect splice performance
Recall the basic parts of a mechanical splicer
Discuss how to perform a mechanical splice
Explain the operation of a fusion splicer
8.5.1 Describe the different types of fusion splicers
Explain how to perform and protect a fusion splice
List ANSI/TIA-568-C. inside plant splice performance requirements
Cite ANSI/TIA-758-, Telcordia GR-20 and GR-765 outside plant splice performance
requirements
CONNECTORS
9.1
9.2
9.3
Indicate the basic parts of a fiber optic connector
Describe the physical difference and the importance to reflection values for the following
connector polishes:
9.2.1 Flat polished endfaces
9.2.2 Physical Contact (PC) polished endfaces
9.2.3 Angled Physical Contact (APC) polished endfaces
9.2.4 Ultra-Physical Contact (UPC) polished endfaces
Distinguish between:
9.3.1 ANSI/TIA-568-C. recognized connectors
9.3.2 Small form factor (SFF) connectors
9.3.3 MPO/MTP multi-fiber connectors
9.3.4 An optical fiber pigtail
FOI Competencies
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ETA International – Fiber Optics Installer Knowledge Competencies
9.4
9.5
9.6
9.7
9.8
9.9
9.10
9.11
9.12
9.13
9.14
9.15
9.16
9.3.5 ANSI/TIA-568-C. multimode and single-mode connector and adapter identification
Describe common connector ferrule materials
9.4.1 PC beige colored connectors
9.4.2 APC green colored connectors
9.4.3 UPC blue colored connectors
Explain the intrinsic factors that affect connector performance
Explain the extrinsic factors that affect connector performance
Describe reflectance caused by interconnections
Identify the steps involved in an anaerobic epoxy connector termination and polish
List the steps involved in an oven cured epoxy connector termination and polish
Relate the steps involved in a pre-load epoxy connector termination and polish
Describe how to construct a no-polish, no-epoxy connector termination
9.11.1 Mechanical termination spliced on connector
Explain how to properly clean a connection
Describe how to examine the end-face of a connector per IEC 61300-3-35 and ANSI/TIA-455-57B
List the ANSI/TIA-568-C. connector performance requirements
List the ITU-T G.671 requirements for single-mode connectors
Compare the following fiber connectorization methods:
9.16.1 Field termination
9.16.2 Factory terminated assemblies
10.0 FIBER OPTIC LIGHT SOURCES
10.1 Describe the basic operation and types of LED light sources used in fiber optic communications.
10.1.1 Describe LED performance characteristics
10.1.2 Describe the performance characteristics of a LED transmitter
10.2 Describe the basic operation and types of laser light sources used in fiber optic communication:
10.2.1 Multimode
10.2.2 Single-mode
10.3 Describe laser performance characteristics
10.4 Describe the performance characteristics of a laser transmitter
10.5 Explain the benefit of using a laser light source in fiber optic communication systems
10.6 Identify which fiber type is best used for communications systems with VCSEL light sources
11.0 FIBER OPTIC DETECTORS AND RECEIVERS
11.1 Summarize the basic operation of a photodiode
11.2 Explain why an optical attenuator is occasionally used in a communication system
11.3 Explain sensitivity and responsivity of a receiver
12.0 CABLE INSTALLATION AND HARDWARE
12.1
12.2
12.3
12.4
Cite manufacturer installation cable specifications
Explain the static and dynamic loading on a fiber optic cable during installation
List commonly used installation hardware
Describe these types of installations:
12.4.1 Tray and duct installation
12.4.2 Conduit installation
12.4.3 Direct burial installation
12.4.3.1 Minimum buried depth of drop cable
12.4.4 Aerial installation
12.4.5 Blown fiber installation
12.4.6 Wall outlet installation
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12.5 Explain entrance cable bonding and grounding per NEC Article 770.100 and Article 250
FOI Competencies
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ETA International – Fiber Optics Installer Knowledge Competencies
12.6 Summarize these types of preparation:
12.6.1 Patch panel
12.6.2 Rack mountable hardware housings and cable routing guides for cable/fiber bend
radius control
12.6.3 Splice enclosure
12.7 Recognize that ANSI/TIA-606 standard concisely describes the administrative record keeping
elements of a modern telecommunications infrastructure that is used for premises installations
12.8 Explain that the administration includes basic documentation and timely updating of drawings,
labels and records that is used for premises installations in accordance with ANSI/TIA-606
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12.9 Explain the role of the NEC /Canadian Electrical Code (CEC )
12.10 Explain the role of the National Electrical Safety Code (NESC)
12.11 Identify the role of the ANSI/TIA 590 standard
13.0 FIBER OPTIC SYSTEM ADVANTAGES
13.1 Compare the following advantages of optical fiber over twisted pair and coaxial cables:
13.1.1 Weigh the bandwidth advantages of optical fiber over twisted pair and coaxial copper
cables
13.1.2 Relate the attenuation advantages of optical fiber over twisted pair and coaxial copper
cables
13.1.3 Explain the electromagnetic immunity advantages of fiber optic cable over copper
cable
13.1.4 Compare the weight saving advantages of fiber optic cable over copper cable
13.1.5 Describe the size advantages of fiber optic cable over copper cable
13.1.6 Identify the security advantages of fiber optic cable over copper cable
13.1.7 Define the safety advantages of fiber optic cables over copper cables
14.0 TEST EQUIPMENT AND LINK/CABLE TESTING
14.1 Recognize that field test instruments for multimode fiber cabling that meet the requirements of
ANSI/TIA-526-14- in accordance with ANSI/TIA-568-C.
14.2 Identify field test instruments for single-mode fiber cabling shall meet the requirements of TIA526-7 in accordance with ANSI/TIA-568.C.
14.3 Describe the types of fiber optic test equipment that are used for continuity testing
14.4 Explain the usage of a visual fault locator (VFL) when troubleshooting a fiber span
14.5 Describe the basic operation of a single-mode and a multimode light source and optical power meter
14.5.1 Explain why a light source should not be disconnected during testing for zero
calibration changes
14.6 Review the difference between a measurement quality jumper (MQJ) and a patch cord
14.7 Define the purpose of a mode filter by having five non-overlapping wraps of multimode fiber on a
mandrel in accordance with ANSI/TIA-568.C. (Annex E)
14.7.1 Explain that the procedure is also applicable to single-mode cabling with a single 30
mm (1.2 in) diameter loop of single-mode fiber in accordance with ANSI/TIA-526-7
14.8 Describe how to measure the optical loss in a patch cord with a light source and optical power
meter using Method A 2-Jumper Reference in accordance with ANSI/TIA-526-14
14.9 Summarize the basic operation and tasks of an optical time domain reflectometer (OTDR)
End of Fiber Optic Installer Competencies Listings
(with 14 major Categories)
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FOI Competencies
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ETA International – Fiber Optics Installer Knowledge Competencies
Suggested Study Materials and Resources for ETA Fiber Optics Installer Certification:
Cabling: The Complete Guide to Copper and Fiber-Optic Networking, 4E; Andrew Oliviero, Bill
Woodward; ISBN 978-0470477076; Sybex, Inc; July 2009; Paperback; 1144 ppg.
Troubleshooting Optical Fiber Networks: Understanding and Using Optical Time-Domain
Reflectometers, 2E; Duwayne Anderson, Larry Johnson, Florian Bell; ISBN 978-0120586615;
Elsevier Academic Press; May 2004; hardcover; 437 ppg; 800-545-2522
Technology Series Videos and CDs; The Light Brigade, 800-451-7128, www.lightbrigade.com
Technicians Guide to Fiber Optics, 4E; Donald J. Sterling; ISBN 1-4018-1270-8; Delmar Learning;
Dec 2003; hardcover; 384 ppg; Available through ETA 800-288-3824, www.eta-i.org
Fiber Optic Installer's Field Manual; Bob Chomycz; ISBN 0-07-135604-5; McGraw-Hill; Jun 2000;
softcover; 368 ppg; —Available through ETA at 800-288-3824, www.eta-i.org
Fiber Optic Installer and Technician Guide; Bill Woodward, Emile Husson; ISBN 978-0782143904; Sybex,
Inc; July 2005; hardcover; 496 ppg; Available through ETA 800-288-3824, www.eta-i.org
Fiber Optic Communications; James N. Downing; ISBN 978-1401866358; Delmar Cengage Learning;
September 2004; softcover; 378 ppg; Available through ETA 800-288-3824, www.eta-i.org
Understanding Fiber Optics, 5E; Jeff Hecht; ISBN: 978-0131174290; Prentice-Hall; April 2005; hardcover;
800 ppg
Introduction to Fiber Optics, 3E; John Crisp, Barry Elliott; ISBN 978-0750667562; Newnes; Dec 2005;
paperback; 245 ppg
Fiber Optic Theory & Applications; Jeffrey Dominique; 1993; FNT Publ.; paperback www.f-n-t.com
Designers Guide to Fiber Optics; AMP Corp., Harrisburg, PA 17105; ASIN B000IU64O; 1982; paperback;
209 ppg
National Electrical Code, 2011; National Fire Protection Assn., Sept.,2010; www.nfpa.org
ETA Fiber Optics Installer Committee
Committee Chairman,
Agard, Rich, FOI, RESIma
Arndt, David, FOI
Booth, Richard, FOI, FOT
Burch, Glenn, SAEFAB, FOT
Casbeer, Chuck, FOD
Dadaian, Scott
DiMauro, Michael
Dominique, Jeffrey, FOI, FOT
Giordano, Timothy, FOT, CETsr
Gosnay, Greg, FOI, FOT
Groves, JB, FOI, FOT, et al
Guadalupe, Felipe
Johnson, Larry
Limtiaco, John, FOI, DCI
McLaughlin, Barry, FOI
Morris, Rohan, FOT-OSP
Quinby, Eric, FOI
Rivera, Kenneth
Siverling, Wayne, FOI,FOT,DCI
Smith, Joe, FOI
Stone, Don, SAEFAB,FOT,CFODE
Stover, Robert, FOI, FOT, DCI
Taha, Khalid, FOD,FOT,FOI
Woodward, Bill, P.E., FOD
FOI Competencies
Bill Woodward, P.E.,FOD
Phila. Fiber Optic Training, (PA)
Casper College, (WY)
ETA International, (AZ)
Kitco Fiber Optics, (VA)
Infotec, ECPI University, (VA)
Kitco Fiber Optics, (VA))
Focus Educational Services, (FL)
Fiber Network Training, (AZ)
USMC, (CA)
Yeager Career Ctr, (WV)
WCJC Ft. Bend Tech. Ctr., (TX)
Kitco Fiber Optics, (VA)
The Light Brigade, (WA)
L & K Communications, (Guam)
TTA of NE (MA)
Vector Tech. Institute, (FL, Jam)
Corning Cabling Systems, (NC)
J M Fiber Optics, (CA)
USAF, Sheppard Tech. School, (TX)
Telecom Training Div-TEEX, (TX)
Kitco Fiber Optics, (VA)
Advanced Tech. Ctr. (VA)
ECPI University (VA)
Ursa Navigations Solutions, (VA)
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wwoodward@ursanav.com
ragard@aol.com
darndt@caspercollege.edu
richard.w.booth@gmail.com
glenn.burch@kitcofo.com
ccasbeer@infotecpro.com
scott.dadaian@kitcofo.com
m_dimauro@bellsouth.net
jeffdominique@f-n-t.com
gio0905@gmail.com
ggosnay@access.k12.wv.us
jbgroves@wcjc.edu
felipe.guadalupe@kitcofo.com
larry@thelightbrigade.com
anital@teleguam.net
bmclaughlin02@verizon.net
rohmor@cwjamaica.com
eric.quinby@corning.com
krivera@jmfiberoptics.com
wayne.siverling@us.af.mil
joe.smith@teexmail.tamu.edu
dstone@kitcofo.com
rstover@vbschools.com
ktaha@ecpi.edu
wwoodward@ursanav.com
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