Vector Technology Institute

Fiber Optics - Principles & Fundamentals

This module introduces students to the components, tools and equipment used within the field of Fiber Optics. Students will gain an appreciation of the technical aspects of optics, its related electronics, measurement, installation, applications, testing, etc. Instruction includes multimedia presentations and practical demonstrations. All instructors are Certified Fiber Optic Specialists. Coverage includes Fiber Optic history and fundamentals, Optical Fibers/cables, electronics, inter-connection devices, light-wave equipment, terminations, testing, etc. Practical demonstrations include fiber terminations, and splicing. This first module is the pre-requisite for the subsequent Fiber Optics - Hands-on module.

Module Objectives

• Cover history
• Understand Fiber Optic principles
• Appreciate related safety hazards
• Understand cable construction & types
• Understand termination & Splicing
• Equipment and tools
• Cover testing

Applicants are not required to possess any prior knowledge or background in working with cables or wires at a professional level. Having a technical mindset however, would be beneficial.

All candidates MUST be computer literate and have access to a computer and the internet.

For more information, kindly contact our admissions office.

Fiber Optics - Hands-on

In this module, students will put the technical aspects of Fiber Optics into practice; Its related electronics, measurement, installation, applications, testing, etc. while constructing a complete Fiber Optic Link (Simulating Central Office to Outside Plant to Customer Premise). Hence, this module will provide students with hands-on skills and experience in terminating optical fibers and installing optical cables, performing fusion and mechanical splices, troubleshooting, test measurements, and documentation to Industry standards.

Students will learn how to terminate a variety of connector styles and types, perform reliable low loss splices, test and troubleshoot Fiber Optic links (OTDR) etc. Students will be trained in the use and operation of; light source & power meter (OLTS), Visual Fault Locator (VFL), Optical Time Domain Reflect meter (OTDR), Fiber Identifier, etc.

Students will perform:

• Termination of Fibers with a variety of connector styles and types
• Installation of cables & Fibers within closures & panels
• Reliable low loss splices
• Construction of Fiber Optic links
• Test and troubleshoot Fiber Optic links using Fiber Identifier, VFL, OTDR, OLTS, etc.

After completion of both the knowledge-based and hands-on modules, students will sit the FOA's international certification exam. Successful candidates are awarded the according FOA CFOT® certification. Examinations are proctored at VTI under the rules and regulations of The Fiber Optic Association.

Applicants are not required to possess any background in working with cables or wires at a professional level.  However, completion of module 1 is a pre-requisite. It would be beneficial if applicants have some affinity for handling/working with  electronic devices or hand tools.

All candidates MUST be computer literate and have access to a computer and the internet.

For more information, kindly contact our admissions office.

Fiber Optics - Principles & Fundamentals – This important fundamentals module covers the material required for satisfying the knowledge-based aspect of the FOA CFOT® certification examination.

Fiber Optics - Hands-on – This module covers the material and hands-on activities required for satisfying the skills and abilities aspects of the FOA CFOT® & CFOS/O certification assessments. Programme duration is 4 weeks, at the end of which students sit the FOA CFOT® certification examination. Successful candidates are awarded the CFOT® international certification.

Nb. Persons interested in Specialist level certifications should make such interests known to the admissions office.