Homes Passed
"Homes passed" is a critical phase in any FTTH deployment. It refers to the potential number of premises within a service area that can be connected to an FTTH network. These premises are typically within close proximity to the fiber infrastructure, such as fiber pedestals, manholes, chambers, or utility poles.
Homes Passed Plus
"Homes passed plus" marks an evolution of this process, focusing on individual properties between the curb or street and the home, and typically extending a small distance onto the property land. In some countries like Germany where this concept is already in use, operators are allowed to access this additional area to establish greater connectivity.
This distinction is vital because it acknowledges that the fiber infrastructure is no longer just in the street but can now extend closer to the premises, greatly increasing accessibility and enabling faster connections. This is a very limited service currently only offered through the HUBER+SUHNER Residential Access Compact Closure (RESA CC).
However, it's important to note that "homes passed plus" doesn't necessarily mean these premises are actively connected to the network. To become subscribers, they may require further installation, including the connection of a drop cable from the network point to the premises and the installation of subscriber equipment. This is where the “homes connected” phase becomes key.
Homes Connected
"Homes connected" is the number of premises that are actively connected to the network and can immediately access services without further installation work. In the “homes connected” installation phase, subscribers are provided with simple instructions to install the last few meters of the FTTH connection within their properties as they please. This can be done either by the home or business owner themselves, or by a tradesman of their choice.
With RESA, the homeowner receives a Building Entry Point (BEP) solution to install at their own leisure, making the whole process more convenient and enabling them to take an active role during installation. Causing less disruption to homeowners’ personal lives increases customer satisfaction while enhancing the levels of connectivity available.
Once “homes connected” has been established, “homes activated” then marks the final stage in the FTTH deployment process, at which customers subscribe to the service and activate the internet within their homes. This will enable them to enjoy high-speed internet and other bandwidth demanding services.
The importance of RESA
RESA is a game-changer for FTTH deployments, simplifying and accelerating the rollout process through a modular, easy-to-install connectivity solution. The innovative product streamlines the infrastructure required for the "homes passed" phase, allowing for efficient planning and management.
By reducing the cost, time, and resources required for fiber network rollouts, RESA not only benefits operators but also enhances the customer experience during the “homes connected” phase. Subscribers can part-install their fiber at their own convenience, reducing waiting times and improving customer satisfaction.
In the ever-evolving world of FTTH technology, understanding the terminology associated with deployments is crucial. "Homes passed", "homes passed plus", and "homes connected" all represent key milestones in the FTTH rollout process. Utilising the HUBER+SUHNER RESA solution this process, making it more efficient and cost-effective, ultimately benefiting both operators and subscribers. As the demand for high-speed internet continues to rise, solutions like RESA are already playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of connectivity.
