OSP cabling, otherwise known as telecommunications outside plant cabling, has been around for ages. However, this type of telecommunications infrastructure has expanded and has become more complex and efficient. But before you decide on installing an OSP cabling system, there are a few things you should consider first.
Aerial, Underground, or Direct Burial?
There are three types of OSP: aerial, underground, and direct burial. Aerial cables are installed from pole to pole. Installation involves lashing lighter cables to messengers or other cables that have a heavy coax in place. Heavier cables are lashed on without the support of a messenger.
Underground cables are generally installed on conduits with several inner ducts for pulling cables. Cables for this infrastructure are designed for high pulling tension, and lubricants are used to reduce friction on longer pulls.
Direct buried cables are placed underground without a conduit. The cables are designed to withstand the rigors of being in dirt, and that usually means a more rugged cable. Direct burial is generally limited to areas where the ground is mostly soil with few rocks.
How Much Connectivity Do You Need?
You should have a general idea of how much connectivity you currently need for your building and how much you will need in the future. You can determine this by looking at the current equipment you have and seeing how much bandwidth you need to run it. Then think about the type of equipment you want to use in the future, and account for the extra bandwidth you will need to run it efficiently.
Location
No two OSP projects are the same. In fact, OSP cabling varies based on location. Physical things like parking lot location, trees, and shrubs will affect the route of your cabling. Other things that vary based on location are local codes and corporate restrictions. All of these things will affect the type of cabling that is best for your OSP and will affect the total cost of your project.
Leave it to the Experts
OSP projects can be complicated, but not for the professionals. Blue Star Technologies is here to help with your next OSP project. We’ll sit down with you to discuss your cabling needs, develop a comprehensive cabling plan, and flawlessly execute your project. We’re here to serve Maryland businesses. Get started on your OSP project today by giving us a call at 410-675-5777.