ETA schedules fiber-to-the-antenna training March 16-17, 2015

ETA International says it will host fiber to the antenna (FTTA) training March 16 and 17 at ETA International's Education Forum 2015, co-located with International Wireless Communications Expo (IWCE) in Las Vegas, NV.

The FTTA hands-on training will cover deploying reliable fiber to the antenna infrastructures based on radio interface standards like common public radio interface and the open base station architecture initiative. Those interested can find more info on the IWCE website.

ETA says it is responding to the increased demand for technicians who can upgrade mobile backhaul networks and antenna infrastructures. The organization notes that, with digital interfaces, fiber is preferred over coaxial cable due to higher bandwidth, better reliability, and less weight. Fiber also allows the separation of the BBU and RRU, giving mobile operators the ability to rethink how they deploy their system (see "The X factor has changed in FTTx").

ETA says its FTTA certification is for site integrators, contractors, and construction companies who install fiber-optic cables at wireless and cellular facilities. The course at IWCE will address how to prepare and install pre-terminated fiber cable assemblies on the tower, how to test fiber after installation, and how to identify problems during and after installation. Basic fiber safety and optical transmission theory will also be covered, as will core concepts such as fiber-optic cable types, modes, construction, installation maintenance, and testing. The certification training will include a hands-on component with a focus on the carrier Method of Procedure (MOP).

Thomas Bonner, Ph.D., an ETA-approved training provider, will lead the instruction.

For more information on fiber-optic training and providers, visit the Lightwave Buyer's Guide.