Ca-Botics Fiber Systems completed what it claims to be the first installation of fiber in the United States using the Sewer Telecommunications Access by Robot (STAR) technology in Dublin, Ohio's sewer systems.
In September, Dublin City Manager Timothy C. Hansley and Ca-Botics Fiber Systems CEO Jack J. Conie III, announced that Ca-Botics ' STAR was going to be deployed to help build Dublin's high-speed Internet infrastructure for local businesses, residents and institutions.
Ca-Botics' plans in Dublin will see the STAR robot install fiber from Dublin Scioto High School down Hard Road and Riverside Drive to Emerald Bridge where it will connect to the existing DubLink (a total of 1.5 miles). Dublin Scioto High School, a fire station and a police station adjacent to the fiber build will have access to fast data and Internet services.
"This technology will enable carriers and municipalities to quickly and effectively deploy fiber without large capital investments throughout congested city streets and with no destruction," said Conie. "We call this just-in-time fiber."
During this low-impact network build, traffic disruptions from lane closures, construction waste, noise pollution and disruptions are non-existent. STAR runs cable through the existing underground sewers, permitting the placement of fiber cable up to eight to ten times faster and one third to two thirds cheaper than traditional excavation methods. The cable-laying robot, which is about 6 feet long and is equipped with five television cameras to monitor operations, is fed into the sewer system through manholes. It can operate in pipes ranging from 8 inches to 48 inches in diameter. STAR is capable of completing projects in days as opposed to traditional, open-trenching that would take weeks or even months.
"Dublin City Council's goals regarding fiber optics include: to rapidly deploy fiber optics, promote the availability of a wide range of telecommunication services, to enhance economic development, and to minimize disruption of the public rights of way for the public safety, health and welfare," said City Manager Timothy Hansley.
Ca-Botics Fiber Systems, and contractor Environmental Pipeliners Company, Inc. (Subsidiary of The Kokosing Group) installed 2 miles of fiber in 16 working days with a 3 man crew.
About Ca-Botics Fiber Systems:
Ca-Botics is a fiber optic cable installation technology company. For more information, visit www.ca-botics.com.