Telecommunications networks are growing fast all over the world. Because of this, companies need to build their networks quickly. They also need to spend less money. More people use the internet every day, so the need for fast internet keeps growing. To help with this, companies use fiber optic networks and aerial cables.
Using aerial cable is an easy and simple way to build a network. Instead of putting cables under the ground, workers put them on poles above the ground. This way is faster and usually costs less. Because it is fast and cheap, many companies use this method today.
What is an aerial cable?
An aerial cable is a fiber optic cable that hangs above the ground on poles or similar structures. The cable stretches from one pole to another. It uses a support wire to hold it in place and keep the right tension. This is different from underground cables, which are buried in the soil or placed inside pipes.
Since aerial cables stay outside, they need strong protection. The cable has special outer layers to protect the fiber inside. These layers protect it from rain, heat, wind, and other weather conditions. Manufacturers use strong and water-resistant materials so the cable can last for many years.
Markets and Markets Reports show that aerial deployment led the fiber optic market in 2024. This shows that many companies prefer this method because it is practical and cost-effective.
What does an aerial cable do?
An aerial cable sends data from one place to another using light signals. These light signals carry digital information. This allows people to use high-speed internet, phone services, and television. Because fiber can carry large amounts of data, it supports modern apps and online services.
The cable connects data centers, phone exchanges, offices, and homes. In this way, it helps data move between users and service providers. Many services like cloud platforms and streaming depend on this network.
One aerial cable can contain many fiber strands inside it. Each strand can serve a different customer or service. This means one cable route can support many users. As a result, companies can reduce costs while still serving more customers.
Key steps to connect aerial cable
Installing aerial cable needs careful planning. The process usually follows several steps, including:
- Planning and permits: Network teams study the route and check existing poles. They measure cable distance and check pole spacing and ground clearance. They also get permits from local authorities and pole owners to follow local rules.
- Pole preparation and make-ready: Crews inspect poles to make sure they can carry the new cable. Damaged poles are replaced. Hardware is added or upgraded when needed. This work ensures safety before installation.
- Cable installation: Teams attach support wires between poles. Technicians pull the fiber cable along the route and secure it to the support wire. They make sure the cable has the correct tension and sag.
- Splicing and testing: Specialists join cable sections together at connection points. They test the signal to make sure light passes through clearly. The full cable line is checked to confirm good performance before it starts operating.
The Fiber Broadband Association reports that aerial installation cost about $6.55 per foot in 2024. Underground installation cost about $18.25 per foot. Aerial cable is much cheaper, so many companies choose this method for their network projects.
Moving forward with fiber infrastructure
Aerial cable is very important for telecom networks because it helps companies grow fast. It keeps costs low and service good. At the same time, ARNet provides dark fiber infrastructure that is friendly for hyperscalers and big telecom companies. This means businesses can control their network. They can make it bigger when they need more speed or more capacity.
ARNet’s network covers Southeast Asia, serving Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand. It includes long routes, city fiber, last-mile connections, and aerial cable. The design makes it easy for hyperscalers and large operators to scale their operations and send data fast.
ARNet builds and takes care of its network. This allows the company to keep good quality and work fast. It also has the right licenses. With more than 10,000 kilometers of fiber connecting over 60 data centers, the network runs with a committed SLA, so business can keep running well.
About the Author
Nabila Choirunnisa, Digital Marketing Executive at ARNet