Abstract
Internet users are demanding more instantaneous, high-speed internet connections more than ever. Due to this trend, fiber installation is rapidly increasing as carriers scramble to bring fiber-optic cable connections directly to homes, businesses, government facilities and educational institutions across the country. As demand for fiber installations remains high, so does the demand for utility contractors, and their need for efficient technology and fast turnaround on these installation jobs. Utility contractors are increasingly turning to microtrenching solutions on many fiber jobs, especially in congested urban environments that require a less disruptive method for fiber installation. Microtrenching is paving the way as a new leading, cost-effective solution for installing fiber-optic cable along paved rights-of-way. Unlike traditional installation methods, microtrenching cuts a narrow, shallower trench – deep enough to get under the upper layer of solid ground, but shallow enough not to interfere with existing utilities. The new Ditch Witch Fiberblade helps reduce cost-per-foot on fiber jobs when compared to traditional installation methods. The blade cleanly slices through asphalt or concrete to create the ideal trench for fiber install in one quick, efficient pass and with minimal disruption to surrounding infrastructure, saving time and money. This presentation will discuss microtrenching as an emerging solution for fiber installation, reasons for its growth and associated benefits to the solution. It will also touch on Ditch Witch microtrenching systems, including the tractor, attachments, blades and vacuum excavators, to help operators maximize performance and profitability on a variety of fiber-installation jobs.
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