FTTh Design and Deployment Guidelines for Civil Work,

Fiber Distribution and Numbering

Hadi A. Hmida (PhD), IEEE Member
R&D Department, Saudi Telecom P.O.Box 87912 Riyadh 1165, KSA
hhmida@stc.com.sa

Garth C. Cordner
Network Planning department, Saudi Telecom P.O.Box 87912 Riyadh 1165, KSA
gcorner@stc.com.sa

Abdulwaheed Amer
Access Network Department, , Saudi Telecom P.O.Box 87912 Riyadh 1165, KSA
akamer@stc.com.sa

Furaih F. Shalan
R&D Department, Saudi Telecom P.O.Box 87912 Riyadh 1165, KSA
fhsalan@stc.com.sa

Abstract: This article highlights a new FTTh design and deployment guidelines suitable for
industrial and residential deployment in green field areas. We introduce civil work guidelines:
manhole and hand-hole sizes their location, duct and sub-duct structure and section and route
selection, cable vault entrance. Cable distribution and numbering guidelines: fiber feeder
(primary) design, fiber distribution (secondary) design, fiber drops, fiber distribution terminals
(FDT) cabinet sizing and numbering, fiber access terminal (FAT) DP Sizing, Splitters output,
distribution types design (centralized, cas caded, and hybrid). Also we propose a new numbering
procedure and stencil information, and type of fiber optic to be used for FTTh deployment. We
describe our experience where these guidelines were applied to build an FTTh access network
for residential industrial areas.

©2006 Optical Society of America

OCIS codes: (060.0060) Fiber optics and optical communications; (060.42500) Networks
1. Introduction
In Public Switching Telephone Networks (PSTN) subscriber's interconnection medium is copper pairs based in a
point -to-point topology. Its deployment in the primary and secondary sections follows civil work and cable
distribution guidelines developed a long time ago . Manholes and handholes used for copper splicing and
interconnection can have range of size (∼3mx3mx3m for manhole, and ∼1.5mx1.7mx1.2m for handholes).
Fiber to the home (FTTh) is a new broadband access technology. Ultimately it will gain ground step by step
against DSL technology. Telco's in the Middle East choose to lay fiber in green field in preparation to provide
FTTh service for residential and business areas. It has an impact on future manholes and handholes size and in the
civil work infrastructure in general. For its deployment FTTh guidelines are required. The existing copper
deployment guidelines are obsolete and can not be used.
In this paper we emphasize a new FTTh design and deployment guidelines suited for large deployment in
green field. We will introduce civil work guidelines: manhole and hand-hole sizes their location, duct and sub-
duct structure and section and route selection, cable vault entrance. Cable distribution and numbering guidelines:
fiber feeder design, fiber distribution design, fiber drops, fiber distribution terminals (FDT) cabinet sizing and
numbering, fiber access terminal (FAT) DP Sizing, Splitters Output, distribution types design. Also we will
propose a new numbering procedure and stencil information, and type of fiber optic to be used for FTTh
deployment.
2. Fiber to the home (FTTh) concept
FTTh network is a broadband access technology suited to provide triple play services (voice, data, and video) up
to 20km distance from central office. Three PON standards have been developed: GPON ITU G.984, BPON ITU
G.983, and EPON IEEE802.3ah) [1,2,3]. The generic topology comprises Optical Line Termination (OLT)
equipment installed at Central Office (CO) interconnected to the public network (PSTN and Data) via V5.2 and
STM1-4/GE interfaces. Splitter is used to drop fiber to different users as depicted in Figure (1).

Home Network
Central Office
EMS Fiber Distribution

Gb/STM1-4 Splitters RJ-11

IP/ATM
network
OLT Gb /STM- 1/4 ONT RJ-45
COAX

V5.2
PSTN

20Km

Fig. 1. Example of Passive Optic Networks (xPON)

3. FTTH Design Considerations

FTTx network is very similar in design and layout to copper network. It consists of Feeder (primary) and
Distribution (secondary) cable routes, Distribution Terminals (cross connect cabinets), Access Terminals
(distribution points) and Drop Cables (buried service wires). Two network topologies are available in an FTTx
type network as a result of the splitter arrangements: centralized and cascade (tree/distributed) topologies.
Depending on the nature/classification and the density of the area, a suitable topology should be chosen and
applied, meeting sound engineering and economic principles.

Closure with Splitters NT

FAT
NT
OLT Feeder Cable Distribution Cable Drop 2-4 Fibers
FDT e.g. 24/36/96 Fibers
ODF e.g. 24/36/96 Fibers

Cabinet with
Splitters MDU/NT

OLT - Optical Line Terminal Closure with Splitters

FDT - Fiber Distribution Terminal Copper
FAT - Fiber Access Termina l
NT – Network Terminal

Fig. 2. Typical fiber network topology

The following should be considered during the design of an FTTx network:
• Eliminate splices in exchange cable vault, by terminating FOC directly to the OLT. Fire retardant duct
should used to protect the cable in the building.
• Allocate one fiber optic cable per sub-duct
• Follow the racking plan in manholes and indicate the jointing arrangement and dark fiber position on all
work plans.
• Allow for fiber optic cable slack in manholes or hand holes to be able to raise joint above ground and for
maintenance purposes (i.e. cable breaks). Suggested allowance should be ±40m per section length of
cable.
3.1 Feeder Design
A Feeder (Primary) route is considered as that portion of the route commencing from the exchange (OLT) and
ending at a single/multiple splitter arrangement or customer premises. Normally, depending on topology, this
portion of the network is provided over long distances, with the objective of minimizing splice points and splitters
in the network. Splitters may be found/housed in Distribution Terminals, Manholes, Handholes or Access
Terminals. A number of key points should be considered when designing a primary route:
• The location and routing of feeder (primary) routes should take into consideration the over all “link
budget” ~ 25dB and the position of easy access facilities housing splitters.
• The size of the Feeder (primary) Fiber Optic cable should meet the ultimate requirement as far as
possible to save in cost for Fiber deployment and to optimize use of terminal equipment.
• The Fiber Optic cable design point is determined by the formula (1):

FOC size (nearest cable size) = PD + G + S (1)

G: Growth
PD: Present Demand
S: Stumps for any unforeseen demand and maintenance

3.2 Distribution Design

A distribution (secondary) route is considered as that portion of the route commencing from the Fiber Distribution
Terminal (FDT) and ending at a single or multiple splitter arrangement. The splitters may be housed in Fiber
Access Terminals (FAT). This portion of the network is also affected by topology type. For centralized topology,
the secondary network should be restricted to short lengths (± 1 km) of fiber and cater for long term needs (i.e.
lots of spares). Where a distributed (cascade) topology exists, longer secondary lengths will be found, resulting in
many more fiber management points (FMP) in the network. Splitter devices may be installed in Pedestals (DP) or
inside manholes and hand-holes. Termination of F.O.C in splitters located an FDT is incremental. Splitters should
be optimized prior to installing additional splitter devices to provide relief.
3.3 Fiber Drops
Fiber drops by nature are small capacity fiber cables which leave a FAT and terminate in Customer Premises
Equipment (CPE). They should be limited to very short distances ranging from a few meters to a maximum
distance of 200m. Exceptions are permissible but should not be the norm. A single fiber drop cable occupies a
dedicated conduit which enters customer’s premises. Fiber drops may be factory made consisting of pre-
terminated connector panels in the splitters which eliminates jointing of fibers at both ends of the drop point. Fiber
sizing used is 2 fibers for residential - one being active and the other spare for maintenance. For businesses units,
the size of fiber drops will depend on the demand and type of services required.
3.4 Fiber Distribution Terminals (FDT) Cabinet Sizing & Numbering
A Fiber Distribution Terminal (FDT) is designed to terminate, splice and interconnect fiber optic cables (primary
& secondary) in an outside plant environment. Fibers are terminated on standard adapter panels (12-packs, 8-
packs, 6-packs, etc) that are easily accessible inside the unit. Fibers may be spliced using standard splice trays for
ribbon or individual lo ose-tube fibers
3.5 Fiber Access Terminal (FAT) DP Sizing
Fiber Access Terminal is used to interconnect the distribution network with the drop fiber network. FATs are
limited in capacity by design and therefore should be located as close as possible to a serving area. The FAT size
Boxes should be sized to house 1:32 or 1:64 splitters.
3.6 Splitters Output

In centralized distribution, 1:N splitters are sized to be of maximum based on the adopted GPON standard. It
might be 1:32 or 1:64 splitting. In cascaded distribution for splitter with N outputs, the following cascading
combination should follow: (1:2 + 1:N/2), (1:4 + 1:N/4) and (1:8 + 1: N/8) and so on (1:m + 1:N/m) where m is
the first split ratio. The splitter nearest to the OLT shall receive the first number with the balance of the splitters
being numbered consecutively. All splitters will be numbered and numbers should be reflected in all design
drawings.
4. Civil Work Design
Network topologies consist of manholes which will provide access to backbone optical fiber cables contained in
the duct structure. Hand-holes may be used in the distribution network for the deployment of fiber drops.
Manholes of “Type A” will primarily be used on these projects to house and gain access to splice points and
splitters, while hand holes will house and afford access to small F.O.C jointing arrangements, splitters and drop
points for fiber cables to customer premises.
Manholes will be connected or linked to each other by a number of Polyethylene Corrugated (PEC) ducts,
while manhole–hand hole and handholes –handholes will be linked by means of PEC (COD) and 50mm PVC
conduits in a number of configurations depending on design requirements. In both backbone and distribution
network, provisioning and dimensioning of conduits should meet with both present and future demands in order to
reduce future duct reinforcement and reinstatement costs.
Splice points will be located in the cable vault of the exchanges, and in manholes. In order to provide F.O.C
directly to customer premises, splitters, presently having a ratio of 1:32 are to be deployed in the F.O network to
facilitate fiber distribution, but in future, splitter ratio capabilities will be increased to 1:64, and 1:128. Splitters
are seen to be FMPs, providing flexibility, grooming and a splitting point. Splitters may be centralized in a cabinet
to cater for very large splitting arrangements, or they may be smaller in design and located in hand holes.
4.1 Conduit Overview
As indicated, PEC conduits [4] are to be used to facilitate the deployment of backbone F.O.C in the network.
However, in order to optimize duct use and save on cost, it is recommended that PEC (COD) ducts with a
minimum of 5 built in sub-ducts be used in the design of the network.
If a large area is to be planned where it is anticipated that FTTH technologies are to be deployed, the number
of PEC ducts to be provided between manholes should be dimensioned according to the following guidelines.
The total number of PEC (COD) ducts to be placed in the network should be calculated to meet the ultimate
requirements of the serving area. In order to do this, the number of sub-ducts are calculated, i.e. total # of sub-
ducts required = present & future demand (for all service providers) + one (1) for maintenance use.

Total # of PEC (COD) req. = (present & future demand + maintenance) (2)
5 (#of sub-ducts)

For the purpose of this project however, the backbone or primary route consist of a minimum of 2-way duct.
In branch or secondary routes, a 2-way duct, consisting of PEC (COD) conduit, is the minimum and may increase
depending on the cables entering and leaving the hand hole. One 50mm Ø PVC duct will be required for drop
fibers entering small business and residential customer premises. For industrial and large commercial and business
enterprises, one PEC (COD) duct with a minimum of 5 built in sub-ducts should be provided.
In order that the best use can be made of the duct structure for future cable placing operations, particular care
should be given to the location of manholes and hand holes.
The minimum and maximum manhole to manhole span length ranges between 300 to 2000m in a straight section
at 0o degree angle grade for fiber cable.
A continuous length of PEC sub-duct passes through intermediate manholes to ease hauling and optimize
maximum hauling distances of backbone F.O.C. After hauling, sub-duct is to be placed on supporting cable
bracket supports. Where bends are necessary, the radius should be as long as possible to reduce pulling tension
and allow for a longer manhole to manhole span length. Allowable maximum pulling tension for fibers is 510lbs.
Radius of curvature is minimized at 1 meter radius.
4.2 Duct Route Selection
The selection of a duct route is primarily influenced by the lay out of the fiber network and its associated passive
elements. However, other factors such as geographical land features, the safe location of infrastructure and
infrastructure belonging to other utility groups do have a major impact on the final route design. As already
mentioned, in FTTH network environment, individual fibers in a fiber cable are distributed throughout the
network by means of splitters.
 Each individual fiber in the backbone network is capable of serving 32, 64 or 128 customers respectively,
depending on the type of GPON technology and vendor equipment used in the network. For greater optimization
of the OLT in the exchange, a centralized splitter method is always the preferred method of distribution offering
greater flexibility, grooming and splitting options. It is more economical, easy to operate, maintenance free and
portrays less cable losses.
The economics of alternate route locations must be compared relative to permanence, safety and utilization.
The routes are selected to avoid future relocations and reinstatement costs.
Since fiber cables are not affected by the inductance of power cables, there is no restriction in laying optical
fibers nearer to power cables. A shared trench between fiber and power cables is possible. If the location is
already occupied by another utility, locate the trench line so that the duct structure will be free of possible
disturbance by other underground users. In doing so, (in Cities and Towns) the following should be considered:
a. Under the sidewalk is usually an excellent location, especially if the construction precedes the
laying of the sidewalk.
b. Between the sidewalk and the building line usually provides an undisturbed location. Between
the sidewalk and the curb is not the best location because of tree planting or possible
street widening.
c. In the street near the curb; if there is no other location available along the sidewalks.
4.3 Preliminary Investigations
OSP Network Engineering should be concerned about how the underground space is presently being used, the
needs of other users and future space requirements. If there is a joint planning committee of utilities, space should
be allocated with a restricted space for each user. Some municipalities have a planning group that maintains strict
control of underground space on municipal property. In areas such as these, underground space will be assigned
and there will be no other choice of location, except under unusual circumstances.
Where locations are not pre-assigned, all available street and road plans should be reviewed, including plans
concerning future road construction or widening projects. The designer should choose a location that will give
adequate protection from anticipated loads and provide sufficient clearance from existing structures. It may be
necessary to increase the depth of cover over the duct structure in those areas where the existing grade is to be
lowered. The greater initial cost will avoid costly rearrangements or cable damage at a later date. When this is
impractical, the designer should investigate the possibility of an alternate location for the proposed duct. Special
precautions must be taken when work is to be performed in the vicinity of other utilities. In some areas, local
municipal authorities may be able to provide information regarding the location of other underground structures.
Uncovering gas or oil pipelines always involves the possibility of encountering a gas or oil leak with the resultant
danger of fire or explosion. If there is any doubt as to the accuracy of existing records, the designer could request
the digging of test holes. Although test holes are expensive, they could prove to be a valuable aid and prevent
extensive changes after the duct work has started
Soil conditions should be investigated carefully. Unusual soil conditions such as high water table, or rock
should be avoided. These conditions can add significantly to cost of the construction, and rock excavation may
also require the use of dangerous explosives. Furthermore, unusual soil conditions will require special
consideration of the structure design.
For feeder duct spans which are usually connected by manholes, the standard duct structures as detailed in
existing training practices are based on the duct being placed in stable soil with 1000 mm (minimum) depth of
cover.
For distribution duct spans between hand holes and hand holes to customer premises, ducts should have
500mm (minimum) depth of cover.
The main consideration in concrete encased duct structures (between manholes only) is the tensile stress
resulting from all kinds of load affects on duct structures.
It is the designer's responsibility to be aware of any unusual depth requirements that are established for
underground structures. This particularly applies to crossing oil or gas pipelines. In an area where final grade has
not been established, the designer should make every effort to obtain the grade from the proper authorities. The
depth of installation that will achieve final standard cover should be shown on the work plans.
4.4 Manhole Location
There are two basic requirements for a manhole and its location. There must be a safe working area as well as a
suitable location for the placing, jointing, and maintenance of cables and equipment. Safety of the work area
should be a prime consideration. Sufficient space must be provided for cable trailers or "pulling in" trucks when
placing cable and the manhole should be placed in a location that can be protected from traffic.
Secondly, the manhole should be located that subsequent work operations will not interfere with pedestrian or
traffic flow. Information for manhole "Type A" is contained in Manhole Structures and Cover/Frame Assembly
TS4001 [5] & Manhole Accessories TS 4701 [5]. When the proposed location is along a road, the manholes
should be between the curb line and the property line, preferably under a sidewalk if it exists. Manholes should
not be located in the unpaved strip between traffic lanes. The manhole is not to be used to turn corners. Conduit
bends are to be used instead to turn corners. If the designer can not locate the majority of manholes in a safe
location, consideration should be given to using an alternate route for the duct structure.
OSP Network Engineering should give due consideration to road widening, highway improvements and
changing road level in areas where road construction is planned or being undertaken. Avoid placing manholes in
location such as a curve of the road or over the edge of a hill, flooding area...
4.5 Handhole Location
The two basic requirements applicable to manholes are mandatory in the location and construction of hand-holes,
i.e. safety & work operation. Handholes are to be located along sidewalks and footways.
Handhole to handhole coupling where a high fiber drop count is encountered, the use of PEC (COD) duct is
recommended. This method is the most economical and practical ensuring optimal use of duct in the network.
Information for handholes will be found in Handholes-DP, Polymer TS 4005 practices document [7].
When handholes are used as distribution points for residential customers, they should have a minimum of
4x50mm Ø conduit openings on opposite walls of the handhole, to be used for fiber drops, depending on the
network design. Large Commercial, Industrial and Business buildings should be provided with a short length of
PEC conduit from the handhole towards the respective establishment. The wall of the handhole facing the
customer premises should be provided with a single opening to accommodate fiber drops to the customer in a
distribution network.
4.6 Duct Structure Locations and Considerations
When designing duct formations, the designer should work towards orderly cable racking in the manhole. A single
racking is already enough to hold fibers and handle joints on each wall. Ducts must terminate in the hand-holes,
manholes or the Local Exchange in an orderly manner. Since FTTH will require very few ducts, it is practical that
the ultimate duct requirements should placed on the initial job. Subsidiary ducts or in other terms lateral ducts are
additional ducts that will be required to house cables that extend from the main duct line to buildings, poles, etc.,
along the duct route. Subsidiary ducts can be separate individual ducts or incorporated into the main duct
structure. When the subsidiary ducts are separate but placed at the same time as the main duct structure, they
should be located on top. If the termination point is known, or can be located approximately, the subsidiary duct
should be extended to that location. When the subsidiary duct is part of a multiple type duct structure, the upper
corner ducts should be reserved for subsidiary use, since they are more readily accessible.
The subsidiary duct should extend from the main duct structure to the termination point, at right angles and in a
straight line. This results in less excavating costs and keeps underground telephone plant in specific locations,
reducing the possibility of accidental cut off. Duct runs on private property should be planned in a location near
enough to the property line to avoid excavation for buildings and far enough away to avoid fence and wall
construction. When subsidiary duct is planned from the last manhole, and it is expected that the main duct run
could be extended in the same direction at a future date, it may be economical to extend the main run at the time
of placing the subsidiary duct.
In an FTTH network, the number of optical fiber cable drops to small businesses and residential units usually
consists of only one or two fibers. For commercial, industrial or large businesses, it may be economical and
practical to place only one duct (with 5 built-in sub-ducts) to every customer location. For residential
establishments, a 1x50mm duct should be used to accommodate drop fibers.
The designer should apply the same guidelines to calculate the length of subsidiary duct routes, as were used in
determining the length of main duct routes. Calculations should be based on the maximum span length taking into
consideration also the maximum pulling tension for fiber optic cable.
There are a number of factors that have a bearing on the shape of the proposed duct structure. Where costly paving
is involved, narrow and deep formations are advisable. In bare, sodden, loose or wet soils, a shallow wide
formation may be practical. Where rolling or splitting the duct structure to avoid subsurface obstructions is
anticipated, single bore duct is well suited. All un-terminated ducts and sub-ducts, such as those left below grade
for future extension, must be capped. All spare ducts must have pulling ropes of 8mm Ø installed inside ducts and
sub-ducts.
The minimum amount of space required for the duct structure will be determined by the type, size, and number
of ducts planned. Where no form work or sheeting is required, the width of the trench will be the width of the duct
formation plus the distance required on each side for working space, backfilling, or concrete encasement. The
depth of the trench will be the height of the structure plus the depth of cover and any top protection or bedding
requirement. Generally the minimum depth of cover under roadways subject to traffic is 1000mm, while along
branch or secondary roads where traffic is not concentrated, between 500mm to 1000mm depth of cover may be
allowed. Additional cover may be required in some locations for extra security or to meet special or local
Regulations. Where sheeting or shoring is required, width must also include the dimensions of the material used.
4.7 Duct Section Length Considerations
The objective should be to make the section lengths as long as possible and thereby reduce the number of
manholes and joints required. The length of duct sections will be influenced by the following:
• Frequency and location of large buildings, subsidiary ducts, branch joints, etc.
• Underground obstructions located between manholes.
• Intersection points with other duct routes.
• The need for intermediate manholes because of excessive pulling tensions.
• Locating manholes in a safe working location.

In urban areas the section lengths are usually relatively short because of the above considerations. Where
short sections are encountered (i.e. distances between manholes), it may be possible to arrange cable lengths so
that some cables may be pulled through intermediate manholes eliminating some jointing costs. It is suggested
that minimum manhole section lengths be approximately 300m and a maximum of 2000m, depending on design
conditions and limitations. When designing curves the designer must be familiar with standard duct materials,
fittings and construction methods in order to determine the practicability of the proposed design.
Pulling tension must not exceed 2.0 kN for duct cables and 1.0 kN for direct buried cables. The minimum
dynamic bending radius for moving cable is 20 times the outside diameter of the cable. The minimum static bend
for fixed cable is 10 times the outside diameter of the cable. If the cable is laid out on the ground, no traffic of any
form can be allowed to run over it. When an offset is required to cross from one side of the street to the other, the
designer should first determine what type of road crossings is permissible in the municipality. There may be a
restriction of the crossing angle.
4.8 Site Survey
A preliminary investigation of the area under study will yield sufficient information to permit the designer to
select a tentative location for the duct manholes. These must then be checked by a thorough site survey. During
site survey, note should be made of traffic patterns and other conditions to ensure that a safe working environment
can be maintained during the proposed construction. Particular attention must be given to obstructions in the
proposed line of construction.
Ducts crossing rivers, streams and dry stream beds should be replaced at a greater than normal depth.
Consideration should also be given to use of reinforcing steel, in a thicker than normal concrete envelope.
When unrecorded foreign pipes or structures that will interfere with the proposed duct run are discovered, every
effort should be made to determine their ownership and whether they are still in service or needed in the future. If
the foreign structure are working and cannot be removed, the location of the proposed duct system must be
changed.
OSP Network Engineering should note the measured distances from any fixed object that will assist him in
fixing the exact location of the duct structure. Important "tie in" measurements should be included in the final
work plans to assist the contractor and the contract inspector to build the structure in its proper location. Fixed
objects include curves, building walls, visible property lines, catch basins, sewer manholes, hydrants and
manholes. Notes should also be made of special construction details such as railroad crossings, bridge
attachments, abnormal soil conditions or pipeline crossings that might influence the cost or practical application of
the structure. Specific items that should be noted and reflected on the final work plans are:

1. Arrow indicating north direction, name of the street or lane where the duct system will be built,
also the names of intersecting streets.
2. Proposed location of the duct and manholes and measured distance to the nearest street, curb, or
property line.
3. Length of each duct section and subsidiary duct.
4. The number and location of the pole or building name where subsidiary duct should be terminated.
5. Railroad crossings, pipeline crossings, culverts, bridges or other structures requiring special
construction.

4.9 Cable Vault Entrance

The duct banks shall be located in a manner, which allows cables to be easily routed to the ODF without
encountering cable congestion in the long term. Cable entrance shall be located in the front of the building at the
end of the vault. The ducts entering the vault shall be positioned such that cables can be placed in their respective
positions with little or no bending. Ducts shall preferably enter the vault via pre-fabricated socket banks or plastic
terminators. The duct ends shall be beveled so as to remove any sharp edges.
The opposite wall to the duct entrance shall have two cast-in pulling-irons centered vertically and horizontally
with each duct entrance formation for the pulling of network cables. Pulling-eyes shall be anchored to resist a
pulling force of ~ 50K N. Access to the cable vault or exchange via a tunnel shall be prevented by suitable locking
facilities. Each cable shall be provided with adequate supports at approximately 100cm centers. In Manholes and
Vaults, joints shall be placed horiz ontally. A suitable rack shall support the joint. Supports shall be installed so as
not to hinder the installation of additional cables, and to allow adequate access for jointing purposes and
reasonable working space for maintenance. A working space of 100cm shall be achieved where possible.
Cable brackets, trays and supports, shall ensure that the cables are supported so as to induce the minimum
strain into the materials. Manufacturer installation recommendations shall be followed regarding handling,
bending and setting radii. No sharp edges and protruding bolts etc, which may damage cable sheaths, shall be
permitted. Anchors, bolts and similar fixing devices for concrete shall be installed as per the manufacturer’s
instructions in a neat and workman-like fashion.

6. Proposed Numbering and Stencil Information

Each cable terminated on the Optical Line Terminal shall be numbered in consecutive order and shall continue to
any Brach off cables. The cable number has 7 fields (Fi ) such as:

Cable # F 1 F2 F3 F4 F5 F 6 F7
Cable Number Duct assigned
Cable Type & Insulation Core and cladding fiber diameter
Active & Dead Fiber OLT PON #
OLT #

Each element in the network is numbered in accordance with a common numbering system or scheme. Numbering
starts with the first FDT nearest the OLT receiving the first number (direction clock wise). All FDT’s shall be
numbered and numbering should be reflected in all design drawings such as in figure (3).

FDT Id entification : Feeder # /FDT #

FAT Id entification : Feeder # /FDT# /FAT #
NT Identification: Feeder #/FDT # /FAT # / NT#
NT:04/00/00/01 NT:04/00/00/02 FDT
NT NT: 02/01/01/01
02/01 Distribution
NT NT NT:02/01/01/02
Drop NT
FAT
02/01/01
NT
NT 02/01/01/03
NT 03/01/01/01
FDT
Feeder 1 NT NT 03/01/01/02
Feeder 2 03/01
OLT Distribution NT
ODF Feeder 3
FAT
Feeder 4 NT
03/01/01
NT 03/01/01/03
FAT FDT
04/01/01 04/01
Distribution
FAT
NT 04/01/01/01 03/01/02

NT
Fig. 3. Numbering plan

7. FTTh Jubail-2 Project

Jubail-2 is the expansion of Jubail-1industrial area. It is a green field area under development in 4 stages dedicated
for new industrial settlement . Stage-1 will be achieved 2006 followed by stage 2 and so on over 5 years period.
Telecom infrastructure is planned to meet any telecom requirements during the coming 25 years. Around 30
industrial sites will be served by the newest and powerful broadband services. A new local exchange called Jubail-
2 (site #345) is dimensioned to provide broadband services such as (VoIP, fast internet, and video) via GPON
technology in the access and softswitch in the core. The local exchange will be integrated to ST network via STM -
64 SDH transport ring.

Router

GE
OLT ONU-1

ADM ADM Agg. Eth SW ONU-2

10GE
ST SDH
Network STM-64 Splitter
ONU-N
GE
Video
STM-1
Jubail- 2
Exchange

Soft switch

Fig. 4. Proposed Jubail-2 Telecom infrastructure

6.1 Core & Edge Network

SDH Transport system : The new exchange will be integrated into the existing ST network with new transmission
facility (STM-64 SDH ring and Add/Drop Multiplexer: ADM)
Local Telephone Switch: VoIP is adopted instead of TDM voice. The class 5 switch is Softswitch which will
provide IP telephony and ensures TDM traffic for toll calls especially.
Aggregator &IP/MPLS router: The aggregator is a carrier-class Ethernet/IP switch which provide 10/1
Gigabit Ethernet physical interfaces to OLTs, Softswitch, router and ADM. It ensures IP packets (VoIP, Data, and
VoD) travels locally inside Jubail-2 customers and to STC IP/MPLS core network. The IP/MPLS router manages
all IP traffics and as a Provider Edge (PE) allows the creation of Layer 3 IP/MPLS VPN networks for Jubail-2
industrial customers.

6.2 Access Network

GPON technology [2] will be deployed for delivering triple play services (voice, data, and video). It consists of
scalable Optical Line terminal (OLT) system, fiber distribution network and NT/ONUs. The Fiber Distribution
Network comprises fibers (feeder, distribution, and drop cables) and 64/128 splitters located in the Fiber
Distribution Terminal (FDT) cabinet. Two scenarios were envisaged point-to multipoint (PMP) and point to point
(PTP) topologies:

Scenario 1 PMP: each singl e fiber [8] out of 96 fibers cable laid from the CO (feeder) will be shared
between ten (10) customers. Six (6) fibers are dropped to each site (splitter 1:64) as
shown in Figure (5-7).
Scenario 2 PTP: each single fiber out of 96 fibers cable is laid directly to each site (one PON per site).
The splitter will be installed in the site itself. The drops are inside the site buildings.
For security 1 more fiber is laid (1 active and 1 spare).

8. Conclusion
These guidelines were developed for the sole purpose of providing a clear Guideline for the design and
deployment of FTTH in the industrial, commercial and residential areas in Jubail-2, Jalmudah & Yanbu, and are
not applicable to any other FTTH proposals. Generic FTTh guidelines are under development. The adoption of
FTTh point-to-point topology is very costly. But it is a smart choice with regard of economic importance of
industries settled in Jubail-2. Next Generation access network will be point to point topology fiber based exactly
similar to existing copper network. Only future will prove it.
 HH HH HH
NOTES:
1. Use PEC (COD) type duct with 5 built in subducts only . Depth of cover is 500mm.
6VS 4VS 2VS
MH 54
30 50 70 2. All proposed manholes are type A. Handholes are 2-cover .
50 4 HH HH HH
0 0 0 3. Install handholes along sidewalks and footpath, not on road side .
0V m2VS m1VS m
MH 53 3VS 4. Ring connectivity between Jubail 2 and Asasyah Exchanges is included.
mS
10 30 50 70 HH HH HH 70 50 30 10
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
450
HHm HHm HHm mHH V 0 HH HH HH HHm HHm HHm HHm
Sm
7VS
7VS 5VS 3VS 1VS 5VS 3VS 1VS
MH 64 MH 52 2VS 4VS 6VS
FAT MH 40
LEGEND
HH HH HH 50 HH HH HH HH HH 4
FAT 450 40 V
500m Existing manhole
V40VS 3VS 2VS 1VS V m 4VS 3VS 2VS 1VS 1VS 2VS 3VS 4VSS
Sm S
FAT HH
Proposed manhole
MH 51
MH 63 HH HH HH HH 120
HH HH HH HH HH HH HH HH MH 39 Handhole – customers drop
450 V0
450 100m 300m 500m 700m 4VS
V0 500m S m 1VS Existing conduit
HH V0 HH Sm 1VS
Sm 30m 20m HH
1VS 1VS MH 50 1VS 1VS HH Proposed conduit
30m 20m 20m MH 15
20m
MH 62 HH MH 38 4VS 500m Fiber Distribution Terminal
4VS 500m 4VS 500m HH 4VS
500m
MH 14 Fiber Access Terminal
MH 49
MH 61 MH 37
4VS 500m
4VS 4VS 500m
HH 500m HH HH HH 4 500m JUBAIL 2 – HH
V EXCHANGE ASASYAH
1VS 1VS MH 48 1VS 1VS 1VS 1VS HH
30m 20m 20m 20m MH 36 345-00 30m 20m
EXCH
MH 60 50 500m
4
FDT 500m
MH 13
500m
FDT
0
4 1VS
m
FDT HH HH
FDT 1 V 4VS
(346-00)
V 4VS 1 V S MH 218/M5
S HH V S 1VSHH
S 4VS 4VC
4VS 4VS 4VS 4VS 4VS 4VS 4VS 4VS 4VS
MH 59 500m 500m 500m 500m 500m 500m 500m 500m MH 218/M36
MH 35 MH 12 MH 1 2.7 km
MH 58 MH 47 MH 46 MH 45 MH 44 MH 34
500m 450 500m 4VS
4VS MH 65 4VS 5.6 km
V0 1VS 500m
Sm HH 30m
1VS 1VS 1VS 1VS 1VS
30m 20m MH 55 20m 20m MH 41 MH 16 20m HH
HH 500m HH 4VS
500m HH HH
500m 4VS 500m
4VS
4VS 1VS
MH 66 30m
MH 56 HH
MH 42 MH 17 4VC 3.0 km
500m
4VS 4VS 500m 1VS
20m 500m 4VS 500m
1VS 1VS 4VS
30m 20m 1VS HH
20m MH 43
HH MH 67 HH MH 57
HH 1VS 1VS
1VS 30m 20m
20m HH HH 11
MH 18 50
HH 0
4V m 7.0 km
S
4VC
Fig. 5. JUBAIL 2 - FTTH Civil work 4VS 4VS MH 272/M28
MH 19 1.5 km
MH 33
MH 272/M10

6 6 6
400 m
700 m F LEGEND
6 6 Existing manhole
6
100 400 700
MH 54 m m m Proposed manhole
500 m
Handhole – customers drop
6 6 6 Existing conduit
100 m 500 m
36F MH 53
500 m 100 m 400 m 700 m 500 m 100 m
Proposed conduit
300 m 700 m 24F 700 m 300 m
6 100 300 700 m
F 6 6F m6F m 6F 6 Fiber Distribution Terminal
6 6 6 6 6
6F
Fiber Access Terminal
MH 64 MH 52 MH 40
6 6 6 6F 6 6 6
36F 300 6 500 m
100 m
500 m 100 300 m 500 m m F 48F
48 F 500 m
6F 6F 6F 6 6F 6F 6F 6F 1700 m
100 m 6 6 6 MH 39
MH 63 6
300 500 m 700 m MH 51 8F
m FAT 1
FAT 2 6F 500 m MH 15
500 m

FAT 3 2.0 k m 6F
50 2.0 k m 1530 m
2.0 k m 8F MH 38 8F 1520 m
1000 m

1530 m 4 0 6F 8F 1520 m 8F
6F V m8F 1520 m 6F 1520 m 4
S MH 50 4VS/1000 m V 8F
8F MH 62 1000 m 8F S 520 m
4
1000 m V 4 MH 13 ASASYAH
8F MH 36 530 m
MH 60 S 520 m 8F V 500 m EXCH (346-00)
530 m MH 48 500 m 520 m JUBAIL 2 S
520 m FDT 3 EXCH
4VS/500 m

500 m 8F
FDT 4 FDT 1
8F FDT 2 36F

24F 36
96F
4VS 4VS MH 35 4VS 4VS
MH 59 1000m MH 47 2000 m 1000 m MH 12 2700 m
5600 m MH 1
500 m

8F 500 m 4 MH MH
V 4
500 m

16F 4 500 m 530 m 218/M5 218/M36

S 8F V
V 8F S 8F
8F S 520 m 520 m
520 m MH 41 96
8F 520 m MH 16
530 m MH 65 MH 55 1030 m 4 F
500 m

500 m

4
1000 m V
V
1000 m 8F S MH 17
8F 4 S
8F
V 1020 m
S 96 4
500 m 500 m

1520 m MH 42 1530 m F V
1520 m MH 57 4
500 m

8F V
S 8F 1520 m
1530 m 8F
MH 67 8F S MH
8F MH 43 4 272/M1
1520 m V 96F
S 4VS MH 33 1500 m
4VS
MH 19 7000 m MH
Fig. 6. JUBAIL 2 - FTTh Fiber cable Distribution Detail 272/M2
 Fig. 7. JUBAIL 2 - FTTH civil work

9. References
[1] ITU Standard G.983 "BPON Broadband Passive Optical Network" International Telecom Union Geneva (1993)
[2] ITU Standard G.984 "GPON Gigabit Passive Optical Network" International Telecom Union Geneva (2003)
[3] IEEE Standard 802.3ah "Carrier sense multiple accesses with collision detection (CSMA/CD) access method and physical layer
Specifications" USA (2002)
[4] ST PR-NW 1412-331 "Installation and Jointing Procedures of Polyethylene corrugated (PEC) Duct " STC (2004)
[5] TS4001 "Manholes structures and cover/frame assembly" Technical Specification STC (2004)
[5] TS4701 "Manholes accessories" Technical Specification STC (2004)
[7] ST4005 "Handholes DP, Polymer" Technical Specification STC (2004)
[8] ITU Standard G.652 "Characteristics of single mode optical fiber and cables" International Telecom Union Geneva (2003)