Fios Installation

Installation of Fios to a home or business is a fairly intensive and expensive task for Verizon Fios installers. Luckily homeowners don't have to worry about that. Verizon is spending billions on the new Fios network and installs with the intention of recouping the costs over the next 30+ years. A typical install usually takes 4-6 hours and consists of the following:

Fiber Optic Cable Placement:

This actually takes place prior to the arrival of the Verizon installer. A Verizon subcontractor will place a dedicated fiber optic cable from the nearest Fios hub to your home. This is either done through underground conduits (already in place) or on aerial telephone poles.

Optical Network Terminal (ONT):

This box is usually mounted on an outside wall of your home. It takes the fiber optic cable from the Fios network and turns the optical signal into ethernet for your broadband connection, coaxial for Fios TV distribution, and a standard phone line for POTS distribution.

Battery Backup Unit (BBU):

This device is usually installed inside close to the ONT and an available electrical outlet. The BBU provides power to the ONT and also battery power if the power goes out (for emergency communication). The ONT requires power from each residence since the Fios network is fiber optic, power cannot be transmitted like with copper lines.

Cable Distribution:

The ethernet, coaxial, and phone connections are connected to the existing cable distribution, and new cable is laid (usually through the attic) if necessary. Since most homes do not have CAT5 cable distributed, in most cases, the installer will have to install new cable to the computer location.

Router and Set Top Box (STB) Setup:

Once the network and cables are up and running, the router is installed and activated. Currently Verizon is installing either the D-Link DI-624 or the Actiontec MR424 routers. Both have wired and wireless LAN capability. If Fios TV has been ordered, then the STB connected to each TV and activated. Currently Verizon is using the Motorola QIP-2500 for standard definition, the Motorola for QIP-6200 for high definition, and the Motorola QIP-6416 for DVR and high definition capabilities.

Verification of Services:

Finally the installer will check to make sure all services ordered are working properly, i.e. movie channels, HD channels, etc. Once this is complete, you should never need the installer again and you'll permanently be connected to the Fios network, capable of receiving tons of services and future features. This Fios TV article has actual photos from a Fios installtion.

Can you get Fios TV?