The digital economy is expanding rapidly, and global data usage is expected to surge significantly in the coming years. 

To support this growth, fibre-optic networks are essential, serving as the backbone of the digital infrastructure. 

However, the challenge lies in deploying these networks quickly and efficiently. This is where geospatial data plays a pivotal role. 

With advancements in mobile mapping, particularly Lidar technology, high-speed fibre-optic internet can be made accessible to more people, unlocking immense opportunities.

A robust fibre-to-the-home (FTTH) or fibre-to-the-premises (FTTP) infrastructure is critical for a fully digital economy. 

This technology provides reliable, high-speed internet directly to homes, apartments, and businesses using optical fibre. 

The COVID-19 pandemic greatly accelerated the demand for FTTH as remote work increased the need for fast, dependable internet. 

While emerging technologies like laser-based and quantum internet are under development, FTTH remains the fastest available solution for now.

Bridging the Connectivity Gap

Despite advancements, internet speeds and accessibility still vary globally. 

According to the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), some countries are ahead, while others lag behind. 

For example, in the Netherlands, telecom provider KPN offers internet speeds of up to 4 gigabits per second (Gbps) to consumers and small businesses. 

Although this speed is incredibly fast, it may not be necessary for everyone; for smaller households or businesses, speeds of 100 megabits per second (Mbps) are often sufficient.

The European Commission aims to provide a Gbps connection to every household and business in the European Union by 2030 as part of its Digital Decade agenda.

 In the USA, a similar initiative is underway. The government has allocated $65 billion through the Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) program to ensure every citizen has access to reliable and affordable high-speed internet.

 In China, national strategies like the 'Broadband China' plan require operators to offer speeds of 100 Mbps or more in urban areas and extend FTTH to 98% of villages in rural regions.

 This massive effort has resulted in the installation of nearly five million kilometers of optical fibre cables last year alone, bringing the total to 64.32 million kilometers.

Building FTTH Networks with Geoinformation

The construction of FTTH networks involves careful planning, including selecting the right network architecture, designing efficient fibre distribution paths, determining splitter locations, and managing installation logistics.

 Factors like subscriber density, geographic challenges, and the potential for future expansion are also crucial considerations. 

During implementation, using pre-terminated cabling and efficient network management can enhance both the network's reliability and cost-effectiveness.

Geospatial data is at the heart of the FTTH ecosystem, offering survey companies a valuable opportunity to participate in this market. 

Although general mapping data from sources like Google Maps, Microsoft Bing, OpenStreetMap, and national mapping agencies can be useful, they are often outdated. 

The FTTH Council Europe, in its FTTH Handbook, advocates for the use of up-to-date mobile mapping surveys as the most effective way to gather the necessary information.

Throughout various phases of a fibre-optic network project, it is essential to capture and assess environmental data such as ground cover, the location of existing cables, electricity poles, trees, traffic signs, road infrastructure, and building facades. 

For instance, knowing the surface type before laying FTTH cables can significantly reduce costs since there is a considerable difference between digging through concrete or asphalt versus sand or grass.

By leveraging geospatial data, the deployment of fibre-optic networks can become more efficient, ultimately facilitating faster internet access for individuals and businesses worldwide.

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