Fiber networks to support gigabit Internet services are major trend in telecom space
Service providers are working to extend fiber networks to support ever-faster Internet speeds to meet the booming demand for mobile and streaming video applications. In its latest Mobility Report, Swedish telecom infrastructure vendor Ericsson found the average number of connected devices per U.S. households was 5.2 in 2014.
To support fiber deployments, Ericsson has partnered with underground equipment companies Ditch Witch and Vermeer to streamline telecom fiber deployments. Specifically, Ditch Witch and Vermeer will share equipment, training and field support with Ericsson; the goal is to establish work crews equipped with the best training and state-of-the-art tools.
Ericsson said, “Fiber is a key component for the next-generation all-optical IP network,” and the new partnerships will allow Ericsson to “deliver unmatched scalability and startup times for its customer[s’] fiber projects.”
Angel Ruiz, head of Ericsson North America, said: “By working with industry-leaders Ditch Witch and Vermeer, Ericsson can deliver both the network design expertise and the quality fiber deployment services at the scale needed to meet the need of our North American customers. This makes Ericsson extremely unique in the industry.”
The new service offering will complement Ericsson’s Fiber Network Deployment solution, which combines professional services, including planning and design, in an effort to lower total cost of network ownership.
Ditch Witch President Dennis Wierzbicki said the company “and its strong dealer network are looking forward to partnering with Ericsson by providing innovative equipment, service and support. This builds upon our organization’s commitment to customers.”
The fiber space is particularly competitive in the U.S. market with established triple-play firms like Comcast, AT&T and Verizon Communications building out networks, especially in metro markets, while upstarts like Google Fiber are driving even more competition to the space.
