Certified Outside Plant Technician (COPT®)

Fibre To The Everything (FTTx), learn how to construct high capacity, high quality external fibre optic networks to meet the demand of smart technologies of the future.

Big data is getting bigger, the development of smart technology devices and the concepts of the Internet of Things (IoT), smart homes, smart buildings and smart cities are driving a significant demand for wider network accessibility. Improvements in wireless technology and the increased deployment of wireless access points along with the rollout of small-cell technology (5G) aims to meet the growing demand for access. Underpinning all of this, as well as the UK government strategy for a ‘full fibre broadband’ access, is the need for a significant growth in the national fibre optic network structure.

The five-day Certified Outside Plant Technician (COPT^®) program is a comprehensive program perfect for those with 2-3 years’ experience within network infrastructure who wish to extend their knowledge, practical hands-on skills, qualifications and certifications into deployment of fibre optic connectivity in the external environment.

Learners can take their existing network cabling knowledge and skills to the next level by gaining a valuable insight into external fibre network distribution strategies, infrastructure components and installation methods. Passive Optical Networking (PON) features heavily as the primary delivery technology for fibre broadband to the home. Methods used for distribution will also feature, exploring the benefits and rationale behind the choice to distribute services underground or overhead.

Focused practical hands-on sessions are incorporated throughout this program, including the implementation of in-line splicing, high fibre-count distribution, Multi Dwelling Unit (MDU) cabinet installation and customer connection drops. Blown fibre practices also feature.

The duration of this program is five days; the content is comprehensive and detailed allowing network infrastructure professionals to have the potential to add real value to their skills by including these complex areas in their product/service portfolio. A COPT^® will be undaunted when dealing with complex external fibre networks, able to rationalise the network structure and understand the functions of installed components.

A certified COPT^® also considers the requirements for compliance, having a full understanding of national and international regulations, codes and standards. During the program learners will be provided a valuable opportunity to access the latest industry standards.

Following this program, you are encouraged to continue your professional development by advancing your knowledge and skills to gain further official certifications and qualifications by progressing through The Global Digital Infrastructure Education Framework which maps education programs to career advancement throughout the network infrastructure and data centre sectors.

The COPT^® program is classroom-based and led by one of CNet’s expert Instructors.