- Fact: Fiber demand has accelerated rapidly around the globe over the last few years.
This was first driven by Verizon’s FIOS rollout, then by a variety of installations in China, and most recently by the many broadband stimulus efforts around the globe, including the U.S., U. K., and Australia. - Fact: The earthquake in Japan contributed to shortages
Japan is home to many major optical fiber and preform producers and the earthquake and the tsunami that followed did considerable damage to at least some of the manufacturing facilities of the world’s leading optical fiber suppliers. - Fact: Fiber Optic cable is still available
Anticipating the shortages caused by demand, and in response to the earthquake,manufacturers such as Corning, Draka, and Prysmian have ramped up production to meet the needs of providers. - Fact: Delays are present, but not all initiatives are being affected in the same way
According to a variety of reports from service providers across the U.S., average delivery times for cable orders are running between 16 and 24 weeks, although we have heard a range of anywhere between 12 and 52 weeks. The good news – it’s likely to get better this fall as many damaged facilities come back online.
What can you do about it?
- Shop Around
Although it has been rumored that certain manufacturers are expediting orders for loyal customers, it has also been shown that large differences exist between sources. - Work with Consulting Engineers and Partners
Volume counts and CEs and partners can combine their clout to be heard by the fiber manufacturers.
- Weigh your Time-to-Market Against Delays
Although your up front costs might be slightly higher than anticipated, being first to market with a fiber access deployment potentially locks out any other service provider.
What are you seeing? Are you planning a fiber rollout and, if so, are you seeing cable shortages? Let us know how you’re planning around the lead times.
Comments
