The NFOC conference is providing you with an abundance of Knowledge. Along with the training sessions, there is going to be a skills area where a number of vendors will demonstrate the usage of their products, and give you a hands-on experience that you can bring back to optimize your fiber optic projects.
The topics covered in our 20-Minute "Mini Workshops" last year were so popular that we're offering additional workshops for 2009. This year's Skills Training includes:
Learn how to install simple, low cost media converters to upgrade an existing coax CCTV system to provide extended transmission range as well as immunity from EMI. Also learn about fiber optic perimeter monitoring systems as a low cost solution for monitoring large areas.
The advent of digital video, particularly HDTV, has resulted in widespread use of special fiber optic broadcast cable. Expect wider use of these ultra-high performance cables, as more and more high bandwidth video applications are adopted by end users. You'll get to examine various types of broadcast cable and connectors, and receive information regarding their installation and use.
Training includes OTDR theory and use, anatomy of an OTDR trace and how to interpret it, rules of thumb for OTDR setups, OTDR tips and tricks, discussion of Fresnel reflections, Rayleigh backscatter, Index of Refraction and more.
Fusion splicing is the best way to permanently join two optical fibers, using an arc of electricity that's hotter than the surface of the sun! Try fusion splicing for yourself at this hands-on session.
Learn about a new type of fiber optic connector that combines the installation speed of a quick term connector with the strong, adhesive hold of an epoxy-style connector. Strive to "beat the clock" by terminating fiber in 2 minutes or less!
Participate in cleaning fiber optic connectors with a variety of cleaning products, including special cleaners for OSP applications. You will have the opportunity to clean both exposed jumpers and connector ports in bulkhead adapters. Included in the demonstrations are new "green" cleaning solvents that are non-hazardous, highly effective and safe for transport.
Multimode fiber continues to be the fiber of choice for LAN applications, and the latest bend insensitive fibers are well suited for tight confines of equipment closets and rackmounts where excessive bending of fiber could be a problem. Many types of multimode fiber optic cable exist – learn what’s right for any given application.
Learn how to use an inspection microcope to inspect the glass core of a fiber optic connector endface. Learn the degree to which the quality and cleanliness of a connector endface will affect system performance. Learn how to determine which connectors can be "fixed" through endface repolishing and which ones must be discarded.
This session covers the proper techniques to prepare your OSP closures to ensure the protection of your outside plant fibers and splices during installation and from environmental conditions. Also, proper use is covered for a variety of applications such as aerial, building mount and direct burial. Discussion includes the most appropriate applications for OSP closures and when and how to use them.
This session covers the proper tools and techniques to install your bulk and pre-terminated fibers to prevent damage and ensure proper performance once installed. Areas of focus are conduit pulling, floor and ceiling pulling, and floor to floor drops.
Hands on training on Tier 1 & Tier 2 testing, troubleshooting, certification and documentation. This Skills Session covers test setups, time savers, standards and setting pass/fail limits. Learn how to review test results on an OTDR and how to use a PC to generate reports.
Fiber optic connectors are the most problematic components in an optical network. Network performance is optimized when proper steps are taken to ensure low-loss fiber connections. This Skills Session covers the basic principles and procedures necessary to achieve efficient fiber connections. These include best practices for fiber handling and essential tools needed for every technician who handles optical fiber.
For more information on the skills workshop area or if you are a vendor attending and you want to participate in this great hands-on section at the conference contact Amy Howlett, Marketing Coordinator.
Pre-Register online for NFOC and save time at the door!

The NFOC can provide the BICSI Continuing Education Credits (CEC's) you may need toward maintaining your professional certifications. The number of CEC's available for each of the NFOC Learning Sessions are listed on the Learning Segments page.
BICSI CEC's are available to individuals who hold one or more BICSI certifications. By earning CEC's, individuals are able to document that they have participated in certain professional development activities during BICSI's certification renewal period.
If you are not a BICSI member, we encourage you to become one. The knowledge you gain through BISCI membership and the coursework required for BICSI certification can help you achieve your career objectives. Maintaining your BICSI certification also demonstrates to your customers and colleagues that you keep current on developments in our evolving industry. For information regarding BICSI membership, courses and certifications, visit their website, www.bicsi.org.
BICSI information will also be available at NFOC.