For 70 years, EATEL has remained committed to meeting local needs with the finest communications solutions available. One of the industry's most recent advancements -- fiber optic technology -- provides exciting benefits that far surpass traditional wiring, cabling and satellite services. Today, we're pleased to offer all essential communications and entertainment services to you over our new, state-of-the-art EATEL fiber optic network. And with access to our advanced network, your home will become "EATEL FiberEdgeSM Certified" and capable of receiving enhanced communication services.
What's "EATEL FiberEdge Certified" worth to you?
These days, more and more families are embracing the benefits of digital home communications and entertainment. In addition to the expanded bandwidth you receive -- which allows for more channels and faster Internet speeds, and faster than cable Internet service -- FiberEdgeSMCertified homes may realize increased property values and greater resale potential than homes without this technology.
About our network
EATEL is currently investing $44 million to build an advanced fiber optic infrastructure capable of serving thousands of customers in the Ascension area. The cost and coordination required to lay fiber optics is significant, but the quality, reliability and additional service capabilities for our customers far outweigh our costs. In fact, the EATEL network is among the finest in service -- one of only a few in the nation to run fiber directly to residents' homes.
A benefit-rich technology
The "fibers" in fiber optics are strands of transparent glass that transmit optical (light) signals carrying various kinds of data. These fiber strands are twisted into cables and buried underground to form a communications network -- and to customers, the advantages of fiber compared to standard wire are numerous:
Virtually unlimited bandwidth. Fiber's extremely high data capacity enables you to receive Voice, Television and Internet services over the same line. It also gives you the fastest residential Internet service available (up to 10 Mbps and faster than cable Internet); more television entertainment choices (including high-definition content); and crystal-clear
voice services.
Greater reliability. Because it's mostly buried, the EATEL fiber network is less susceptible to South Louisiana weather and any resulting service interruptions. Fiber is also immune to electromagnetic interference and has high electrical resistance, making it safe to run near high-voltage areas.
Better service. Running fiber directly to your home allows for real-time monitoring and quicker response should there be a problem with your service.
Economic stimulation. An advanced communications infrastructure attracts businesses and homebuyers to Ascension Parish, increases EATEL's contribution to the local tax base and enhances the area's quality of life. Additionally, EATEL FiberEdgeSM Certified homes are expected to increase in value as they are wired for the latest technology.
How fiber gets to you
Step 1. It starts at the green pedestal. To build our fiber network, EATEL technicians are replacing the existing copper wiring in the green pedestal with higher-capacity fiber cables. (This work is done primarily within existing servitudes and right of ways.) The fiber line is connected to the network access terminal (green EATEL pedestal) near the corner of your property. It may be necessary in some cases to remove some shrubbery or landscaping during this process, but it will be replaced to its original condition.
Step 2. Run a service drop. In order to receive fiber services in your home, EATEL technicians will run a "service drop" (buried or aerial fiber line) from the network access terminal (the green EATEL pedestal) to the side of your home. This is your direct connection to the EATEL fiber network. No other local provider brings fiber -- and all of its advantages -- directly to your home. (The EATEL work crew will make every effort to minimize any effects to your yard and landscaping. To request repairs that we may have overlooked, please call 225-621-3811.)
Step 3. Connect the service drop to the Optical Network Terminal (ONT). At the side of your house, typically next to the power meter, we will install the ONT, which receives the fiber line from the network access terminal.
Step 4. Connect ONT to existing wiring and install power supply. After the ONT is in place, we will install the power supply and backup battery inside your home -- in some instances we may install the battery backup outside. This will require EATEL to run a power cable from the power supply to the ONT. At this point, your home is fully equipped to receive EATEL FiberEdgeSM Voice local and long distance phone service and TV (non-digital) service.
Step 5. Additional Installation Step for FiberEdgeSM High-Speed Internet Customers. An EATEL technician will run an Ethernet Cat-5 cable from the O NT to a computer within your home. FiberEdgeSM Internet service does not require a modem. (Installation fees may apply.)
Step 6. Additional Installation Step for FiberEdge
SM Digital TV Customers. An EATEL technician will install a digital converter -- commonly known as a "set-top box" (STB) -- to your television(s). The technician will test the system(s) to ensure proper function, and will walk you through the specific features and functions of the service you have purchased. (Installation fees may apply.)
Get more information
To learn more about our FiberEdge services, you can:
We're here to help. To learn more about the EATEL fiber network, the home installation process, or EATEL FiberEdgeSM Phone, Internet and TV services, give us a call at 621-4300 or email us at webmaster@eatel.com.
communications solutions available. One of the industry's most recent advancements -- fiber optic technology -- provides exciting benefits that far surpass traditional wiring, cabling and satellite services. Today, we're pleased to offer all essential communications and entertainment services to you over our new, state-of-the-art EATEL fiber optic network. And with access to our advanced network, your home will become "EATEL FiberEdge
