How to Install Fiber Optic Cable to a TV

Fiber optic cable is an excellent option that provides increased bandwidth for enhanced HD and SD television viewing. However, availability is still limited, and you may not have the option of fiber optic cable in your area. Fiber optic cable relies on a network of fiber optic wiring that needs to be set up in your area. As long as it's available, hooking up fiber optic cable is a simple, step-by-step process.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Fiber optic availability

1. Contact local providers. Contact local cable companies in your area to see if they offer fiber optic service. If so, get all the details and set up an appointment. Verizon's FIOS service is one popular fiber optic network.

2. Meet with the cable technician. He'll want to know where you intend to watch television. He'll need to install a fiber optic box called an Optical Network Terminal on the side of your home and then route wiring to your existing home coaxial network.

3. Allow technician to set up the appropriate equipment. This could take a while, depending upon the condition and location of your home wiring.

4. Connect the cable box. Run a coaxial cable from the appropriate jack to the input on the cable box. Run HD or SD video cable from the cable box to your television video input. Use HDMI or component video for HD reception. Connect the audio separately using digital or analog outputs, unless you used HDMI cable, which also transmits audio.

5. Be sure to test out your cable and run through the channels while the technician is there to make sure it is working properly.

Tips & Warnings

• An adult over the age of 18 will need to be available for set-up appointment date. Be sure to allot enough time to be home (at least four hours) as set up could take a while.

Resources

• Verizon FIOS
• Comcast Fiber Optic