As a telecommunications company, United and Turtle Mountain Communications is committed to providing strong, clear, and reliable services to our customers. Part of this commitment is our investment in our robust fiber-optic network.
Since we first broke ground on fiber installation in the 1990s, our company has expanded fiber coverage to nearly all of our customers, many of whom are in rural areas, on tribal lands, or both. We continue this important work to ensure the communities we serve are equipped with the broadband infrastructure they need to thrive.
Keep reading to learn more about fiber-optic cable and the benefits of using this innovative technology to communicate with your world, now and in the future.
What is Fiber-Optic Technology?
Fiber-optic cable is cutting-edge technology that transmits data with light pulses through glass fibers instead of traditional copper wire. Every cable contains hundreds of fibers that are each about the size of a human hair. Although these fibers are small, they are mighty in their capacity to travel long distances and deliver gig-capable telecommunications services to homeowners and businesses.
Although fiber-optic technology has been around since the middle of the 20th century, rapid installation of fiber for the public began in the 1980s and 1990s, especially after the invention of the worldwide web spurred greater demand for the instant transfer of digital data.
Now, fiber-optic cables are installed all over the world, including our service area in upper North Dakota. These networks continue to expand as people rely more on the internet to work, learn, and play.
Benefits of Fiber
Ultra-Fast Speeds
Fiber-optic technology offers the fastest, gig-capable telecommunications speeds available today. Fiber-powered internet, phone, or TV services allow you to quickly upload and download large files, stream HD videos, or conduct a video conference without dealing with long waiting times or “buffering” messages.
Higher Bandwidth
In addition to fast speeds, fiber-optic technology has higher bandwidth – or the maximum amount of data transmitted through a connection at any given time. This allows everyone in your household to stream, work, or game at the same time. It also supports all the smart devices in your home without slowing down your internet connection.
Reliable Connections
Fiber delivers strong internet signals that are less susceptible to interference or deterioration than copper cable, making it a more secure and reliable broadband option for yourself and your family.
Sustainable Technology
While broadband will continue to evolve over the years, fiber networks anticipate future user demand, as fiber has at least 500 times more capacity than other internet technology. Additionally, fiber costs less to upgrade and maintain, ensuring that fiber internet services will stay accessible and efficient for years to come.
Laying the Groundwork
At United and Turtle Mountain Communications, keeping our communities connected will always be our top priority. We continue to expand and improve our fiber-optic network, which now spans hundreds of miles throughout our service areas, to offer quality broadband services that strengthen our communities and enhance quality of life for our customers.
We are also proud to be recognized as a gig-capable provider of the Smart Rural Community, a group of rural broadband providers who are vetted by the Rural Broadband Association based on their commitment to driving growth and creating opportunities for the communities they serve.
To learn more about our fiber-optic network or how to sign up for our fiber-powered television, phone, or internet services, contact our friendly team today!
