KMTelecom Fiber is an exciting new project to build one of the most advanced telecommunications networks in the country, replacing the existing telephone wires. Part of this project is to bring Fiber to the Home (FTTH) technology to homes in our area. This technology will enable customers to receive ultra-fast internet as well as advanced TV and phone services.
FIBER BASICS AND BENEFITS
Why do I want fiber?
Fiber Optics deliver communication services with future technological advancements that we can only imagine today.
The benefits today are many:
- Incredibly fast Internet download and upload speeds that are fantastic for video, audio, web surfing and gaming.
- Digital TV with clear picture and sound, high definition and digital video recording options.
- Feature rich phone service with crystal clear connection.
- It’s the latest in technology giving KMTelecom the ability to offer future communication and entertainment services.
Fiber is truly the highest quality and most reliable for delivering Internet, TV and Phone services.
What does Fiber to the Home mean?
Fiber to the Home (FTTH) is the delivery of communications signals over fiber optics from a central network point directly to a home or business, replacing copper telephone wires or coaxial cable. Fiber is the only medium that can keep up with the rapidly rising demand for more bandwidth and faster speeds, so having FTTH equips a home or business for the best in communications services.
What are the benefits to me in having fiber connected to my home?
A FTTH connection to your home will provide you with many benefits including:
- Access to faster internet speeds, with plans up to 1 Gig
- Upload speeds as fast as download speeds
- Greater bandwidth capacity
- Superior service stability and reliability
- Enhanced productivity while working/studying online or using cloud storage
- Improved experience while streaming video, online gaming, and video conferencing
- Increased home value
- Availability of Digital TV with High Definition and Whole Home DVR services
- More opportunities for economic vitality, communication, information, and entertainment
It just makes sense to take advantage of everything fiber has to offer.
What internet speeds will be available for my home with a fiber connection?
KMTelecom Fiber will offer a range of internet speeds up to the unbelievably fast 1 Gig, which is equivalent to 1,000 Mbps. Our residential fiber internet plans will start at 200 Mbps. So for example, if you currently have an internet plan with 20 Mbps speed — about average for a U.S. household — KMTelecom Fiber’s 200 Mbps speed will be 10 times as fast! That’s a difference you’ll instantly notice. You can also choose the popular 300 Mbps or 500 Mbps plans as well, depending on the needs of your household.
Can having FTTH increase my home’s value?
Yes, according the Fiber to the Home (FTTH) Council Americas, FTTH can increase a home’s value by about 3 percent, which would be several thousand dollars for a typical home. If you own rental properties, FTTH can also increase the amount tenants are willing to pay in rent.
Is this the first time KMTelecom has provided fiber to homes?
No, KMTelecom first began installing fiber to homes in 2014 in the communities of Kasson and Mantorville and has continued to expand our FTTH footprint since then.
PRE-REGISTRATION PHASE
Why is there a Pre-Registration Phase?
The Pre-Registration Phase gives non-customers of KMTelecom the opportunity to show your interest in having KMTelecom bring fiber to your home or business. If you choose not to pre-register and decide you want fiber brought to your home or business at a later date, you will be charged for construction costs. By pre-registering now, you take advantage of a free FTTH connection (construction valued at more than $1,000).
Is there a deadline to pre-register?
KMTelecom needs your commitment so we can plan our construction project. If you do not pre-register, we will pass your home without doing FTTH construction.
Are Dodge Center residents required to pre-register?
City of Dodge Center residents do not need to pre-register. The city has received a grant to build out fiber to homes that were designated for the project. Construction is set to begin the spring of 2023.
CONSTRUCTION IN NEW FIBERHOODS
Will this affect any of my present services?
The initial outdoor construction will not change your current services at all. We’re simply digging in underground fiber. Phase 2 of the installation will be connecting the internal services. At which time you will be able to upgrade your existing services and add new services if you would like.
What equipment will be installed at my home or business?
We’ll initially install a Network Interface Device (NID) on the outside of your home or business. An Optical Network Terminal (ONT) will be installed on the inside of your home or business when service is set up. The ONT contains electronics that terminate the fiber-optic cable and convert the signals of light back into usable internet signals. KMTelecom will own and maintain this equipment.
Will I be charged for construction of fiber to my home or business?
While crews are in your neighborhood during the construction phase, KMTelecom will cover the cost of construction up to your premises if you have pre-registered and will install an Optical Network Termination (ONT) at no charge.
However, if you do not pre-register and decide later that you want fiber (after the crews have left your area), there may be a construction charge. This is why it’s important to act now.
Will the process of burying fiber disturb my yard?
The equipment used during this process knifes through your turf and lays it back down after the fiber is installed. We’ll make every effort to minimize disruption to your yard and landscape.
Why is fiber buried underground instead of placed on telephone lines?
Buried fiber is better protected from elements such as wind, fire and snow/ice, which provides a much more reliable network for customers.
Will you need to drill a hole in my home?
The Network Interface Device (NID) is simply attached to the outside of your home. When we bring the fiber inside your home, a small hole will be drilled to allow the fiber cabling to enter.
Will you need to enter my home to make any changes?
Yes, when construction crews have completed the outdoor work, they’ll need to enter your home to complete the FTTH construction. You’ll be notified to schedule an appointment when it’s time for that work to be done.
Will fiber construction affect any of my current communications services?
The initial outdoor construction will not change your current services at all, whether you’re a customer of KMTelecom or another communications provider. During Phase 1, we’re simply digging to install underground fiber. Phase 2 of the installation process will be connecting your home or business to our fiber network. At this time, you’ll be able to upgrade your current KMTelecom services or sign up for new ones.
Do I have to pay to have the fiber and NID installed?
No, KMTelecom will own and maintain the fiber to your home or business and the Network Interface Device (NID) on the outside of your home or business. An Optical Network Termination (ONT) box will be installed on the inside of your home or business when service is set up.
Who do I call if I have additional questions?
Please call the KMTelecom office at 507-634-2511, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. Our customer service representatives will be happy to help you.
Do you have more questions?
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