By Stephen Gariepy

Best Practices in Multi-Dwelling Properties

Fiber-to-the-premise (FTTP) deployment in brownfield multi-dwelling units (MDUs) can be a risky venture for broadband service providers (BSPs). On one hand, it’s hard to pass up new subscriber opportunities when your fiber assets pass by dense concentrations of potential customers. On the other hand, brownfield MDUs are like snowflakes—no two are exactly alike, and the challenges of FTTP deployment and ongoing network operations may skew the risks greater than the rewards in any given property.

And now, just as your best practices for FTTP in MDUs have developed and matured, the market is rapidly trending towards a new variant called “Smart MDUs.” As a result, smart BSPs are asking, “What are Smart MDUs, and how do they impact my FTTP best practices?”

What makes an MDU “Smart” and what’s driving market growth?

Smart MDUs integrate IoT devices, building automation systems (BAS), and smart applications over an advanced network infrastructure, providing attractive capabilities and benefits for both property managers/owners and residents alike.

The rapid growth of Smart MDUs is driven by residents’ demands for smart home conveniences, high-performance broadband connectivity, Internet access, Wi-Fi, and entertainment/streaming services. Property managers/owners are adopting Smart MDU technologies to attract and retain tenants, differentiate their properties, and maximize revenues. Additionally, property managers are leveraging the advanced network infrastructure of Smart MDUs to create additional revenue streams from managed services like community Wi-Fi, and to support comprehensive building automation systems that increase operating efficiencies while reducing operating costs.

What’s different? FTTP considerations for Smart MDUs.

Fortunately, Smart MDUs are an evolutionary step in the world of MDU properties, and the challenges and best practices for FTTP in MDUs remain valid in Smart MDUs as well.

Of course, there are additional requirements that should be considered. Here are a few of the more important differences, including:

• Integration of IoT systems: Building automation, smart security, and energy management systems may require VLANs to ensure performance and security
• IoT device powering: Hybrid fiber/copper cables to connect and power IoT devices such as cameras, access points, and smart locks
• Wireless infrastructure: Cabling to support managed Wi-Fi coverage throughout the property
• Scalability: Smart MDUs require highly scalable fiber networks that can handle increasing IoT devices over time
• Security: Advanced cyber security measures must be incorporated to protect the network

Smart BSPs are adding a Smart MDUs chapter to their FTTP play book

Smart MDUs require the fiber capacity to provide high-speed Internet and large data volumes generated by IoT devices, streaming, and smart applications, deployed over a flexible fiber network topology to support higher throughput, low latency, and scalability for connected devices. Additional structured cabling for IoT systems like building automation, smart security, and energy management is required and may require discrete network segments to provide performance and security. IoT devices and applications found in Smart MDUs may require Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) support to power lighting, cameras, access points, and smart locks. Certainly one of the most important network considerations in Smart MDUs is wireless connectivity throughout the building and property for community Wi-Fi services.

Look for manufacturers with FTTP solutions designed specifically to address the space constraints, building access, increased costs, and the complexity of integrating smart technologies with traditional broadband services in MDU properties.

Stephen Gariepy,

MSO Market Manager

Stephen is a seasoned telecommunication professional with over 15 years of experience across OSP, IPTV, wireless, and ISP sectors. With a proven track record of facilitating the growth of regional ISPs and aiding national cable operators in the adoption of new technologies, he possesses invaluable insights into the telecom landscape. Stephen’s coast-to-coast work has honed his expertise in understanding regional variations and shifting priorities for customers.