20639 - SCTE Broadband May2020 COMPLETE v1

58 Vol. 42 No. 2 - May 2020 Issue A smart city depends on a network providing flawless and rapid connectivity. Comsof Fiber explains the importance of the planning stage in this network roll- out process. By Comsof Fiber A Smart Fibre Network for Smart Cities Introduction Smart city networks are essential for any city aspiring to be an innovation and tech frontrunner. A smart city is about sensors and devices exchanging information on traffic, waste, infrastructure and public lighting. It is a boost for the economy, environment and safety. Above all, it is about connecting people, making their lives easier and richer. To accomplish all this, a smart city depends upon flawless and rapid connectivity. It is a complex venture to conceive and plan a network providing this ‘omniconnectivity’. It can be costly if deployment is not well analysed. In this article, we explain the importance of the planning stage in this network roll-out process. What makes a smart city ‘smart’? Simply put, a smart city uses electronic sensors to collect a massive amount of data. The network of all these connected sensors and devices is called the Internet of Things, or IoT. Based on insights obtained from this data, the city or community should be able to manage itself more efficiently, across the board. Possible information includes traffic and transportation data; power infrastructure; utilities such as water and electricity networks; waste management; crime detection; schools; libraries; hospitals and other public services and buildings. A smart city allows authorities to enhance the city’s quality, performance and efficiency. A huge added value is that it allows for real-time response. In view of the recent COVID-19 outbreak, spotting possible irregularities or unallowed citizen interaction could make all the difference. Some cities are frontrunners in the shift towards a data-driven area i.e. centres such as Dubai, Singapore, Barcelona and New York. However, a lot still needs to be done for the rest of the word to catch up. And it all starts with a flawless connection. from the industry

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