What Telecommunication Equipment Should I Buy First?
- Nate Jones, CPCU, ARM, CLCS, AU
- Oct 27, 2025
- 2 min read
Starting a telecommunication services business — whether you're installing fiber optic networks, trenching for cable placement, or offering directional drilling — requires the right equipment from day one. Choosing wisely can help you avoid overspending, improve efficiency, and position your business for long-term success.
At Wexford Insurance, we specialize in helping telecom contractors protect their operations with tailored insurance solutions. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential equipment you should invest in first, and how insurance plays a key role in protecting those assets.
Essential Telecommunication Equipment
1. Fusion Splicer
A fusion splicer is critical for joining fiber optic cables with minimal signal loss. It uses an electric arc to fuse the ends of fibers, ensuring strong, low-loss connections.
Recommended: Fujikura 90R Fusion Splice
Ideal for: Fiber optic installation, campus networks, and metro deployments
2. Optical Time Domain Reflectometer (OTDR)
An OTDR is used to test the integrity of fiber optic cables by detecting faults, splices, and bends. It’s essential for certifying new installations and troubleshooting existing networks.
Explore options at Fiber Instrument Sales
3. Directional Drilling Machine
If your business involves underground cable placement, a directional drill is a must. It allows trenchless installation of conduits beneath roads, buildings, and landscapes.
Recommended: Ditch Witch JT20 or JT32
Learn more about trenching vs. drilling here
4. Fiber Optic Cleaver & Prep Kit
A fiber cleaver ensures clean cuts before splicing, which is vital for signal quality. Many starter kits include cleavers, visual fault locators, and cleaning tools.
Recommended: Jonard TK-151 Fiber Prep Kit
5. Telecom Starter Tool Kit
For general telecom installations, a starter kit includes punch down tools, cable strippers, test sets, and modular adapters.
Recommended: Fluke Networks Telecom Kit
6. Power Meter & Light Source
Used together, these tools measure signal strength and insertion loss in fiber optic networks. They’re essential for quality control and performance verification.
Available at: AFL Global
Don’t Forget Insurance
Your equipment is a major investment — and it needs protection. At Wexford Insurance, we help telecom contractors secure:
Final Thoughts
Starting a telecommunication business is exciting, but choosing the right equipment is critical. Focus on tools that match your service offerings, and protect your investment with specialized telecom contractor insurance.
Need help getting started or insuring your equipment?
Contact Wexford Insurance today — we’re here to support fiber optic installers and directional drilling professionals.
