Data and Telecommunications Cabler

The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to comply with the profile and skills requirements of a Data and Telecommunications Cabler. A Data and Telecommunications Cabler installs, tests, terminates, commissions, troubleshoots, maintains and repairs internal telecommunications and data cabling on equipment and peripherals for computer networks, telephony, cable television as well as television monitored security systems and fire alarms. A qualified learner will be able to: • Install and commission telecommunications cables to equipment and devices. • Terminate cables, cords and accessories to connect to telecommunication network and devices. • Diagnose, locate and troubleshoot telecommunication cabling faults on telecommunications equipment and cables. • Complete telecommunication cables installation documentation.

Who should enrol? Entry-level workers, school leavers, or career changers who want to gain foundational skills. The Data and Telecommunications Cabler welcomes learners from diverse backgrounds, including those with limited formal education but relevant practical experience. The flexible learning approach ensures that everyone can progress at their own pace while achieving the same high standard of competence.

As per Government Gazette 35625, published on 31 August 2012, the Minister of Higher Education and Training issued a listing of occupations as trades for which artisan qualifications are required, the Data and Telecommunications Cabler was identified as a trade occupation in terms of Section 26B of the Skills Development Act 1998 (Act No. 97 of 1998). This qualification has been developed with the view to meet the expressed need by the data and telecommunications industry for skilled labour as most telecommunications providers are now moving towards optic solutions to deliver faster broadband speeds to premises as a preferred method of service to providers seeking pure fibre or copper network solutions. Data and telecommunications cablers are predominantly involved in the installation, troubleshooting and maintenance of data and telecommunications cables, which may be located internally within domestic, commercial and industrial areas or sometimes in underground pipes, trenches or overhead systems. They usually work with either copper or fibre optic cables and specialise in a particular procedure to install, troubleshoot and maintain such cables. Qualified individuals may be required to do new installations and upgrades or to maintain existing networks in domestic, commercial and industrial installations. Learners will be equipped with knowledge and skills to install and maintain customer cable infrastructure relating to communication applications. This may include digital and analog applications, telephony, data and video applications, digital broadcasting, computer networks, local area networks (LAN), wide area networks (WAN) and multimedia. The installation also involves selecting a cable route, setting up cable dispensers and placing and securing cables. The qualification is intended for individuals who wish to enter the industry as well as those already working in the industry and grant them an opportunity to acquire a nationally recognised qualification through recognition of prior learning. Qualified individuals will gain employment opportunities in government, state-owned enterprises and private companies. A skilled workforce will invariably benefit the economy and society at large and ensure job security for the individual. The qualification was developed with the active participation of the major stakeholders and employers in the industry such as Transnet, Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (Prasa), Telkom and Broadband Infraco. The qualification will provide learners with opportunities to progress horizontally and vertically to related occupations such as Telecommunications Cable Jointer at NQF Level 3 and Telecommunications Line Mechanic at NQF Level 4 respectively. It will also facilitate the standardisation of non-aligned training courses currently provided by authorities/companies to create skilled and competent Data and Telecommunication Cablers in the country.

1.Use acquired knowledge to install, join, terminate, and commission internal telecommunications cables. 2.Diagnose, locate, and repair faults on data and telecommunication cables. 3.Complete administration on installation and jointing documentation.