Submitted by: Vikas Dayal
Fiber optic cables have sparked a revolution for the telecommunication industry and are speedily replacing the conventional copper wires. The application of the fiber optic cables is vast and they can be used for backbone networking, horizontal connectivity as well as desktop applications. It is hence, imperative to know the reason for superiority of the fiber optic cables over the conventional ones.
Minimal Signal Loss Over Long Distances
In the telecommunication and other industries where extensive lengths of cables are a pre-requisite, it is essential to ensure least signal loss over large distances. Copper cables are prone to signal degradation and loss over long distances. However, fiber optic cable are more potent at delivering optimal results even over large distances.
A copper cable is capable of transmitting information up to 9,328 ft. whereas fiber optic cables can transmit the same up to 24.8 miles (1,30,944 ft.). The reason for seamless and unhindered transmission of data in the fiber optic cables is because of the data travelling in form of light through the core of the cable. Data travels in form of electric signals in the conventional copper wires.
No Fire Hazards
Electric cables result in fire hazards across the world. In some cases they may be the cause of the fire or in some cases they may be the reason for amplification of the same. The absence of electric current in the fiber optic cables ensures that these cables are not a fire hazard. Losses incurred due to fire accidents can be avoided by using fiber optic cables.
Faster Data Transmission
The transmission of data is manifolds faster in the fiber optic cables. The speed of data transmission in the fiber optic cables is only 31% slower than the speed of light itself. The data travels in the form of light through the fiber optic cables unlike in form of electric currents in the copper wires. Faster data transmission allows speeding up of the entire operations in large organizations and better service rendering for the related industries.
Cost Effective in the Long Run
Fiber optic cables are comparatively expensive than the copper cables if compared for just the installation costs. However, looking at the bigger picture the former are largely cost effective than the latter as they do not incur frequent maintenance costs like the copper cables. The misconception of the cables being brittle for glass being a primary component of fiber, has also been undone by the sturdiness of the products. The fiber optic cables do not need to be replaced as frequently as the copper cables. Hence, if costs in the long run are considered choosing fiber optic cables over copper cables is the ideal decision.
The prices of fiber optic cables and supporting components are also decreasing gradually with inverse relation to the increase in demand for the same.
Fiber Optic Cables are free of Electromagnetic Interference (EMI)
Since fiber optic cables do not conduct electricity they do not generate or get affected by EMI which may be caused due to incorrect installation of copper wires. Copper wires when left hanging loose or coiled up while installation can generate electro-magnetic fields which can cause a lot of disturbance to the functionality of other wires in the vicinity. Such situations can be hazardous for the technical staff to handle.
EMI is also a reason for potential security threat to the data being transferred through the cables. The data can be tapped through electromagnetic interference. Hence, using fiber optic cables not only negates the security threats to the data but also prevents technical hazards that could stall or disrupt work.
About the Author: Vikas Dayal is an expert on fiber optic products. Written many Articles & Blogs on Fiber Optic Cable FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT:-
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