How Fiber Optics Technology Has Transformed Telecommunications
Fiber optics technology has transformed many fields, including surgery, remote sensing systems, military and space applications, and telecommunications. Prior to this option, connectivity between distant individuals, computers, and other network components was achieved using copper cables.
However, while copper is an excellent conductor and perfectly adequate for carrying voice signals, its bandwidth is limited. This limitation reduces the maximum length at which it will continue functioning effectively to around 100 metres. The arrival of fiber optics has enabled signals to travel more than 100 times further than a copper cable while also increasing bandwidth capabilities by more than 1000 times. Fiber’s lower latency also means less delay between requests and responses.
As well as its increased signal speed and bandwidth, this novel connectivity solution has some other notable advantages over its copper counterpart. Fiber cables are much lighter, if a little less durable. Furthermore, although the initial installation cost is higher, these lightweight cables cost little to maintain. Therefore, a fiber optic installation is likely to prove cheaper than copper cabling in the long run.
However, perhaps one of this technology’s most significant benefits is its resistance to electromagnetic interference. By contrast, electrical signals in copper wires generate an interference field around them that can cause crosstalk with other nearby copper cables, leading to lost signals and security risks.
The Nature of Fiber Optics and How it Works
We’ve seen that fiber optic cables offer numerous advantages, but what are they and how do they work?
The Structure of Fiber Optic Cables
As the name suggests, these cables are formed from between one and 144 optical fibers, according to the requirements of a given installation. These fibers are long and thin strands of exceptionally pure glass and are similar in thickness to a human hair. Where an application requires multiple fibers, they are arranged in parallel to form one or more enclosed bundles capable of transmitting pulses of light over long distances.
Cable Function
Networks and telecommunication systems that employ fiber optics can, theoretically, provide capacity for up to 10 gigabits per second at data transfer rates of up to 10 billion bits per second. However, in practice, this will take more time to achieve. Nevertheless, by comparison, the figures for copper cables range from 25 to 300 megabits per second and up to 300 million bits per second. So, what makes this fiber’s superior performance possible?
Rather than using electrical signals, data is encoded in a stream of light. In keeping with the principles of total internal reflection theory, photons repeatedly bounce off the reflective walls of the cable, propelling them along its length to and from connected devices, such as servers, PCs, routers, and monitors. On the domestic scene, fiber optic cables have vastly improved home broadband and subscription TV services.
Some Other Advantages of Fiber Optics
Fiber’s speed and bandwidth overcome copper’s signal limitations, enabling the transmission of visual data required for video conferencing. The latter option proved invaluable in supporting remote workers during the Covid-19 lockdown, reducing costs and risks, and ultimately transforming how many companies do business forever. The following benefits are also worth considering if you wish to optimise your telecommunications and the performance of IT systems in general.
Improved Reliability:
Fiber optic cables are not only impervious to electromagnetic interference but, unlike copper, are also unaffected by temperature, moisture, and severe weather conditions. Furthermore, they eliminate fire risks due to worn insulation that may occur with copper cables.
Flexibility:
Fiber optics are designed to facilitate compatibility with future developments in communications and emerging digital technologies, helping to keep existing networks cost-effective.
Migrating to Fiber Optic Technology
Many leading South African companies choose CCI technologies to ensure a smooth transition and guarantee optimum performance when upgrading to fiber optic technology. We invite you to contact our experts and start enjoying the many benefits of a state-of-the-art telecommunications installation.
