Learn Why Fiber Optic Cables Are an Integral Part of High Speed Networks Body

Fiber optic cables have become a common choice for building high-speed networks over copper cables due to the thigh reliability assured by them. In addition, these cables ensure flexibility and scalability, which are requirements for fast-growing companies. Until a decade ago, copper cables were a common choice for building data networks, but their lack of security, rigid structure, and failure to meet the demands of power-hungry devices have contributed to several operational challenges. This is where fiber optic cables stand out. This post offers insights into the benefits provided by fiber optic cables and why they have become a common choice in high-speed data networks.  

An Overview of Fiber Optic Technology

Copper cables have been used for data and power transmission for several years. However, these cables are limited by their transmission limit, which is up to 100 meters. Against this, the fiber optic cables can send signals as long as 70-80 km without using any signal boosters. In addition, these cables feature optical fibers, which are as thin as a strand of human hair. These strands are bundled together to form cables, which can transmit data in the form of optical pulses over long distances. Fiber optic cables were initially being used in endoscopes during the 1950s. However, by the 1960’s they found their way into telephone cables. These cables could transfer telephone calls at the speed of light. In a vacuum, the light can travel 186,000 miles in a second. However, it is reduced to two-thirds of its speed in a cable, which is still faster than copper cables. This is one of the prime reasons why fiber optic cables are preferred for communication, transmission, and other applications. 

5 Reasons Why Fiber Optic Cables Are Chosen for High Speed Data Networks

Fiber optic cables are integral to various high-speed LANs, WANs, and more. The following features of these cables make them the right choice for these networks. 

• Security: Fiber optic cables do not emit electrical signals like copper cables, which makes them secure in a way. In fact, they transmit data through optical pulses, which are usually contained within the fiber and can be altered only by cutting the ends of wires. When this happens, the entire network will come down, and people will be aware of the tampering. 
• Supports High Bandwidth: Fiber optic cables can support high bandwidths and can meet the needs of fast growing networks. Low latency is another crucial benefit of fiber optic cable. This enables more immediate download and upload times, thereby making it a choice for many businesses where fast data transmission is required. Adding to this, the fiber optic cable has low data loss, which makes it the right choice for long-distance data transmission without significant interruptions and delays. 
• Can Withstand Temperature and Moisture: Fiber optic cables feature no metal, unlike copper cables. This property makes them much non-conductive and more substantial than copper cables and improves their ability to withstand harsh environments. This ability also reduces its vulnerability to electromagnetic interference. 
• Helps Avoid EMI: Fiber optic cables are part of fast growing networks where hundreds of cables may be present. If copper cables are used, then they may induce crosstalk. This causes data-transmission interruption and performance issues. However, fiber optic cables do not produce crosstalk or induce EMI. 
• High Speed than Copper Cables: In fiber optic cables, the speed of light is greater than the speed of electrons. This makes these fiber optic cables transmit data at a much higher speed. Hence, fiber optic cables offer higher speeds than copper cables.

Types of Fiber Optic Cables

Different types of fiber optic cables are available to suit various industrial and commercial applications. Some of their famous types are as follows:

• Single Mode Fiber Optic Cable: This cable contains a small core with a single light pathway. Single-mode fiber optic cables are generally used for long-distance network transmission like TV cables.
• Multimode Fiber Optic Cables: Multimode fiber optic cables feature a large core diameter, supporting the propagation of multiple light modes within the cable. These types of fiber optic cables are used to transmit high volumes of data over short distances. Their typical distance limit is 100 Mbit/seconds for up to 2 Km. 
• Simplex Fiber Optic Cables: These cables contain a single plastic or glass fiber strand. Simplex fiber optic cables are used for single transmissions where single data multiplex is used.
• Duplex Fiber Optic Cables: Duplex fiber optic cables are made with two-strand fibers and are used for duplex communication.
• Multi-strand Fiber Optic Cables: These cables are made up of multiple strands that carry data in a similar direction. These cables use an MPO connector for better performance and to support data rates of about 25G.
• Active Fiber Optic Cables: These cables are used in short link distances like top-of-rack applications. Active fiber optic cables do not require connectors.

Most of these above-discussed cable variants are used as a part of point-to-point (P2P) connections to ensure high-speed network connectivity. Having said that, does it mean the traditional copper cable networks need to be replaced entirely with fiber optic cables? No, you can use fiber optic media converters to extend the value of existing copper networks. In addition, you can create hybrid networks by connecting copper cables with fiber optic cables for the best results. If you plan to build a high-speed data network, ensure to source fiber optic cables and fiber optic media converters from trusted manufacturers. They can guide you with the right selection based on your requirements.