Fiber Optic Cable

Fiber optic cable has some distinct advantages over its copper substitutes. These advantages include a greater information carrying capacity, less loss of information, smaller size and weight, electrical isolation, and environmental ruggedness.

The biggest of all of these advantages is the increased information carrying capacity. Fiber optics use light pulses to transmit information, whereas copper uses electrical pulses. The bandwidth is usually only limited by the transmitters and receivers because the bandwidth of fiber optic cables is hundreds of times higher than traditional electrical systems.

The low loss of information is another important benefit of fiber optic cable. Signals on the conventional systems usually require signals to be amplified approximately every mile, whereas optical cables only require amplification every hundred miles or so.

Another attractive trait of fiber optics is the electrical isolation. Optical fibers are immune to electrical disturbances, such as lightning and electromagnetic interference or EMI. Most of the noise in electrical systems are a result of EMI, and signals are not interfered with unless the fiber itself is disturbed.

The smaller size and weight of fiber optic cables can also be a big benefit where space is a concern. Fibers can also be protected by sheathing and armor to make it resistant to harsh environmental conditions. Optical cable also do not spark, so there is no risk of fire, and cables can be run through or near flammable liquids.

Fiber optic cables are slightly more expensive, but its reliability and lifespan prove it to actually cut costs in the long run. It is just as easy to install, and there is plenty of room for innovation and cost reductions.