Fiber optic cables make long-distance computing, telecommunication, and data networking possible. They are constructed with several strands of glass fibers, which are encased with an insulated covering. Currently, much of the world’s internet, cable, and television systems use fiber optic cables for support. When compared to wired cables, fiber optics provide greater performance and higher bandwidth over longer distances.
How They Work
Fiber optic cables use small LED lights to create pulses of light that carry communication signals. The outer layer, also known as the cladding, reflects light inward toward the core, which provides the pathway for the light to travel. This system helps reduce loss of signal and allows the light to continue to move, even through bends in the cables. An interesting fact about the glass fibers is that they are each only slightly thicker than a strand of human hair.
Types of Cables
There are two types of fiber optic cables; single mode and multi-mode. Single-mode fiber optic cables are incredibly thin strands that use a laser to generate light. A technique known as Wave Division Multiplexing increases the amount of data traffic that can be sent across the strand and allows light at multiple wavelengths to be combined and then separated. The multi-mode type uses light-emitting diodes, or LEDs to generate light. A direct fiber system goes from the central office and directly to one customer. A shared fiber system goes from the central office and is split between nearby customers.
Advantages and Benefits
As previously mentioned, one of the main advantages of fiber optic cables is that they have a higher bandwidth capacity when compared to wired/copper cables. Fiber cables are typically rated at 10 gigabits per second, 40 Gbps, and up to 100 Gbps. Because the fiber optic cables are so efficient over long distances, they reduce the need for signal boosters. They’re also much less susceptible to interference as the physical properties of glass and fiber protect it from electromagnetic conflict.
Delta Intellicom for Your Business Phone Needs
Ready for your VoIP project? Delta Intellicom can satisfy all of your telecommunication needs, whether you need help with your new VoIP system or just want to streamline your existing office phone network. We have served the Maryland, Washington, D.C, Northern Virginia, and Pennsylvania areas for over 20 years and offer an unparalleled customer experience. We have the expertise and products to fulfill all of your phone service and data needs. For more information, contact us online or give us a call at 1-800-946-3358. For more tips, follow us on Google+, Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.