Whether you have an upcoming network cable installation project or upgrade the existing network, it would be best to use fiber optic cable during your next installation. Fiber optic cables have become popular due to the several benefits they offer. Keep on reading to discover the top benefits of fiber optic cables.
What is a Fiber Optic Cable?
Also known as optical fiber cable, fiber optic cable contains an optical cable used to transport light. Each fiber optic strand is coated with plastic layers in a tube to protect the environment’s cables. Different types of optical fibers are used for various applications. Fiber optical cables are usually used in the telecommunication industry. These fibers are also used to provide a fast and reliable connection between buildings.
The Benefits of Optical Fiber Cable
Optical fiber cables have so much to offer. Let us look at the top benefits of optical fiber cables in this guide:
- More Bandwidth
Although copper cables were initially designed to transmit voice signals, they have limited bandwidth. On the other hand, fiber optic cables provide greater bandwidth than copper cables. This means that fiber optic cables provide quicker transmissions than copper cables.
- Greater Speeds
Fiber optical cables are also quicker than other transmission mediums. Optical fiber cables can transmit data quicker than copper cables because they transmit data using a core that transmits light. These transparent cables carry data at high speeds that only differ from the speed of light by 31%. Above all, fiber optical cables have little or no signal degradation.
- Optical Fibers can Transmit Data Over Long Distances.
Another top benefit of fiber optic fibers is that they can transmit data much further than copper cables. Some optical fiber cables can transmit signals as far as 25 miles. The actual distance is determined by various factors, including the network and wavelength.
- More Reliability
Harsh weather conditions like temperature changes, humidity, and severe weather can slow down data transmission. The good news is that you can overcome these harsh conditions and enjoy unmatched speeds when you use fiber optical cables. Apart from that, fiber optic cables can withstand electromagnetic interference or EMI. Electromagnetic interference can hamper data transmission. The good thing with these transparent cables is that they do not pose a fire threat like copper cables and other transmission mediums.
- Thinner and Lightweight
Fiber optic cables should also be your go-to options since they are thinner and lightweight. This means that optical fiber cables are more resistant to pull pressure than copper cables. The cable is also more resistant to breakage and damage than copper.
- Relatively Cheap
Although the initial cost of buying fiber optical cables might discourage you, the reality is that fiber optic cables are less expensive than copper cables and other transmission mediums. Think of it this way, you will be saving your money over the long run since you will not need to replace the cables soon. Moreover, optical fiber cables are resistant to damage, breakage, and electromagnetic interference than copper cables. Besides, the total cost of ownership will continue reducing as the cost of fiber optic cables and the required components continues to decrease.
- Optical Fiber Cables are Flexible
Finally, optical fiber cables will meet all your future needs. All you need to do to incorporate these cables with your existing UTP Ethernet connection is to take advantage of modular converters. Using modular converters will allow you to incorporate high speeds to meet your current needs while preparing for the future.
Concerns Around Fiber Optic Cables
Like all other transmission mediums, fiber optic cables also have some drawbacks. This does not mean that this mode of transmission is not the best. Here are some of the cons of fiber optic transmissions:
- Since fiber optic cables are made from glass, they can be fragile, especially when placed on water. The good news is that the optic fiber cables have a protective covering that protects the cables.
- The initial cost of installing optical fiber cables is higher than typical cables. However, you will be saving much more since optical fiber cables are durable and easy to maintain.
Using fiber optic transmission is the best thing to do in this day and age. You are guaranteed fast speeds and more reliability. Do you need quality fiber optic cables? Contact JPT laser for all your needs today!