Fiber optics are weather-resistant by design, making them the best choice for your cabling.
Fiber optics are weather-resistant by design, making them the best choice for your cabling. However, no technology is perfect. In this blog, we will cover how fiber optic cables work and why in certain situations they may fail. Weather changes every season, and as locals of the Mid-Atlantic region, FiberPlus understands our unique position.
How Fiber Optics Work
Fiber optic cables are made of coated glass fibers. Along the outside of the cable is rubber to protect the glass from damage. Fiber optic cables work by sending light signals along the glass fiber core. As technology has improved, fiber optic cables have become more durable. Fiber optic cables are superior to copper wiring because they work faster and are much more durable. Because fiber optic cables use glass to send light, the cable cannot bend more than the recommended amount. The light will not travel the rest of the cable if it does, and the glass fibers could be damaged.
The Rare Situation That Cold Weather Affects Your Fiber Optic Cables
Fiber optic cables are the most durable source for your internet. They will survive the most detrimental weather conditions. The only situation where problems arise is if water infiltrates the fiber optic cable. Once water is in the cable and the temperatures drop below freezing, the water will expand as it turns into ice and break the fiber cables. If this happens, your fiber optic cable will need to be replaced.
Cold Weather Will Ruin Your Copper Cabling Quickly
Copper cabling is fragile by nature. Copper is not a strong metal and can be easily damaged. In cold weather, it is likely for copper cabling to freeze and become completely unusable, causing you to replace the entire cable. Fiber optic cables will outlive harsh weather conditions without breaking. They will also maintain their internet speeds during inclement weather.
Get in Touch with FiberPlus
FiberPlus has been providing data communication solutions for over 25 years in the Mid Atlantic Region for a number of different markets. What began as a cable installation company for Local Area Networks has grown into a leading provider of innovative technology solutions improving the way our customers communicate and keeping them secure. Our solutions now include:
- Structured Cabling (Fiberoptic, Copper and Coax for inside and outside plant networks)
- Electronic Security Systems (Access Control & CCTV Solutions)
- Wireless Access Point installations
- Public Safety DAS – Emergency Call Stations
- Audio/Video Services (Intercoms and Display Monitors)
- Support Services
- Specialty Systems
- Design/Build Services
- UL2050 Certifications and installations for Secure Spaces
FiberPlus promises the communities in which we serve that we will continue to expand and evolve as new technology is introduced within the telecommunications industry.