Fiber optic cables offer speed, reliability, and bandwidth that copper wires do not.
Fiber optic cables are relatively new technology, which means many people may not be aware of the benefits these cables can offer. Although fiber optic cables are newer than broadband Internet or copper cables, they are swiftly becoming the go-to investment for businesses that require reliable high-speed Internet. Read on to discover exactly what fiber optic cables can offer you that copper wires cannot.
High Speed
Fiber optic cables transmit data much faster than copper wires do because fiber optics use the speed of light rather than the speed of electrons. Fiber optic Internet connections can range from 5 Mbps to 100 Gbps. This ensures no wasted time or productivity due to a slow Internet connection. Fiber optic cables also enable “symmetric speed,” which means that uploading and downloading speeds are equal.
Large Bandwidth
Compared to copper wires, fiber optic cables have a much larger bandwidth, about 60 Tbps compared to the 10 Gbps. Additionally, Internet speed does not decrease even as high demands are put on the network. Uninterrupted speed is excellent for businesses who rely on the following tasks which put a heavy demand on bandwidth:
- Web Conferencing
- Streaming HD video
- File sharing
- Cloud applications
High Signal Strength and Low Attenuation
Typically, with broadband Internet or Copper, the Internet signal degrades as the user moves away from the central switch. Fiber optic cables have low attenuation or reduction in the signal strength. Repeaters then only need to be added every 50 km or so on Singlemode Fiber, compared to every 5 km for copper wires. This is an essential factor in maintaining Internet speed, reliability, and access for any large space.
Minimally Affected By External Factors
Fiber optic cables are not affected by potential electromagnetic interferences that can come from proximity to heavy machinery like copper wires are. Fiber cables are also not vulnerable to changes that come from power failures or fluctuations caused by inclement weather. The stronger fiber optics are also resistant to human or electrical interferences unless the fibers are physically cut.
High Security
Because fiber optic cables cannot be tapped easily, this makes them the ideal option for high Internet security. The only way to penetrate a fiber-optic Internet connection is to cut the wires, which will make the signal disappear.
Lightweight
Fiber cables are much thinner and lighter than copper wires. A fiber cable can weigh about four pounds per 1000 feet, compared to copper wires, which can weigh 39 pounds per 1000 ft. The lightweight fiber optics then require less space for functionality.
Longer Life Cycle
The average life cycle of fiber cables is 30-50 years, which is much higher than copper wires.
Part of their long life cycle comes from the fact that, because fiber optic cables are made of glass, they are much less prone to corrosion.
“Disadvantages” Of Fiber Optics
Because fiber optic cabling is newer than copper wire technology, installation and maintenance are not quite as easy or accessible. Fiber optic cables are unidirectional, so two cables are needed for two-way communication in most cases. Because of their newness, fiber optic cables are also more expensive than copper wires.
However, despite these apparent “disadvantages” to fiber optics, the benefits they provide you and your business end up saving you time and money in the long run. With fiber optic cables, you avoid copper wire replacements, security breaches, and lost productivity because of slow connections, among many other annoyances.
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
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.
Have any questions? Interested in one of our services? Call FiberPlus today 800-394-3301, email us at info@fiberplusinc.com, or visit our contact page. Our offices are located in the Washington, DC metro area, Richmond, VA, and Columbus, OH. In Pennsylvania, please call Pennsylvania Networks, Inc. at 814-259-3999.
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