Fiber Optic Networks
Are you looking to use the latest methods when it comes to technology, for the transmission of information? Your company should then consider installing an fiber optic network! Optical fiber is where fiber made of glass or plastic is used through which light is passed, usually in the form of pulses. This beats the conventional way of transmitting information with the help of copper wires, as this method of using optical fiber is faster and is therefore a better option. However, fiber optic networks have not been implemented as yet in many parts of the country. The main reason for this being the cost involved with installation and the amount of labor that is generally required.
The glass fiber is more sensitive than copper wires, which means that more care needs to be taken in installing and maintaining a fiber optic network. An outer cable is generally required for glass fiber unlike in copper wires. All this adds to the cost of optical fiber being relatively high. Most long distance lines in major companies however, have taken advantage of a fiber optic network for the transmission of information. This includes a few telephone companies as well.
Another advantage of optical fiber is that it can carry much larger amounts of information than the usual copper wires, especially over a short distance. In addition to this, optical fiber takes less space and are therefore ideal for fiber optic networks within a small building. Each cable consists of less strands of fiber glass than in an electrical cable. Another addition to technology is the use of Ethernet , which transmits information using optical fibers, over a Local Area Network, commonly known as LAN, the latest being the 10 Gigabit Ethernet.
Fiber optic networks are no longer only used by large companies. It can even be used in your home, instead of using other wireless networks. These optical fibers are generally made of plastic. Now, Ethernet technology can even be used at home! Who wouldnt want a fast connection? Low power light emitting diodes used in fiber optic networks, can easily be seen, thereby making maintenance relatively easy.
Fiber optic networks may soon be used in broadband technology providing greater downloading and uploading speed than the currently used ADSL technology. However it should be remembered that fiber optic networks can be easily hacked. Therefore many organizations may have security concerns when installing optical fiber.