Everything you need to know about fiber optics

In recent years, the subject of fiber optics has become increasingly popular and widely discussed, mainly due to investments by telecommunications companies in expanding internet coverage using this material, as it is more technological and efficient for connections. Although it is better known than a few years ago, many doubts remain about the installation and use of fiber optics, which will be explained in the content below.

What is fiber optics?

Fiber optics is made of a flexible, transparent material that is almost as thin as a human hair. It can be made of glass or plastic and is capable of insulating electricity. Its main function is to transmit digital data converted into light signals over thousands of kilometers, if necessary.

The material has become a reference in technology precisely because of its ability to transmit information even over long distances and, especially, because of the speed with which it performs this function.

Considered one of the network cables with the highest digital transmission capacity, fiber optics has become responsible for enabling higher connection speeds for end consumers.

How does fiber optics work?

Physically, fiber optics consists of a glass core, which is responsible for conducting light from one end to the other, performing the data transfer. The fiber also features what is called a cladding, which is a material with a lower refractive index. It is the difference between the refractive indices of the cladding and the core that enables total reflection and the subsequent maintenance of the light beam inside the fiber.

A layer of resistant polymer, called Kevlar, is used to ensure the flexibility and handling of the fiber, which otherwise would break at the touch. Finally, a PVC jacket acts as external protection and coats all the other layers.

A connection using fiber optics is capable of diffusing a greater quantity of signals compared to other technologies, with less chance of instability and higher quality. Furthermore, it does not need to use electricity when transmitting signals, as it converts them into light for transmission via cable.

The world before fiber optics

Before fiber optics, connections were much slower. Having broadband internet meant paying a very high price for a connection that today would be insufficient. Due to fiber, today we reach connection speeds that were impossible just a few years ago.

In Brazil, broadband took time to become popular, as did fiber optic internet. This is because new technologies are expensive when they are launched. Currently, it is no longer so difficult to hire a plan that uses fiber for connection, and telephone companies seek increasingly greater coverage to reach various regions of the country.

Types of fiber optics

Although it is not a subject discussed as often, fiber optics has two main types of operation. The connection process can be done by laser (also called single-mode fiber) or by LED (known as multi-mode fiber). At a simple glance, it is not possible to tell them apart, but they carry some differences between them.

Single-mode

Laser fiber optics has only one light source and, therefore, is capable of working with one signal at a time. Its advantage is data transmission over great distances without compromising quality.

Single-mode fiber has a higher cost and can be used in indoor and outdoor environments, but it also requires a higher degree of technical knowledge for handling.

Multi-mode

Multi-mode fiber, on the other hand, can exchange signals simultaneously, in addition to having a lower cost. It is recommended for use in local networks, as it does not have as much autonomy over long distances, working well over about 300 meters.

Advantages of fiber optics

Using fiber optic technology is highly recommended if a home or business needs high speed and a cleaner signal. In addition to these advantages, it is possible to highlight a few more that add even more value to fiber.

Savings
Commonly associated with higher costs, fiber optics actually ensures greater savings in the long run, as its cables wear out less than conventional installation cables.

Security
Using fiber optics is safer because it is a material that does not require electrical transmissions, which offers no risk of short circuits and fires.

Speed gain
Fiber optics is known for its ability to transmit data with extreme efficiency and for reaching connection speeds that were impossible just a few years ago. In addition, the sending of data has a high degree of quality and efficiency.

Interference reduction
Fiber optics does not suffer from electromagnetic and radio frequency interference, ensuring a cleaner and clearer signal. Such an attribute cannot be found in older connections.

Increased transmission capacity
As already mentioned, fiber optics is very thin, which becomes an advantage when grouping more wires and placing them in a single cable.

Loss reduction
Despite being able to cover high distances, fiber optics has very little data and signal loss, which counts as another point of advantage for the material, as this also makes it the best option in terms of long-term economy.

Easy installation
Due to its low weight, thickness, and good flexibility, fiber optics is considered an easy-to-install material by the professionals who work with it. In addition, it is easy to transport and handle.

Chemically stable
Fiber optics also presents great resistance to chemical agents and temperature changes, which provides greater safety in various situations

Learn more about fiber optics with DCA.

In this article, we presented several characteristics and advantages in the use of fiber optics for companies and other installations; furthermore, we have a qualified team ready to clarify any eventual doubts. Get in touch with DCA and schedule a conversation with our professionals.

As a Master distributor of Furukawa fiber optic solutions, we guarantee quality and excellence for our clients’ projects. Furukawa is a leader in structured cabling and optical network infrastructure in Brazil and invests heavily in research. Thus, it establishes itself as a center of excellence, capable of offering complete solutions adapted to the most diverse needs in its field of expertise: telecommunications network infrastructure.