Fiber Optics

DSU, LLC

Advantages of Fiber Optics

Bandwidth

In a real world LAN comparison with cable lengths of 90 meters (295 feet), Category 5e muiltipair UTP backbone cables had a maximum bandwidth of 100 MHz while multi-mode fiber optic cables had a maximum bandwidth of 4700 MHz. That roughly equates to difference between 3,000 and 31,000 standard telephone calls.

Fiber Optic systems can operate at data rates of 100Gb/s, the equivalent of more than 120,000 standard telephone calls.

Under optimal conditions speeds of 10 terabits have been recorded.

Increased Distances

Due to the low attenuation (or signal loss) exhibited by optical fibers, signals can be transmitted very long distances.

Unlike copper cables, the attenuation of fiber optics is not affected by an increase or decrease in bandwidth. Over a 100 meter (328 foot) distance, Category 5e cable can be expected to lose over 99% of its strength compared to just 3% for fiber optics.

In addition, Category 5e cable is susceptible to interference from external electrical sources and must be routed accordingly. Fiber Optic cables are immune to EMI (electromagnetic interference).

Cost

The initial cost of fiber is higher than copper however, the expense of fiber optics is relative to the system being run. Any application where there is a lot of data to move over long distances may see a cost benefit from fiber due to the efficiency of the system.

Security

For systems where network security is concerned, fiber optics is the best choice. Eavesdropping on a Category 5e LAN can be easily done with a tap or antenna without being detected. An antenna is not effective on fiber optics and a tap is easily detected as it will cause noticeable attenuation and back reflections. Additionally, the location of the tap can be easily found with an OTDR (Optical-Time Domain Reflectometer).

Future-Proof
A fiber optic system installed today will likely only be using a small fraction of its capacity. As demands on the system increase, it can be updated with the latest technology keeping the backbone in place.

Safety
A fiber optic communications cable does not need to carry any electrical current eliminating the shock, spark, and fire hazards associated with copper. It is possible to construct completely non-metallic cables so that full electrical isolation can be achieved.
There are no risks of short circuits generating sparks which may ignite explosive gases etc. Additionally, non-metallic cables are not prone to lightning strikes in exposed areas.

Other Factors
Compared to copper, there is little use of resource in manufacturing, transporting and installing fiber optic cables because of the lightweight, compact nature of optical fibers. Additionally, fiber has no scrap value and should be considered for high-risk areas.