We have been hearing the term fiber
optics since the early 90’s but really the concept has been around since the
late 1800’s when William Wheeler used the basic concept of fiber optics to use one light source to light his
whole home instead of having a light source in each room. Thankfully the
technology has come a long way since then but what is fiber optic technology
like today? Fiber optic technology uses glass or plastic threads to transmit digital
data. One fiber optic cable consists of a bundle of glass or plastic threads
that is capable of transmitting messages that have been sent by using light
waves. This technology has greatly improved data communications worldwide and
it has many advantages over its copper wiring counterpart.
Copper wiring
has been used for years to transmit phone calls across the nation. It works by
sending analog electrical signals. These signals, however, are susceptible to
bad weather, interference, and break down of the signal itself when it is transmitted
over a long distance. It is not bothered by weather or by being close to
another fiber optic cable because there are no electrical signals to interfere
with each other. It is still possible to have some degradation of the signal but
built in signal booster technology enhance and strengthen the signal as it goes
down the cable plus the faster travel speed means it is less likely to break
down the information. Fiber optic cabling is lightning fast, transmitting over
10 gigabits per second per channel. This enables businesses to have reliable
and fast data communications that are less open to outside hacking. Another
benefit for businesses is that fiber optic cabling poses no fire hazard because
it uses light to create the signals instead of electricity. Also, it is less
expensive to purchase than copper wiring and takes up less space in the wall. Yet
another benefit is that fiber optic cabling uses less power so it is less
expensive to run. Of course there are always a few downsides to technological
advancement. Fiber optic cabling is more expensive to install because it is
more fragile than copper wire and the technicians have to be careful but
overall the benefits are tremendous. Fiber optic cabling has less of a carbon output, lower
emissions, and lower pricing. For more information about switching or building
your office using fiber optic cabling call Affordable Telephone today!
Affordable Telephone
Systems 866-666-9650
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Connectivity! . . . Our Commitment Guaranteed!