Compared to the previous decade, technology has advanced in leaps and bounds. Phones are becoming slimmer and faster. Screens have become as small as a watch face and even foldable screens are available in certain commercial devices. With so much possible online and more devices becoming internet friendly, there is a steady increase in the demand for high speed internet that is reliable as well. Data bandwidths have increased from 1Mbps in 2010 to 100Mbps and even 1Gbps. Copper cables have a limitation of handling data bandwidths of 1.5Mbps upto a distance of 2.5kms. This lead to a mass adoption of fiber optic cables as they can support upto 2.5+Gbps upto a distance of 200kms.
There are furthermore advantages of fiber optic cable which has most businesses opting for a fiber optic network over a copper wire network.
Better Bandwidths
From the age of dial up networking, copper wires were used owing to the abundance of telephone lines. The line designed for carrying voice signals was effective in transmitting data signals as well. RJ45 was a step up from RJ11 protocol, as you have a separate channel for data transmission. However, the limited bandwidth becomes a bottleneck when it comes to sending data reliably. A multimode fiber optic cable of the same diameter as the copper wire is capable of carrying more data and at faster speeds.
Higher Data Transfer Speed
Copper wires use electric signals to transmit the data across the medium. Fiber optic, on the other hand, uses light for data transmission. Eliminating the reduction of speed from constant reflection, the light travels at speeds only 31% less than the actual speed of light. This is far superior than the data speeds achieved in the copper wire cables.
Greater Distance
The longest cable length you can achieve with a copper wire cable is 328 feet. The maximum length achievable in a OM6 multimode fiber optic cable depends on the network type. The distance to network type for OM6 cable is:
1. 2Kms for a 100 Mbit/s 100BASE-FX network
2. 1km for a 1 Gbit/s network
3. up to 550 m for a 10 Gbit/s network
Better Reliability
The electric signals are susceptible to electromagnetic interference that can interrupt data interruption. Moreover, the wires are susceptible to expansion or contraction based on the ambient temperatures. Due to the electrical signals, it was vital to keep the cables away from water or moisture. Except for bending, the fiber optic cables have nearly zero hazards that can affect the network performance. By using specialized armored fiber optic cables, you can run the cables through places with rodent issues or moisture.
Future Proofing
With better data bandwidth capability and ability to carry data to larger distances, fiber optic cables are better equipped for any future upgrades. By purchasing pre terminated fiber optic cable, you can cut down the installation times and have your network operation-ready in no time. Moreover, you have advanced converters to extend ethernet connections over fiber optic cables. Since most networks won’t be larger than 500 sq mtrs in area, OM5 or OM6 multimode cable can be used for 10 Gb, 40 Gb and 100/120 Gb speeds based on the requirements at that time.
Overall low costs
While the initial set-up cost for fiber optic cables is significantly higher than copper cables, the returns on investment is higher for fiber optic cable. Owing to the durability and reliability, the overall costs are lower in the long run. Not only can you keep them safe from damage, you can have them laid in tight spots such as overhead ducts or conduits and run into zero problems for years. As the technology evolves, there will be further decrease in the costs of fiber optic cables and related accessories.
Wrapping Up
In this competitive world where things change in real time, the demand for fiber optics is only ever growing. As the technology becomes more accessible, the demand will only increase. Be ahead of the herd by analyzing your current network, anticipate the future needs, and make the transition to fiber optic cables. In the long run, you shall surely be benefitted.