Fiber-optic cables have become the data transmission tools of the future. Still, they’re a new enough development that many are unsure of how exactly they work and why they should exchange other methods of transmission for these small, powerful tools.
In recent years, SelectROW’s projects have more often required the use of fiber optics to deliver results of the highest quality. Our hands-on knowledge has made us an expert resource in how fiber-optic cables work and why they offer immense benefits over existing data-sharing technology.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fiber Optics
The first step in bringing fiber optics into any project is having a complete and robust understanding of its inner workings — and making sure all parties are on the same page about utilizing this technology and adhering to its boundaries safely and effectively. Below are some of the most frequently asked questions we receive about working with this new, powerful equipment.
How Do Fiber-Optic Cables Transmit Data So Quickly?
To understand how they work, you must first understand what fiber optic cables are. One fiber optic cable can have hundreds of strands of optical fibers — strands of glass or plastic that are 10 times thinner than a strand of hair. Each of these strands is capable of transmitting pulses of light, as opposed to the electricity that runs through similar transmission tools.
Since fiber-optic cables use light for transmission, information can literally travel at the speed of light. These strands are then covered with another layer of glass, which the light reflects off of, allowing it to travel further. This extra layer is called cladding, and it prevents attenuation when information travels over long distances of cable.
How Do Fiber-Optic Cables Transmit High-Bandwidth Data?
These cables can work with a range of frequencies — a much more expansive range than other connections currently available. Most industries use copper wire or satellite connections to complete this work, but fiber-optic cables can accommodate more information at a time, allowing it to travel faster and upload and download information at higher speeds.
Are Fiber-Optic Cables More Effective Than Copper Cables and Satellites?
Yes, fiber-optic cables can handle more information at once and transmit it faster than satellite and copper cables, which use electrical signals instead of light. This difference also makes fiber-optic cables more adaptable and less susceptible to external factors like wind, rain and fire. Plus, unlike copper, the material used in the construction of fiber optic cables is not a conductive material, keeping the equipment safer in times of inclement weather.
Are Fiber-Optic Cables More Secure or Reliable?
Intercepting signals through fiber-optic cables has proven to be much more complicated and expensive than hacking copper wire and satellites. Because of that and its resistance to common hazards, fiber-optic cables present more security and reliability to users.
How Can SelectROW Help You?
Since our inception in 1972, SelectROW has leveraged new technologies to develop industry-leading projects for public utility companies, private investors and government contractors. Our knowledgeable personnel’s consistent use of fiber-optic cables has let us continue our distinction as one of the top project management teams in the country.
If your next project could benefit from the use of fiber optics, let SelectROW give you a comprehensive overview of our experience with such equipment. Contact us today to see firsthand how our expertise has enabled us to complete even the largest high-level projects with ease and efficiency.