Feb. 22, 2021 - Most people relate fiber optic systems to telephone systems, cable TV setups or internet services. While fiber optics have improved long-distance phone calls, TV, and the internet by leaps and bounds, it has many other applications. Here we review the basics of fiber optics, the solutions available and what is behind their efficiency.
What are Fiber Optics?
When looking at the physical characteristics of fiber optics, the lines are strands as thin as human hair made of pure glass. They carry digital information over long distances but are also used for other applications including medical imaging and mechanical engineering inspection.
How Do Fiber Optics Work?
Fiber optics systems use light signals that bounce from the mirror-lined walls, or "cladding" creating "total internal reflection". The light waves travel great distances during the process because the cladding does not absorb light from the core. The system functions with two main components:
Fiber Optic Transmitter: The transmitter is found near the optical fiber and often uses a lens to focus the light into the fiber.
Fiber Optic Receiver: As the name implies, the receiver receives the incoming digital light signals and then decodes them before sending the electrical signal to either a computer, TV, or telephone using a photocell or photodiode to detect the light.
These parts create a smooth transmittance of information from computer to computer, or to TVs and phones, depending on the service triggered.
Why Choose Fiber Optics?
Fiber optics have become the most reliable, and secure internet connection infrastructure available on the market today. When compared to DSL or cable modem connections, fiber optics provide a stronger communication network for businesses by increasing the potential to connect to cloud-based services and remote servers. Despite its higher quality, it is also the less expensive option.
This is because it uses less copper wire to deliver information. Fiber optics also have a higher carrying capacity, which means more phone lines, connections and channels are available compared to non-fiber options. More cost savings are also realized because optical fibers are longer lasting and less susceptible to degradation. Therefore, they place less demand on power than non-fiber solutions. Many industries are choosing fiber optics because they are more flexible allowing for advanced applications. Because the system depends on light signals through glass instead of electrical signals through copper people enjoy clarity both in voice and streaming quality.
Who Benefits from Fiber Optics?
Fiber optic solutions are ideal for CATV, FTTP, Power Utility, video transmission, telecommunications, and cellular backhaul applications. However, with the growing demand for high-speed internet and broadcasting many organizations, including universities and corporations, require quality solutions that reduce worries over connectivity issues and improve focus on the work at hand. As well, wireless video transmission and live-streaming video is in higher demand with remote learning and work environments. As a result, fiber optics has proven to be beneficial across all sectors and industries. Fiber optics offer:
Flexibility and scalability offer organizations increased efficiency of live-video streaming, improved customer service, and streamlined management applications.
What Fiber Optic Systems are Available?
Full-service technical firms like VidOvation, can offer anything from design and engineering services to system integration and from system documentation and characterization to fusion splicing. Through expert consulting services, project management and support fiber optic systems can be designed to meet specific requirements for tailor-made solutions. As well, fiber optic solutions can be integrated into existing infrastructure, with the ability to meet almost any application or budget. Some lesser-known applications and industries using fiber optic systems include:
VidOvation provides an array of fiber-optic systems, parts, products, and video streaming professional services. For a quote, questions, or other inquiries, contact VidOvation today.
