Fiber Optic Cable Network for Business
Fiber Optic Cable Network Benefits:
- Faster transmission speeds
- Reduced signal loss
- No EMI or fire hazard
- Long lasting durability
Installing a fiber optic cable network at your workplace can solve many data communications problems, and is a great method to use when wiring a new facility that you plan on being in for at least a few years. There are many advantages to using fiber optic cable – however, it is not always necessary. Most computer data is transmitted over ordinary wires for short distances, and at a low speed. For businesses that mostly transmit data between personal computers and printers, fiber optic cable would be impractical because of its relatively high cost. In that situation, a copper cabling network installation would be more suitable. However, there are some unique advantages associated with using fiber optic cabling networks that businesses should consider when deciding what type of network cabling best suits their particular needs. While copper has its own advantages (such as its lower initial cost), there is a growing list of advantages that are proven to build enough value in a fiber optic cable network to make it a worthwhile option for many businesses.
A Custom Solution
NetQ Multimedia has high performance, high bandwidth single-mode and multi-mode optical fiber solutions available with your choice of ANSI/TIA-568 compliant connectors, all of which have excellent performance characteristics. This enables flexibility in design and enables you to achieve the performance metrics that are right for your business or network application.
Faster Data Transmission
As network demands increase, speed is an immensely important factor, and fiber optic cables are able to transport information significantly faster than copper cable. Information transmitted over fiber optic cables travels almost as fast as the speed of light! This incredible speed in fiber optic cable transmission means increased productivity in the workplace, which is one of the most prevalent reasons that many businesses are converting to fiber optics. Another reason many companies are choosing to install fiber optic cables is the dependability of this particular type of cabling. Fiber optic is a more modern approach to telecommunications wiring, and will be around for years in the future.
Reduced Signal Loss
With copper cabling, sometimes signal loss – also called attenuation – can be an issue. This signal loss occurs as information travels over long distances. Attenuation can still occur with fiber optic cabling; however, the signal loss that takes place over long distances is reduced significantly. Fiber optic cables have the capacity to travel up to 24.8 miles without signal loss in comparison to the maximum of 9,328 ft. with copper.
No Electromagnetic Interference
Electromagnetic interference, or EMI, is a common type of signal noise associated with electrical currents in wires. EMI has been a problem with data transmission in the past, particularly if cables were improperly installed. The primary cause of EMI is the electrical current generated by magnetic field lines cutting across the conductors in network cables. Fiber optic cables are immune to EMI since their signals are transmitted as light instead of current. This allows fiber optic cables to transmit signals through places where other types of cables cannot. EMI in non-fiber optic wires can interfere with other wiring configurations, subsequently wreaking havoc on an entire network.
No Fire Hazard
For the same reason that fiber optic cables do not produce EMI, they do not present a potential fire hazard. This is because fiber optic cables do not conduct electricity. For this reason, fiber optic cabling is considered a safer alternative to other forms of wiring.
Long Lasting & Durable
Since system networks will always play a significant role in a workplace’s daily procedures, durability becomes a very important concern. Fiber optic cables do not break easily, meaning they will not have to be replaced as often as other wiring systems. Fiber optic cable is partially made of glass, however that glass is actually stronger per unit area than its copper alternative. That glass inside the fiber optic cable is wrapped in a “jacket” of wire that further strengthens the cable, making it very long lasting. Also, since fiber optic cable systems support what is known as a passive network, these systems are much less likely to experience failure during a power outage or other situation that would normally cause some type of system failure.
While copper cable is still a great option for businesses to build their system networks on, the potential for fiber optics to be a game changer is clear. While the process of installing fiber optic hardware is more involved and therefore more expensive than the alternative, the fact that it presents a highly effective, symmetrical-grade bandwidth, makes it an ideal choice for the enterprise market.
If you are considering a fiber optic cable network for your business, contact NetQ Multimedia today for a free quote.