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Fiber optic cables offer many benefits, such as high bandwidth and low signal loss, but they also can be fragile and expensive. These cables have become a popular choice for telecommunications, but it’s important that you do your research before you invest in them.

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Are you looking into fiber optic cables for your internet connection needs? Do you want to know more about fiber optic cables and their benefits and drawbacks?

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In this article from Access Electric, we will explain the many pros of fiber optic cables, as well as the cons. We will also explain what fiber optic cables are and their alternatives on the market.

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Keep reading to learn all about fiber optic cables and their pros and cons.

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What are Fiber Optic Cables?

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Fiber optic cables are a type of cable that carries data over long distances. They are made of long, thin glass strands that are bundled together and use light to transmit their data. These cables are used most commonly for internet and telecommunication purposes.

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Fiber optic cables have become the preferred method of connection for businesses due to their speed, reliability, and other benefits.

Pros of Fiber Optic Cables

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Fiber optic cables are a popular method of internet connection due to their many benefits, such as fast and efficient connection quality, low signal loss, security, and long-distance transmission. These benefits offer great value to those looking to upgrade their connections.

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We will discuss these benefits in further detail below.

Fast and Efficient Connection Quality

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Fiber optic internet has become the preferred internet connection due to the speed and efficiency of the connection. They have higher bandwidth than other cable types, which allows the transmission of high quantities of data and high speeds.

Low Signal Loss

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Fiber optic cables offer lower signal loss than other cable types, making them more secure and efficient. Fiber optic cables do not radiate signals, which reduces the risk of signal interference or interception.

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Since they use light to transmit their data, they are resistant to electronic eavesdropping. This makes the overall security of fiber optic cables much greater than other cable types.

Can Grow with your Business

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Fiber optic cables can grow with your business connection needs as they are easy to install over original fiber, and wavelengths can be turned on and off on demand. Fiber optic cables can be installed in advance as well and left for years in preparation for growth needs.

Long-Distance Transmission

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Fiber optic cables work efficiently and quickly over extended distances primarily due to their light transmission technologies and unique cable properties. As light signals travel through the cables, it meets minimal resistance, which allows this signal to travel further than other cable types.

Cons of Fiber Optic Cables

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Some disadvantages of fiber optic cables include their installation costs, fragility, limited availability, and complexity of repairs.

Installation Costs

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Fiber optic cables can be expensive to install. Specialized training and equipment are required for the installation of these cables, which can increase costs. Additionally, maintenance and repair costs can be higher with fiber optic cables.

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It’s important to note that though these cables may cost more initially, they often save businesses money over the long term.

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Fragility

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Fiber optic cables are more fragile than other cable types, making them more vulnerable to stress and damage. Fiber optics are made of glass and are very thin, which means they may bend or break more easily due to age and wear or tear.

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Fiber optics can also suffer from “fiber fuse.” This is when an excess amount of light meets an imperfection in the fiber, which can destroy cables.

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Can Only Propagate Light in One Direction

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Fiber optic cables can only communicate light in one direction, which means data can only move in one direction. If your business needs bidirectional communication within your network, then you will need to install more than one cable.

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These disadvantages are worth noting when deciding to invest in fiber optic cables. While the advantages may outweigh the cons, it is up to your unique business needs to determine if it is worth the investment.

Fiber Optic Cable Alternatives

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Some of the most common alternatives to fiber optic cables for data transmission are copper cables and wireless technologies like Wi-Fi and cellular networks. These alternatives have their own uses but are generally less preferred for internet and telecommunication purposes.

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Copper cables are a more traditional type of cable, but they are less efficient over long distances and have lower bandwidth than fiber optics. Likewise, Wi-Fi does not offer the same level of reliability and speed as fiber optic cables.

Contact Access Electric for your Fiber Optic Needs

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If you’re looking to install fiber optic cables in your business in California, Access Electric has you covered. Access Electric is an industrial and commercial electrical company with over twenty years of experience that services Modesto, Fresno, Stockton, and the surrounding areas.

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Our aim as a company is to consistently surpass industry standards and ensure client satisfaction. With a well-trained and hand-selected team of over 80 electricians, we are ready and prepared to tackle any electrical project.

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Frequently Asked Questions:

Is fiber-optic cable easily bent or broken?

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The glass core of a fiber optic cable is only slightly thicker than a human hair and can be more susceptible to damage than other cables such as copper. Handle fiber optic cables with care, and don’t kink them to prevent damage.

Is fiber optic cable worth the investment?

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Fiber optic cables are worth the investment if you value a fast telecommunication or internet connection with higher bandwidth and long-distance transmission capabilities. Though it may cost more to install in the beginning, you will quickly be rewarded with a better, faster connection.