Overview of Fibre Optic Cables
When we talk about data cabling, we’re often discussing standard cabling — cat6/cat7/cat8. But businesses have another option when it comes to data cabling — fibre optic cables.
Standard cabling like cat6 cables use electrical power to send signals through the wiring. Fibre optic on the other hand uses light to transmit data, which is the fastest method available. Not only is fibre optic super-fast, but it is also cleaner, more efficient, and more reliable as they’re immune to electrical interference.
Businesses opt for fibre optics for several reasons, which we’ll touch on later in this blog. But fibre optics have made their mark on the network installations world and stand as a premium method for communications.
While businesses from any industry can benefit from fibre optic cabling, there’s a few industries that have really grasped the full benefits from fibre. The healthcare industry requires some powerful machinery for life changing/saving practices. MRIs, X-rays, CT scans, endoscopes are more use fibre optic cables to provide efficient and accurate information. The automotive, computing, and telecoms industries also require fast signal transmission across large distances, where fibre can demonstrate its true strengths.
Key Advantages of Fibre Optic Cables
High-Speed Data Transmission
Fibre is 10x faster than a standard cat6 cable, often reaching 100Gbps. This is due to its use of light signals instead of electrical power. Even compared to the modern cat8 cable, fibre is still significantly faster. This makes intensive uses like high-speed internet streaming, even in 4K or 8K, a breeze for fibre optic cabling.
Superior Signal Quality
The light signals used within fibre optic cables also mean that the quality of the signals is clearer. This is because they’re pretty much immune to electromagnetic interference and crosstalk, which can have a negative impact on copper cabling. For example, cat6 cabling can be affected by nearby electrical equipment. So, in comparison, fibre optics have a much cleaner signal, even over long distances.
Longevity
Fibre optics have a significantly longer lifespan in comparison to traditional copper cabling, as the light signals are less susceptible to degradation. This means fibre optic cables can last 20-25 years, while cat6 typically last for 10-15 years.
Lightweight and Flexible Design
Fibre optic cabling is considerably lighter in weight in comparison to cat6 cabling. This is because it consists of glass fibres instead of copper, giving it a smaller diameter too. Because it’s lightweight, it’s easier to install and transport, but it also makes it flexible too. It can be used in complex or tight installations, if you’re careful not to bend it too much as the glass fibres will damage.
Read: 7 benefits of proper cabling
Disadvantages of Fibre Optic Cables
High Initial Costs
Fibre optic cabling is initially more expensive than copper cabling. It takes significant investment to install, but you’ll then reap the rewards for decades. It wasn’t long ago that fibre cost double the price of copper cabling, and while the gap has narrowed, it is still the more expensive option.
Fragility and Maintenance
Due to the glass fibres within the cables, it is more fragile than copper cabling. To avoid damage, you need to limit the bend radius of corners. It also needs regular maintenance, including testing and cleaning to ensure its functioning to its full potential. If a section of fibre cabling gets damaged, it can be repaired by splicing broken sections together. This is a delicate and complex process that needs to be left to the professionals.
Limited Availability in Some Areas
Not every geological area can benefit from fibre optic cabling. Very rural or underdeveloped areas don’t always have access to fibre, but companies like Openreach are slowly making fibre available across even the most remote areas. These rural areas may still have slower speeds in comparison to urban areas due to the distance between fibre cables and the homes.
Fibre Optic Cables vs Traditional Cables
We’ve already made comparisons between fibre optic cabling and traditional cabling, but let’s summarise…
When comparing fibre optic cables to traditional copper cables, three main factors come into play: speed, durability, and cost.
Fibre optics offer significantly higher speeds, with data transmission rates reaching up to 100Gbps, making them ideal for businesses that require rapid and reliable connectivity.
They also provide better durability, as they are immune to electromagnetic interference and experience less signal degradation over long distances.
However, the initial cost of fibre optic installation is higher than copper structured cabling, which remains a more budget-friendly choice for businesses with less intensive data needs.
While large enterprises benefit greatly from fibre’s speed and reliability, smaller businesses or those operating in areas with limited fibre availability may still find copper cabling a practical and cost-effective solution for their networking needs.
Applications of Fibre Optic Cables
Fibre optic cables have become essential across various industries due to their high-speed data transmission and reliability. Telecommunications is one of the largest sectors relying on fibre optics, enabling seamless internet, VoIP, and streaming services. Medical imaging also benefits significantly, as fibre cables power technologies like endoscopes, MRI scans, and real-time data sharing between healthcare facilities. The automotive and aerospace industries use fibre optics for in-vehicle networking and high-speed data exchange in aircraft.
On a residential level, fibre optics are transforming home networking by providing high-speed internet, smart home connectivity, and ultra-HD streaming capabilities. With the increasing demand for stable and fast connections, fibre is becoming the preferred choice for households looking to future-proof their digital infrastructure.
Looking ahead, 5G networks will rely on fibre optics to support ultra-fast data transfer between towers and devices, while the Internet of Things (IoT) will drive further adoption as businesses and homes integrate more connected devices. Fibre's low latency and high bandwidth make it a critical component in shaping the future of digital communication.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Fibre Optic Cables
When deciding whether to invest in fibre optic cabling, several factors need to be considered. Installation costs can be higher than traditional copper cabling, but the long-term benefits, such as reliability and speed, often outweigh the initial expense. Network requirements also play a crucial role — businesses handling large volumes of data, like cloud service providers and financial institutions, will see the greatest advantages from fibre. Scalability is another key factor, as fibre optics support growing data demands without significant infrastructure changes.
Remember, installation and maintenance require skilled technicians, as fibre optics are more delicate than copper cables. Proper handling, splicing, and testing are crucial to ensure optimal performance. Compatibility with existing infrastructure is another consideration — while many modern networks support fibre, older systems may require additional upgrades or converters to integrate seamlessly. Businesses and homeowners must weigh these factors to determine if fibre optics align with their current and future networking needs.
