There is a lot you may not know about fiber optic cables.
Fiber optic cables are seemingly everywhere, and responsible for the Internet connection we rely on every day. But how much do we know about these cables? Unless you consistently work with them up close, you may not know what makes up these cables and how important they are to everyday life. Even if you consider yourself a fiber optic cable expert, you may not know the fascinating history of the technology. Whether you are familiar with fiber optic cables or have only heard the name, read on to learn a few fascinating facts and figures about these increasingly important cables.
Fiber Optic Technology is Much Older Than You Think
Although fiber optic technology seems brand new, the original concepts used to create the first fiber optic cables were developed nearly 200 years ago! Two French inventors, Jean-Daniel Colladon and Jacques Babinet, came up with the concept of “Light Guiding” in the 1840s and helped bring it to life. They used tubes of flowing water to carry sunlight to a dark area. It took nearly another century until physicist Narinder Singh Kapany invented the initial fiber optic cables.
Fiber Optic Cables Contain Glass
Yes, these small and powerful cables have glass in them! It is this glass that helps move data through the cables at lightning speed and transmit data without signal loss.
Fiber Optic Cables Are Durable
You may think that because fiber optic cables have glass in them, they must be fragile. Each individual glass fiber is protected by several layers of coating. These are combined into a common multiple fiber cable where there is a central strength member and an outer jacket to give further protection. Those are further protected when used in multiple fiber cables by a strength member and an additional protective sheath. These cables are actually very durable and can be used in a variety of environments without becoming damaged. Cable installers need to be careful they do not stretch the cables, but even if damaged, cables can often be easily repaired.
Fiber Optic Cables Are “Greener” Than Copper Cables
If you are interested in “going green,” fiber optic cables are the superior choice. It takes little energy to send light through the cables, especially when compared to the energy required to send electrical signals through copper cables.
Fiber Optic Cables Provide High-Speed Connection for Numerous
Fiber optic cables provide high-speed paths to the Internet, digital signs, medical devices, A/V technology, security equipment, and much more.
Fiber Optic Cables Stretch Across Most of the U.S.
There are always new fiber optic cables being put into the ground across the United States. But so far, researchers have found that at least 100,000 miles of fiber optic cables are in the U.S., and the number will only continue to rise.
Get in Touch with FiberPlus
FiberPlus has been providing data communication solutions for 28 years in the Mid Atlantic Region for a number of different markets. What began as a cable installation company for Local Area Networks has grown into a leading provider of innovative technology solutions improving the way our customers communicate and keeping them secure. Our solutions now include:
- Structured Cabling (Fiberoptic, Copper and Coax for inside and outside plant networks)
- Electronic Security Systems (Access Control & CCTV Solutions)
- Wireless Access Point installations
- Public Safety DAS – Emergency Call Stations
- Audio/Video Services (Intercoms and Display Monitors)
- Support Services
- Specialty Systems
- Design/Build Services
FiberPlus promises the communities in which we serve that we will continue to expand and evolve as new technology is introduced within the telecommunications industry.
Have any questions? Interested in one of our services? Call FiberPlus today 800-394-3301, email us at info@fiberplusinc.com, or visit our contact page. Our offices are located in the Washington, DC metro area and Richmond, VA. In Pennsylvania, please call Pennsylvania Networks, Inc. at 814-259-3999.
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