Understanding Signal Transmission in Fiber Optic Cables

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Understanding Signal Transmission in Fiber Optic
Cables
The primary function of fiber optic cables is to
send signals across long distances. The
transmission of these signals takes place in the
form of light. This answers for the speed of
broadcast and its zero interference with other
electronic devices around. How does it actually
work? Each of the cables constitutes thin strands
of glass, which we often hear of as fiber
optics. These pieces of glass form the
core of these cables and facilitate the major
task of sending data, assisted by Fiber Optic
Patch Cords. But doesnt light travel in
waves, spreading straight from its point of
diffraction? Yes, absolutely. Then how do
light bend around corners while running
through the length of the fiber optic
cable? Lets try to unravel the science that
goes behind it.
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How Light Bends through Fiber Optic Cables? The
Mirror Effect When you show a flashlight beam
across a hallway, you will see the length of the
light extending till the next bend but wont be
able to see anything further. But placing a
mirror on the corner does the trick. You can now
see the light bending further. This is because
the mirror reflects the light. Thats
exactly how the fiber optic cables basically
work. Internal Reflection The reflection on
which these cables operate is often termed
as total internal reflection. Thats
because when you send the light signal, the
light remains within the cable and reflects
internally. This also ensures the data isnt
lost during the transmission. But the signals
sent through fiber optic cables eventually
degrade. Thats because of the decay of
the signal either due to the
wavelength or the affected purity of the optic
glass.
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Why so? The wavelengths that fiber optic
cables utilize to send over information
are much longer than the light visible to use.
We call these invisible ranges of long light
infrared. These infrared waves are when
passed through the fiber optic cables
weakens the transmission of data either by
absorption and scattering. So, basically, the
length of the waves reduces the accentuation of
the fiber optic cable. And if we use
longer waves with lower frequencies, it would
result in heat interference. The temperature of
surrounding objects will thus be affected
resulting in signal loss. How to Ensure Maximum
Utilization? Though fiber optic cables do
eventually degrade, getting good quality
cables and accessories can increase its life
significantly. For optimum functioning,
consider buying quality cables. The
wavelength of a typical good quality fiber
optic cable varies from 850 to 1550 nanometers.
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The accessories are equally important. The fiber
optic patch cords that connect the devices
through which the information transmits should
also be of best quality. Often the patch cords
decay and are assumed as cable decay,
resulting in increased cost investment.
Therefore, its always a great idea to get
your electronics supply only from branded
and reliable manufacturers. Its not
only important for the longevity of the
supplies but is also imperative from the
point of view of safety.