FAQs about Fiber Optic Cables

A fiber optic cable: what is it?

The term "fiber optic cable" refers to a particular kind of cabling that transmits data signals over great distances using tiny glass or plastic fiber strands.

How do fiber-optic cables function?

Light, rather than electrical signals, is used to transport data transmissions across fiber optic connections. Light is transmitted through the fiber core and reflected off the cladding to remain inside the fiber. After passing through the fiber, the light is transformed back into an electrical signal at the other end.

What distinguishes fiber optic cables from copper cables?

Without signal quality degradation or electromagnetic radiation interference, fiber optic cables can carry data over greater distances and at much higher rates. 

Can Fiber Optic cables carry electricity?

Fiber optic cables cannot carry electricity because they are designed to transmit data signals using light, not electrical current. Fiber optic cables are made up of thin strands of glass or plastic fibers that are used to transmit data signals over long distances by converting electrical signals into light pulses that travel through the fiber core. Since there is no electrical current flowing through the cable, it cannot be used to carry electrical power. 

Are Fiber Optic cables Fragile?

Compared to copper cables, fiber optic cables are more brittle because they are constructed of delicate glass or plastic fiber strands that are more readily broken when handled carelessly. The fiber optic wires can be damaged by excessive pulling or crushing and are vulnerable to bending or twisting beyond their minimum bend radius.

What do Fiber Optic cables do?

Fiber optic cables transmit data signals over long distances using light instead of electrical signals. They are used in a variety of applications, such as telecommunications, networking, cable television, and internet services.

Who invented Fiber Optic cables?

The development of fiber optic cables involved a large number of scientists and engineers, but Charles Kao and George Hockham's early work on the idea of using glass fibers for communication and the subsequent work of Maurer, Keck, and Schultz on low-loss optical fibers were crucial in making fiber optic cables a practical reality.

Where are Fiber optic cables installed?

Telecommunications networks: To transfer voice, data, and video information, telephone companies and internet service providers are linked by fiber optic cables.

Fiber optic cables are used in local area networks (LANs) to link computers, servers, and other network devices to one another and to the internet.

For long-distance transmission of high-quality video signals in cable television networks, fiber optic cables are employed.

Applications in the military and aerospace: Fiber optic cables are utilized in these fields because they are strong, lightweight, and immune to electromagnetic interference.

Medical equipment: In order to transport images and messages without the risk of electric shock, fiber optic cables are utilized in medical equipment such as endoscopes and surgical instruments.

Industrial automation: In order to transmit data signals and control signals in abrasive environments like factories and oil refineries, fiber optic cables are utilized in industrial automation.

Types of Fiber Optic cables

Single-mode fiber (SMF): This type of fiber optic cable has a small core size and is designed for long-distance transmission of data signals. SMF typically uses a laser as the light source and is used in telecommunications, cable television, and internet services.

Multimode fiber (MMF): This type of fiber optic cable has a larger core size and is used for shorter distance transmission of data signals. MMF typically uses an LED as the light source and is used in LANs and other short-distance communication networks.

Loose-tube fiber optic cable: This type of fiber optic cable consists of several fibers encased in protective tubes that are filled with gel to protect the fibers from moisture and other environmental factors. Loose-tube fiber optic cables are commonly used in outdoor installations where they are exposed to harsh weather conditions.

Tight-buffered fiber optic cable: This type of fiber optic cable consists of several fibers that are coated with a protective material to provide additional strength and protection. Tight-buffered fiber optic cables are commonly used in indoor installations, such as LANs, and are easier to terminate and splice than loose-tube cables.

Armored fiber optic cable: This type of fiber optic cable has a protective layer of metal or other material around the fiber core to provide additional protection against crushing, bending, and other types of physical damage. Armored fiber optic cables are commonly used in industrial and military applications where the cables may be exposed to harsh environmental conditions.

Does Fiber Optic Cable Degrade over time?

When installed, maintained, and handled correctly, fiber optic cables can last for decades and continue to function as intended. Contrary to copper cables, which are susceptible to corrosion and wear and tear over time, fiber optic cables are not affected by these problems.

Fiber optic cables, however, are susceptible to outside influences that over time may result in signal loss or deterioration. For instance, the performance of the cables may be impacted by their exposure to high temperatures, dampness, or physical harm. The performance of the cables can also be impacted by improper installation, termination, or splicing.

Do fiber optic cables emit radiation?

Radiation cannot be emitted by fiber optic wires. Fiber optic connections transmit light signals rather than electrical messages, which can generate electromagnetic radiation, while copper cables transmit electrical signals and can do so. As a result, fiber optic cables are safer to use in delicate settings like hospitals or close to electronic devices.

It's crucial to remember, though, that fiber optic cable-based signal transmission and reception apparatus, including photodiodes and lasers, can emit trace amounts of EM radiation. However, the radiation levels these parts create are often quite low and much below safe levels.

Where to buy fiber optic cables in Kenya?

You can place an online order at CPTechmall or call :+254 708 584883

What fiber optic cables are available?

FIBER FTTX ADSS 144F

FIBER FTTX ADSS 96F

FIBER FTTX ADSS 48F

FIBER FTTX ADSS 24F

FIBER FTTX ADSS 12F

FIBER OPTIC OUTDOOR DROP CABLE

FIBER OPTIC INDOOR DROP CABLE