Understanding the Function of Fiber Optics: Definition, Types, and Advantages Provided

Have you ever heard of fiber optic networks? This network serves as a physical transmission medium used to convey information and convert electrical signals into light waves. Of course, this concept falls under the optical category and also involves higher data capacity and speed operations.

Generally, in this condition, fiber optic is used to connect two network points with greater power within it. If you want to know more about the functions of fiber optic and other explanations, you can check below!

What is a Fiber Optic Network?

When hearing about fiber optic networks, some people might think of it as something complicated, but the concept to keep in mind here is quite simple. Optical fiber is a type of cable used to convert electrical signals into light, which can then be directly transmitted to another node point.

The conversion is done through a transmitter and can directly deliver information through light pulses. The transmitter itself is a container used to receive data information from fiber optics. Its type is equipped with either an LED or a laser, making the silica glass clearer and providing a better refractive index.

As for the explanation regarding the support structure of the four cylinders of different sizes from this device, you can check everything in detail below!

Outer or the widest layer used to wrap the outer part of the cable.

Coating or the outer layer that is made of elastic plastic to protect the core and cladding. Next, there is the cladding or the sheath that serves as the guide for the light waves. Following that is the core or the central part of the light wave transmission.
You need to know that the history of fiber optic cables is quite long. For the first time, fiber optics were patented by renowned researchers Robert Maurer, Donald Keck, and Peter Schultz. They brought important information about various types of cables capable of carrying light waves for specific purposes.

The Functions Attached to Fiber Optics

So what functions are attached to fiber optics when used? It turns out that the discovery of optical fibers has become an important part of supporting modern life today. You can achieve more practical creations with faster data transmission compared to before without the use of fiber optics.

Not only about the fiber optic network system, but also the foundation used from the main network becomes the central flow to facilitate data transfer in order to support a more efficient backbone. The easiest way is to directly check examples of the implementation of this function so that you get a more concrete picture.

An example is the implementation of 5G as a continuation of information transmission in Indonesia or in our surroundings. This implementation clearly poses a challenge considering that fiber optics have not yet been evenly distributed, so its application is not very good. In general, this system is used for communication channels.

In addition, it is also used to carry important elements and support every piece of information through a signal transmission process conducted with a large capacity within it. Thus, the transmission within it also becomes more optimal.

Types of Fiber Optic Cables That Are Widely Used

It is important to understand that fiber optic cables come in several types that are widely used. As for the types, you can check all of them in detail below!

1. Graded Index Multi Mode Fiber Optic
The first type you need to know is Graded Index Multi Mode Fiber Optic (Graded Index Multi Mode). This type is a combination of multimode step index and single mode. Then, it uses a type of refractive index that allows the light inside to move more slowly according to its digital signal.

This causes the digital signal within it to experience a more minimal distortion process compared to the distortion produced by other cables. This Graded Index Multi Mode Fiber Optic is equipped with a core diameter size ranging from 30 mm to 60 mm for the largest size.

2. MultiMode Fiber Optic (Step Index Multi Mode)

MultiMode Fiber Optic (Step Index Multi Mode) is the second type you need to understand. The diameter size it has is more than 100 microns, allowing the digital signal to pass through winding or wider paths. This type of optical fiber is very suitable for shorter distances within its capable limits.

The reason is to avoid bandwidth or limitations that make the network waves slower. Additionally, this type of cable can transmit infrared laser with a wavelength range from 850 to 1300 nanometers for its capacity limit.

3. Single Mode Fiber Optic (Step Index Single Mode)

The next type of optical cable is Single Mode Fiber Optic (Step Index Single Mode). This type is a single mode with a diameter size ranging from 8.3 to 10 microns. Next, the transmission used is a model capable of sending infrared signals within it.

Nano for single mode needs is equipped with a narrow diameter, allowing it to spread nano sizes up to 1310 and 1550 within it.

What Are the Advantages of Fiber Optic Cable Networks?

This fiber optic cable has several advantages that you need to know when used compared to other types. For a complete explanation, you can check everything below!

1. The security provided is better considering that this optical cable is more resistant to eavesdropping compared to other types of cables.
2. The maintenance costs for it are much cheaper compared to copper cables of the same length. In addition, another factor is that its weight is indeed lighter and its diameter tends to be thinner.
3. The next advantage provided is that the distance traveled through fiber optic cables can be up to 50 km without the need for regeneration. This makes the transmission distance of fiber optics greater compared to other media.
4. In addition, this fiber optic is also more interference-free and capable of changing light waves like a mirror inside its cable. This is what minimizes the effect of electric frequency occurring within it.

If you want to experience the advantages and benefits of fiber optics, don’t forget to use the network from Netmonk, which can help make network management easier. The subscription fees are also more affordable, especially since the bandwidth provided is more extensive.