Fiber Optic Cables

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Introduction to Fiber Optic Cables

Fiber optic cables are high-speed transmission media that use light to transmit data instead of electrical signals. These cables are widely used in networking due to their high bandwidth, long-distance capabilities, and resistance to electromagnetic interference.

There are two main types of fiber optic cables:

1. Single-mode fiber (SMF)

2. Multi-mode fiber (MMF)

Fiber Optic Cables (Single-mode & Multi-mode)

1. Fiber Optic Structure

A fiber optic cable consists of the following layers:

• Core: The central glass or plastic part through which light travels.

• Cladding: A layer surrounding the core that reflects light back into it, preventing signal loss.

• Buffer Coating: A protective layer to safeguard the fiber.

• Jacket: The outer protective covering.

Optical Fiber Structure

2. Differences Between Single-mode & Multi-mode Fiber

Feature	Single-mode Fiber (SMF)	Multi-mode Fiber (MMF)
Core Diameter	Small (8-10 µm)	Large (50-62.5 µm)
Light Source	Laser	LED
Distance	Long distance (Up to 100 km)	Short distance (Up to 2 km)
Bandwidth	Higher	Lower
Cost	More expensive	Less expensive
Typical Use	WAN, MAN, Long-haul networks	LAN, Data Centers, Short-distance links

3. Working Principle of Fiber Optic Communication

1. Light Source: A laser or LED injects light pulses into the fiber.

2. Total Internal Reflection: Light travels through the fiber core, bouncing off the cladding.

3. Receiving End: The light pulses are converted back into electrical signals by a receiver.

Total Internal Reflection

Keywords

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