Feb. 22, 2021 - Most people relate fiber optic systems to telephone systems, cable TV setups or internet services. While fiber optics have improved long-distance phone calls, TV, and the internet by leaps and bounds, it has many other applications. Here we review the basics of fiber optics, the solutions available and what is behind their efficiency.

What are Fiber Optics?

When looking at the physical characteristics of fiber optics, the lines are strands as thin as human hair made of pure glass. They carry digital information over long distances but are also used for other applications including medical imaging and mechanical engineering inspection.

How Do Fiber Optics Work?

Fiber optics systems use light signals that bounce from the mirror-lined walls, or "cladding" creating "total internal reflection". The light waves travel great distances during the process because the cladding does not absorb light from the core. The system functions with two main components:

Fiber Optic Transmitter: The transmitter is found near the optical fiber and often uses a lens to focus the light into the fiber.

Fiber Optic Receiver: As the name implies, the receiver receives the incoming digital light signals and then decodes them before sending the electrical signal to either a computer, TV, or telephone using a photocell or photodiode to detect the light.

These parts create a smooth transmittance of information from computer to computer, or to TVs and phones, depending on the service triggered.

Why Choose Fiber Optics?

Fiber optics have become the most reliable, and secure internet connection infrastructure available on the market today. When compared to DSL or cable modem connections, fiber optics provide a stronger communication network for businesses by increasing the potential to connect to cloud-based services and remote servers. Despite its higher quality, it is also the less expensive option.

This is because it uses less copper wire to deliver information. Fiber optics also have a higher carrying capacity, which means more phone lines, connections and channels are available compared to non-fiber options. More cost savings are also realized because optical fibers are longer lasting and less susceptible to degradation. Therefore, they place less demand on power than non-fiber solutions. Many industries are choosing fiber optics because they are more flexible allowing for advanced applications. Because the system depends on light signals through glass instead of electrical signals through copper people enjoy clarity both in voice and streaming quality.

Who Benefits from Fiber Optics?

Fiber optic solutions are ideal for CATV, FTTP, Power Utility, video transmission, telecommunications, and cellular backhaul applications. However, with the growing demand for high-speed internet and broadcasting many organizations, including universities and corporations, require quality solutions that reduce worries over connectivity issues and improve focus on the work at hand. As well, wireless video transmission and live-streaming video is in higher demand with remote learning and work environments. As a result, fiber optics has proven to be beneficial across all sectors and industries. Fiber optics offer:

• Lightning-fast speed
• Higher bandwidth
• Access to cloud-based storage
• Rock-solid security
• Consistency and reliability
• Clear video transmission
• Support for live video streaming
• Cost savings

Flexibility and scalability offer organizations increased efficiency of live-video streaming, improved customer service, and streamlined management applications.

What Fiber Optic Systems are Available?

Full-service technical firms like VidOvation, can offer anything from design and engineering services to system integration and from system documentation and characterization to fusion splicing. Through expert consulting services, project management and support fiber optic systems can be designed to meet specific requirements for tailor-made solutions. As well, fiber optic solutions can be integrated into existing infrastructure, with the ability to meet almost any application or budget. Some lesser-known applications and industries using fiber optic systems include:

• Computer Networking: Infrastructures can be within one building or shared across many buildings more easily than other networks. It is an excellent option as it increases speed and also offers a customized solution in the business community.
• Surgery and Dentistry: Optics play a role in non-intrusive surgical methods, including endoscopy, microscopy and biomedical research.
• Automotive Industry: Fiber optic cables are used for auto lighting and safety features to transmit signals between different car parts in tight spaces.
• Lighting and Decorations: Decorative illumination has become quite advanced demanding an economical and attractive way to add lighting for events and holiday décor.
• Mechanical Inspections: Engineers and plumbers use fiber optics to reach tight spaces during inspections.
• Military and Space Applications: Secure data transmission is faster and easier using fiber optic cables.
• Field Video Production, Acquisition, Contribution, and Distribution: Wireless, cellular, fiber optic and IP technologies manage live-video streaming faster and create lower latency and higher video quality to meet the demands of today's "in the moment" news reporters.

VidOvation provides an array of fiber-optic systems, parts, products, and video streaming professional services. For a quote, questions, or other inquiries, contact VidOvation today.