Optical fiber is a technology associated with data transmission using light pulses traveling along a long fiber, which is usually made of glass or plastic materials. It is used for the transmission of data signals over large distances with higher speed and is used to provide internet, telephone, and television services. The basic structure of an optical fiber includes a core and a cladding. The cladding is a transparent material that surrounds the core and has a lighter refractive index than the core. The classification of optical fiber is based on various parameters like material used, refractive index of the material, and the propagation of light. The classification based on the refractive index includes step index fibers and graded index fibers. The classification based on the materials used includes plastic optical fibers and glass fibers. The classification based on the mode of propagation of light includes single-mode fibers and multimode fibers.
Advantages of optical fiber include:
- High bandwidth: Optical fibers have a higher bandwidth than traditional copper wires, which means they can transmit more data over longer distances.
- Low attenuation: Optical fibers have low signal loss over long distances, which means they can transmit signals over longer distances without the need for signal boosters.
- Immunity to electromagnetic interference: Optical fibers are immune to electromagnetic interference, which means they can be used in environments with high levels of electromagnetic interference, such as near power lines or in industrial settings.
- Security: Optical fibers are difficult to tap into, making them more secure than traditional copper wires.
