Fiber Optic Technology: Benefits, Drawbacks, and Installation

Advantages and Disadvantages of Fiber Optics

Fiber optics enables Internet surfing at speeds of two million bps. This provides continuous, unlimited access 24 hours a day, without congestions. It allows for real-time video and sound transmission. Installation is easy. It is immune to noise and light interference. Since fibers are not lost, transmission is secure. The lack of electrical signals in the fiber prevents shocks or other hazards. They are suitable for work in explosive environments. Fiber presents a smaller footprint than other media, and the cable weighs less. The raw material for its manufacture is abundant in nature. It offers compatibility with digital technology.

Disadvantages:

• Only people living in areas where the fiber optic network is already installed can use it.
• The cost of fiber connection and installation of optical fibers is high.
• Limited availability.
• Fragility of connectors.
• Difficulty in repairing a broken wire in the field.

Factors in Connection Loss

Influences include the fragility of the fibers, which break easily and are very difficult to repair in the field. Connectors are limited, and the cost of maintenance and installation is very high.

Preparing the Ends of the Fiber

Opening the Cover:

If the cover is made of Kevlar, cut it open with a stripping tool to expose the bundle of fibers. Separate the fibers, as they may be stuck together due to gel.

Elimination of Secondary or Primary Protection:

This can be removed by chemical or mechanical means.

Cutting Optical Fibers:

It is important that the cuts are perpendicular and free of irregularities. After cutting, it is advisable to check the ends with a microscope.

Types of Joints

Connectors:

The 568SC is recommended because it maintains polarity. The position on the adapter is referred to as A and B. BFOC/2.5 connectors and adapters (ST Type) installed may continue to be used in current and future platforms. Multimode connectors and adapters are represented by the color ivory. Singlemode connectors and adapters are represented by the color blue. For the termination of an optical fiber, it is necessary to use connectors or splice pigtails (armored cable with connector) by fusion.

Different Equipment for Measuring and Checking

• Fusionadora (Fusion Splicer)
• Cortadora (Cutter)
• OTDR
• Fuentes óptica (Optical Sources)
• Detector power laser and LED light
• Medidores visibles (Visible meters)
• Identificadores active fibers (Active fiber identifiers)