The field of fiber optics refers to the application of optical fibers as a data communication solution. These optical fibers are composed of silica glass or, less commonly, plastic fibers which carry light along their length in order to transmit data. Optical fibers use a process called “total internal reflection�, which contains the light signal within the core of the fiber, acting as a sort of guide to direct the signal towards its desired destination, with little to no signal loss.

This technology allows data transmission over longer distances and at higher speeds than other, traditional forms of communication, such as copper wires or coaxial cables, while reducing the amount of information loss associated with data transmission.

Among all the other advantages of fiber optic cables, they are also well known for their increased performance is extreme conditions. Traditional forms of metal wires and coaxial cables can expand or contract with changing temperatures. These conditions can lower the cable’s performance. Fiber optic cables, however, can perform at high speeds despite the temperature outside, as they are not as susceptible to changes in temperature. This makes the fiber much more consistent and reliable than coaxial cable.

Coaxial cables are known for their susceptibility to electromagnetic interference, which can cause them to become less effective. Fiber optics, on the other hand, is not affected by external electrical signals, since data is transmitted with light. Furthermore, fiber optic cables have a high electrical resistance, making them safe to use near high-voltage equipment. Fiber optics’ immunity to electromagnetic interference and high electrical resistance are just two more advantages over metal wire and coaxial systems.

Optical fiber systems also offer more security than traditional mediums. Coaxial cables can leak information due to magnetic interference. However, optical fiber do not have this problem. Due to this decreased radiation, eavesdropping is made much more difficult and fiber optic transmission mediums are currently one of the most secure methods of information transfer. There are some types of optical fibers which are claimed to be impossible to tap.