Do you know what fiber optic cables are made of? How do they work? In this blog post, we will take a closer look at fiber optic cables and explore their inner workings. We’ll discuss the different materials that are used to make fiber optic cables, and we’ll explain how light is transmitted through them. Keep reading for an in-depth look at fiber optics!
A Fiber Optic Cable Can Be Divided into Five Distinct Components
Understanding the fundamentals of fiber optics can seem overwhelming. However, when you break it down into the five individual components of optical fiber, it becomes much easier to comprehend. Here’s an overview of the five components found in a typical fiber optic cable.
Core
The optical fiber core is the channel through which light propagates. By transmitting optical signals from an associated light source to the receiving device, it enables light to pass through it. The core of an optical fiber is akin to a strand of glass or plastic that’s so thin it can barely be seen with the naked eye, measuring in at diameters thinner than human hair.
Cladding
A protective coating of glass or plastic, known as cladding fiber, covers the core of all fiber cables. This slim layer of protection encases and protects the cable, guaranteeing its optimal performance. Its refractive index is lower than the core, a fundamental requirement for fiber optics engineering. To accurately gauge an object’s capacity to deflect rays of light, we measure its refractive index. If the cladding doesn’t have a lower number than the core, it won’t be able to keep the light confined to the core.
Imagine cladding as an invisible barrier that keeps the signal confined to the core for long-distance communication. Therefore, when cladding is warpped around the core, signals remain strong and intact while traversing along the entire length of the fiber.
Coating
The fiber optic construction process is incomplete without the protective outer plastic coating, which adds strength and stability to the optical fiber. By reinforcing the cable’s inner structure and defending it against kinks or bends, this protective coating strengthens durability while also cushioning impacts.
Strengthening Fibers
Every fiber optic cable is reinforced with strength-enhancing fibers, protecting the core from straining or being crushed during installation. Made of robust materials such as glass or plastic, these fibers guard the delicate core of fiber optic cables to ensure their strength and longevity. And, if you haven’t realized it already – these components are all focused on safeguarding the core. The core of a fiber cable is by far the most essential and susceptible element, making it imperative to be well-protected.
Cable Jacket
The cable jacket serves as the crowning layer that completes the construction of a fiber optic cable. The cable jacket is the outer layer of the fiber optic cable and serves to protect the cable from environmental hazards.
How Does Fiber Internet Work?
Picture a glass or plastic thread so slim that it’s smaller than even a single strand of human hair, capable of carrying light signals over miles and miles. Astonishingly large quantities of data are quickly transmitted through these light signals. With this technology, you can indulge in your favorite films, connect with long-lost friends online and access any information you need instantaneously.
But how is this possible? Upon completion of fiber optic installation, light enters the cable and is redirected within by being reflected against its walls at a specific angle that renders it unable to exit. This process is known as Total Internal Reflection (TIR).
The TIR effects force the light beam to travel down the cable, with the help of cladding, until the other end is reached. It’s here that an Optical Receiver (OR) captures the light signals and decodes them into digital data or voice messages, depending on the nature of their origin. Finally, this information is then transmitted to its destination.
So there you have it – fiber internet is made possible by the genius of engineering and science, which has created a way for us to access the internet quickly and easily.
Ready to Upgrade to Fiber Optics?
Now that you know more about fiber optics, make sure you take advantage of its many benefits: secure data transmissions, no reliance on electricity, and fast speeds. When you’re ready to upgrade to fiber optics, make sure you trust a professional team to handle the installation process. From cladding and coating to strengthening fibers, our experts will ensure your cables are securely installed and ready for use right away. Contact ADD Communications today to find out more about how we can help you get connected!
