As if we haven’t reached our internet speed peaks enough, here we have an emerging broadband technology in the form of fibre optic (FO). The first FO link dates back to 1976 in Chicago. It replaced voice and data circuits, making long distance calls possible and secure since 1980.
What is it?
To appreciate fibre optics, it is best to have a clear understanding of what it is as a process and type of cable connection. As a process, fibre optics refers to the transmission of data through light pulses. As a cable, fibre optics is made of hair-like strands that are made of plastic or glass.
What sets fibre optic broadband apart from other internet connections is its use of light. With the speed 186,282.397 miles per second, light is the fastest speed in the entire universe. Any connection to the internet that does not utilize light or fibre optics is naturally slower.
This explains why web pages load superfast in less than the amount of time you blink your eyes if you are connected to the internet via fibre optics. With light as its data transmitter and receiver, it is possible to do anything on the internet uninterruptedly such as web surfing, video streaming, video conferencing, software updating, television watching and more. Sending large files won’t be a problem just as downloading the same file size and more won’t be an issue.
Copper VS Fibre
Copper wires are found in almost all electronic devices such as phones, TV cables and connectivity wires for the internet. Copper has been the medium of choice for electronic applications given its high electrical conductivity. However, its high conductivity is also its own pitfall due to its susceptibility to electromagnetic interference. And with the universal need for a stable internet connection, copper wires in DSL cables always fall a level short in terms of stability rating.
One of optical fibres’ selling points is that it remains unaffected by this electromagnetic interference. For individuals and organisations that require a (super) fast, uninterrupted internet connection, a fibre broadband connection is a smart investment. Regardless if several users are connected to the internet, internet speed will remain unaffected. Further, given the sophisticated construction of its wires, the clear glass tube where transmission of light takes place and its limited sharing capabilities, a fibre optic broadband is very secure.
Given the security and other practical advantages, it does not necessarily mean that it is an entirely perfect technology. It also prone to latency issues just like any internet connection that utilises copper wires. However, by comparison, FO broadband is still at an advantage in terms of latency issues and internet speed.
Before You Sign Up
It gets exciting when you think about the benefits of having this kind of connection in your home. However, a fibre connection requires geographic eligibility, and it is best to check coverage areas in Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland or wherever you may be located in Australia if your location can be serviced with a fibre broadband connection.