Unit 4 Assignment 1: Copper vs. Fiber

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In the world of cabling there are two types of cables and they are Copper and Fiber Optics. Some companies chose fiber over copper but those companies have the money to use Fiber Optics and some just go with copper because it is cheaper to use. Each of these two cables has its own strengths and weaknesses. Copper: Conductivity and Heat Resistant Copper wires are second only to silver when it comes to electrical conductivity. Compared with other non-precious metals, copper wires can handle a wider load of electrical power, allowing it to use less insulation and armoring. They have high resistance to heat, eliminating most issues of overloading. Copper wires are also resistant to corrosion. Although patina, a tarnish produced by oxidation, might be present, the material will not lose functionality. Malleability and Ductility Copper has a high ductility, allowing wires thinner than human hair strands. Malleability allows it to be bent into nearly any form without the threat of breaking. Copper is used to create thick electrical cable wires within electrical posts and in applications where very thin wires are need, such as in headphone wires. Small Amounts of Electricity Although copper wires are excellent conductors, it does not perform very well when handling very exact amounts of small electrical charges. Copper wires are usually not used in high-tech automotive parts and semiconductors because of its inability to control electrical surges. Manufacturers and makers of semiconductors often use silver and gold wires in these applications because these metals are more stable when handling small amounts of electricity, ensuring no electrical surges destroy sensitive components. Electromagnetic Interference Copper wire is susceptible to electromagnetic interference, potentially leading to some devices working improperly. Applications that require connection

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