Unit 4 Assignment 1 Nt1310

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Copper vs. Fiber Todd Gerger NT1310 Abstract In this paper we will be looking at the differences between Copper and Fiber optic cables. We will discuss the differences between the two and why many of the current networks in operation use fiber on the backbone between equipment and telecommunications rooms or enclosures. Copper vs. Fiber In the comparison between fiber and copper fiber, costs of the fiber cable has come down quite a bit. The cable itself has become easier to install as well since the invention of the flexible fiber which makes it easier to pull the cable through places. The flexible fiber has not become widely used vs. copper yet due to the need for the costs to come down for the connections, the NIC’s. the hub’s, routers and switches. Fiber Advantages The following advantages of fiber over other cabling systems are: (Oliviero 250) Immunity to electromagnetic interference (EMI), higher data rates, longer maximum distances, and better security. With copper cabling there is one common cabling problem they are susceptible to EMI. EMI is a stray electromagnetism that interferes with the signal. All electrical cables generate a magnetic field around their central axis. If you pass a metal conductor through a magnetic field an electrical field is generated in that conductor. When you place two cables next to one another EMI will cause cross-talk which is where signals from one cable is picked up on the other cable. Because fiber does not conduct electricity and uses only light signals in a glass fiber instead of electrical signals through a metallic conductor, to transmit data. Since it does not use any metallic media it is immune to EMI. Higher Possible Data Rates (Oliviero 250) are possible because light is immune to interference and can be modulated at very high frequencies. It also travels almost instantaneously to its destination which

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