Businesses invest in network systems with the intent of them performing well and lasting long. With so many cable options out there, it is difficult for companies to determine which cords will serve their operational needs best. To help you in the pursuit of an efficient cabling system, CableWholesale explores the main reasons IT professionals choose fiber optic cables for networks.

The Biggest Reasons IT Professionals Choose Fiber Optic Cables

So, what draws IT professionals toward fiber optic cables? We review the most common rationale for fiber optic popularity over another common type of wire in the IT field: copper cables.

Fiber Optics Have Impressive Transmission Speeds

Fiber optic cables’ transmission speed measures in gigabits of data per second (Gbps), while some measure in terabits of data per second (Tbps).

The bandwidth for fiber optic cables is more ideal than most other cords. Copper-based cables, also popular for IT purposes, max out at 40 Gbps. Fiber optics’ data transmission, on the other hand, gets hundreds of terabits per second. There’s no race here—fiber optic cables are faster.

Fiber Optic Cables Are Resistant to Electromagnetic Interference

A huge issue that IT professionals run into when setting up networks with copper cables is electromagnetic interference (EMI). Copper cables produce a field of interference around themselves due to the electrical signaling.

When bundled together, copper cables can interfere with one another, causing something called crosstalk. Severe instances of crosstalk can hinder data transmission efficacy and security.

With fiber optic cables, IT professionals don’t have to fret over crosstalk. Fiber optic cords use light transmission, which doesn’t create any EMI. Because of the lack of EMI, fiber cables end up transferring data more effectively and securely.

IT Professionals Can Cover Greater Distance With Fiber Optics

Nearly all cables experience attenuation, where the signal weakens as the cable distance increases. However, fiber optic cables provide considerable coverage before showing signs of attenuation.

For companies that require a large network, fiber optics will produce the least number of distance-related issues. Fiber optics have the potential to transmit signals for over 24 miles. Of course, IT pros must utilize fiber optic cable accessories to keep any substantially expansive networks well-maintained and safe. By comparison, governing standards restrict copper cables to distances of roughly 330 feet.

Fiber Optics Are Easier for Cable Management and Space Optimization

Because they are significantly smaller than other cables, fiber optics are convenient for spatial optimization and effective cable management. Fiber optic cords are so narrow that they’re measured using microns, which are millionths of a meter.

Small but mighty: fiber optics support the transmission of large data quantities over great distances at intense speeds. They require protective sheathing that jacks up their diameter to about two millimeters, still slimmer than their copper counterparts.

Because fiber optics are so thin, IT professionals and building management find ease in cabling installation and organization. Accessing network components and troubleshooting when any cabling issues arise is simpler to navigate when wires aren’t overcrowding one another.

Fashion, Function, and Safety: Not only do fiber optic cords look tidier than bundles of copper cables and function more efficiently, but they also receive more airflow, making them safer. More spaces between cables mean better air circulation, essential to electrical fire prevention and equipment longevity.

Fiber Optic Cables Can Cater to Future Networks

Every year, it seems like there are several releases of new technological advances, accessories, and devices, another one of the main reasons IT professionals choose fiber optic cables. When companies upgrade their network setups to have fiber optic cables, they’re setting themselves up for future success.

A fiber optic cable infrastructure will continue to support your company’s needs, even as bandwidth requirements evolve. Because fiber optics’ specifics are so advance, your network will operate fine as data transmission needs grow. A fiber optic network will support your business operations for many, many years to come, making it a cost-effective investment.

Different Types of Fiber Optic Cables for IT Professionals To Choose From

IT professionals categorize fiber optic cables into two main categories: single-mode and multi-mode. Read on to discover the differences between the two main types of fiber optic cables.

Single-mode

While most applications utilize two fibers, single-mode fiber optic cables use a single strand of glass fiber with only one transmission mode. This type of fiber optic cable is narrow, commonly measuring eight to ten microns in diameter.

For applications that send data at a multi-frequency and only utilize one cable, IT pros regularly use single-mode fiber optics. While single-mode fiber optics are known to have a considerably faster transmission rate and are better for longer distances than multi-mode, they’re often pricier.

Multi-Mode

Multi-mode fiber optics are larger than single-mode, measuring with diameters ranging from 50 to 100 microns. Applications that require two fibers enlist the help of multi-mode fiber optics.

Multi-mode fiber optic cables can provide impressive speeds and bandwidth for medium lengths. When IT pros attempt to use multi-mode cables for longer distances, they often experience signal distortion at the receiving end. Signal distortion results in incomplete and unclear messages that are unreliable for company operational purposes.

Some Drawbacks of Working With Fiber Optics To Consider

With all the advantages of fiber optics, it’s still worth our time to peruse their downsides. Understanding their drawbacks can help you decide whether they’re suitable for your company’s needs and budget.

They’re Fragile

We’ve mentioned how advantageous fiber optics’ minuscule size is, but we can’t overlook the disadvantages of their small size. Fiber optics are more dainty than electrical wires and more susceptible to breaking. Because fiber cables are expensive, installation must go as smoothly as possible.

They’re Challenging To Install

Due to their fragility, fiber optics are especially tricky to install. Businesses should hire professionals to install them or enlist the help of their IT department.

They’re Costly

With all their advantages, it’s no surprise that fiber optic cables run at a higher cost than other cables. Though the cost of fiber optics has gone down recently because of an increase in both demand and supply, they’re still more expensive than the alternatives.

When it comes to computer networks, people use the term “topology” to refer to a network’s arrangement. The four different types of computer network topologies have varying communication elements that distinguish them from one another. The specifics of each topology inform how its network components interact and connect with one another. CableWholesale dives into the most common types of network topologies and what sets them apart.

Bus Topology

Bus topologies have the simplest layout. In a bus topology, there is a main cable (also known as the bus) that connects to each of the network’s devices. Network users utilize the main cable to relay data information from one end of the bus to the other.

Because only one cable is responsible for transmitting messages, all of the network’s devices may hear a sent message, but only the intended receiver accepts it. This topology can get noisy, so it’s best for smaller network setups with fewer devices.

Star Topology

In star topology, you use a central hub or switch as a sort of middleman for data transmission. Each network device enlists the central hub when requesting or providing communication.

Star topologies are easy to troubleshoot and scale and have the advantage of one failed node not impacting the others. The centralized device must always remain in quality condition for this topology to work effectively.

Ring Topology

Ring topology gets its name from the ring shape that’s formed as a result of each device connecting to two other devices in the network. Devices in this type of topology send messages in a unified direction.

One downside to this topology type is that if one device fails, the rest of the network suffers, too. On the flipside, this makes troubleshooting easier, as IT can quickly locate which node stopped the message from completing its circular cycle.

Mesh Topology

The two different network topologies using mesh are full mesh and partial mesh.

With full mesh, every device is connected to every other device within the network. In partial mesh topologies, some computer systems aren’t hooked up to every other device.

Various connections within mesh topology allow direct, uninterrupted, and secure communication between nodes. However, this type of network topology does require the most cabling and can get quite complex the larger you scale it.

Creating Your Network Topology

No matter which of the four different types of computer network topologies works best for your company’s network, you can buy VGA cables and other reliable wire bundles from CableWholesale’s inventory of network accessories. Our diverse cable selection makes setting up your network a breeze.

Over the years, your company has probably acquired an assortment of IT equipment to fulfill various technical demands. Overseeing successful network expansion isn’t always easy, especially when you have operational demands of your own to tend to. Neglecting your computer system can cause its organization to go awry after a while. But proper cable management is influential to workplace efficacy and safety. Not only does a tidy network let clients know you’re attentive to your space, but it is also a critical component to employee safety. On top of it all, cable management impacts productivity. CableWholesale explores how cable management can improve workplace productivity when you thoughtfully invest your time and money into it.

Make Troubleshooting Easier

If you’ve ever attempted to troubleshoot a network issue by randomly tugging on wires, chances are you didn’t fix the issue in a timely manner (nor understood how you fixed it, for that matter). No matter how urgent work is, a jumbled cable setup will always set you back.

Streamlined troubleshooting is just one way that cable management can improve workplace productivity. When each cord is properly labeled with details on the purpose and proper inlet/outlet connections, assessing and solving network issues becomes much more feasible.

Minimize Downtime

Because troubleshooting network issues becomes easier with well-organized cables, your workplace’s experience with downtime will decrease significantly. Minimizing company downtime is crucial to workplace productivity and profitability. Effective cable management is one of the simplest ways to ensure you optimize every hour at work.

Improve Employee Workflow

No matter what kind of work you’re trying to accomplish, a cluttered workspace can interfere with your productivity. The more chaotic the appearance of your company’s office is, the less productive your employees are likely to be.

Clutter is known to induce stress and anxiety, which can both hinder employee productivity and overall attitude toward their working environment. Prioritize your employees’ emotional well-being and safety by tidying your company’s cords.

Start Creating Your Cable Management System Today

At CableWholsale, we strive to make your cable management system more cohesive. To help you organize your selection of our Cat6 cables in bulk, we offer a range of cable management accessories. Our organizational supplies for tidier networks suit any size system. Whether you need to spruce up your at-home office or organize an entire floor, CableWholesale is your one-stop-shop for all things cable management. With a lifetime warranty on most products, you’re sure to get your money’s worth on your investment. Contact us today to learn more about how our resources can be of help to you.

Wired networks are revered for providing a streamlined connection to tech equipment at a greater speed than wireless networks. On top of enabling uninterrupted connection and contributing to workplace productivity, wired networks also offer security advantages that you just don’t get with wireless connections.

As your company receives more and more technological demands, you’ll need a greater selection of devices and wiring to set up a stable connection. If you’re looking to scale your business to an additional building, you will likely need to run your Ethernet cables outside to expand your company’s wired network. Of course, the outdoor elements will pose much greater risks to your cables. CableWholesale has created a guide on how to protect your outdoor Ethernet cables, so you can make the most out of your wired network investments. We’ll cover how to select an outdoor cable that’s right for your home or business needs, and whether to bury your cord directly in the ground or with a conduit. With the following tips, your outdoor Ethernet cables are sure to remain in quality conditions for a long time.

How To Choose the Right Outdoor Ethernet Cable

Which type of Ethernet cable you decide to run outside between buildings will determine which burial method and protection methods will work best for your cable. There are quite a few considerations for selecting an outdoor Ethernet cable that will perform properly. Ethernet cable category and cable jacket type are two factors you should mull over before digging up any ground and burying any cords.

Ethernet Cable Categories

Below are the main types of Ethernet cables that you’ll have to choose from.

Cat5e

Cat5e cables are the evolved version of their predecessor cables, Cat5 cords. Many homeowners and business owners utilize Cat5e cables to fulfill their connectivity needs, as Cat5e cables work up to 100 MHz.

For expansive connection services, businesses often invest in bulk Cat5e cables. Buying wholesale cables is a more cost-effective approach to setting up large wiring systems, whether they are inside or outside.

Cat6 and Cat6a

Cat6 outdoor Ethernet cables provide even greater connectivity speeds than Cat5 cords. Because Cat6 and Cat6a Ethernet cables are also more sufficient for long-distance networks, you may consider either one of them for expanding your company’s wired network.

Cable Jacket Type

Cable jackets help protect cords from external damage and chemical deterioration. Cable jackets protect the cords from heat and moisture and serve as a safeguard during and after installation. Because some cable jackets are intended for indoor home or office use, you must reflect on which is appropriate for your cable.

Will Plenum or Riser Jackets Suffice?

If you plan to directly bury your outdoor Ethernet cord, it is not recommended to bury one with a riser or plenum jacket. Riser and plenum jackets are designed with indoor use in mind, meaning they’re not likely to perform best in the ground.

Should your only option be to utilize an Ethernet cable with one of these two types of jackets, you’ll need to do some more prepping. We’ll revisit that later.

What Is a CMX Jacket?

CMX rated jackets are the best for outdoor installation. CMX jackets are very different than your standard plenum or riser jackets, being that they’re more durable. Here are a few elements that make CMX jackets the superior option to protect your outdoor Ethernet cables.

• Resistant to temperature shifts
• Resistant to cracking and maintain performance in very low temperatures.
• Block various types of moisture vapor.
• Curtail UV rays from degrading cable condition and performance.

Important Tidbits about CMX Rated Cables: Though CMX cables are the premier choice for outdoor installation, they do have some limitations to be wary of. We’ll note those below, so you can adhere to best cable management practices:

• National Electric Code section 800.113 states that CMX Ethernet cables must not run more than 50 feet indoors before termination in commercial structures. CMX Ethernet cables must not exceed 0.25-inch thickness for indoor or outdoor cable use for single-family and duplex structures.
• Under the circumstance that you have an underground rodent issue, it may be best to use a conduit for your outdoor Ethernet cable. That way, you will not need to bury the cord as deeply.

Direct Burial vs. Using a Conduit: Which is Better for Your Ethernet Cables?

Whether you should directly bury your cables into the ground or place them into a conduit such as a PVC pipe and then the ground will depend on the types of cables you buy. Direct burial-rated cables perform better for longer when buried deeply and without a conduit. Burying direct burial-rated cables with conduit has often led to Ethernet cable complications and failure.

When pursuing a direct burial approach, you’ll want to verify that your direct burial-rated cables are at least 18 inches below the ground. Installing your outdoor Ethernet cable in a slight “S” shape is beneficial as wiggle room for your cable to move with any of the ground’s movements rather than go against. Without a little extra length, your cable may become susceptible to buckling asphalt, shifting dirt, or even sinkholes—not ideal.

Instances Where Using a Conduit for Your Cables Will Help

Earlier we mentioned that there may be some scenarios that lead you to use a plenum or riser cable outdoors. While this isn’t an ideal circumstance, you can utilize a conduit to make your long-distance wire network happen. Though a conduit setup will still be more vulnerable to Earth’s elements, it’s still a valid initial option to establish the connection you need between buildings.

To use ordinary home cables as outdoor Ethernet cables, you’ll need some type of plastic piping with waterproof features. You or a technical professional will bury the conduit roughly six to eight inches below the ground’s surface, far enough away from powerlines so that there’s no electrical interference.

CableWholesale has several selections of bulk cables to choose from. Whether you plan on using a conduit, we have all the cords you’ll need. We supply both plenum and direct burial cords in bulk so you can afford a high-performing cabling system without breaking the bank. With a new and expansive wired network setup for your company, your workplace will be sure to achieve new levels of productivity, performance, and profitability.