Debunking the Top Fiber Optic Cable Myths

Debunking the Top Fiber Optic Cable Myths

Fiber optic cables can transmit data at incredible speeds. While there has been a big push to put these cables into more people’s homes, there has also been considerable confusion regarding what fiber optics are and what they can do. That’s why CableWholesale has created this guide on debunking the top fiber optic cable myths.

What Is Fiber Optic Cable?

A fiber optic cable is a type of network cable that consists of threads of glass fibers enclosed in an insulated jacket. The primary purpose of these cables is to deliver broadband internet and telecommunication data at incredibly high speeds across long distances.

Fiber optic cables transmit data by harnessing light pulses generated by tiny lasers or light-emitting diodes. Many fiber providers can offer speeds up to 1GB, but some can go even faster than that.

Myth: It’s More of a Luxury

Fiber optic cables aren’t as ubiquitous as conventional Ethernet connections like Cat5 and Cat6. As a result, even though the technology has been available for a long time, many people regard fiber optics as an expensive new luxury they can’t afford.

Truth: Fiber Optics Aren’t Out of Reach of Your Budget

While you may be able to find more affordable, albeit limited, internet options, you’ll lose out on the tremendously fast speeds and dependability that fiber optics offer. In fact, fiber optics are becoming increasingly affordable as production costs continue to drop. This drop is due to the significant increase in demand for the dramatic increase in performance that fiber optic connections offer.

Furthermore, while there have been plenty of advancements in the way we transmit signals, nothing compares to the potential of fiber optics at the moment. Since the cables use light waves to send data rather than electricity, they also help you save energy costs. That means that your investment will pay off big time in the long run.

Myth: The Cables Aren’t Very Durable

Fiber optic cables are composed of many different glass strands. Some may feel concerned that the cords could easily break because of this construction.

Truth: They’re Incredibly Resilient

The glass fibers within the cable get treated to make them exceptionally durable compared to most other kinds of wiring. In fact, they can survive prominent levels of stress placed on top of them along with extreme weather conditions. They can even survive far more drastic temperature changes than other internet cable connections.

Have no fear if you’re worried about how they hold up to environmental dangers. Even when a fiber is soaking wet, the optics will maintain the light where it’s needed to be. Furthermore, since they don’t use electricity, they have a significantly lower fire risk and can even get bent without getting damaged. As a result, if durability is a major consideration for you, the choice to upgrade to fiber-optic lines is an easy decision.

Myth: Fiber Optic Networks Have a Lower Reliability

Sometimes people mistakenly assume that fiber optics’ connection and performance are inferior to other technologies. Often, this results from unfamiliarity with the technology and how it works.

Truth: You’ll Receive Outstanding and Consistent Performance

You can trust that the internet signal from fiber-optic networks is dependable and consistent—especially over long distances. This is due to fiber-optic communications’ lower attenuation than copper connections. The minimal attenuation of fiber-optic connections means that your internet signal remains constant no matter how far it travels.

Fiber optic internet is also far less likely to go down when you experience power outages and won’t suffer from interference from nearby electrical equipment. The network is also much harder for hackers to infiltrate, offering you increased security. Finally, you’ll have significantly faster rates even with excessive usage compared to conventional types of cable. That means you’ll consistently enjoy exceptional performance when you use a fiber-optic network.

Myth: You Can Only Get Fiber Optics in a Handful of Places

Even a decade ago, it was challenging to find a fiber-optic network unless you resided in a densely populated urban center. Some individuals, however, believe that you must still live in a major metropolis to reap the benefits of fiber optic connections.

Truth: Fiber Optic Networks Are More Readily Accessible Than Ever

Fiber optic networks are expanding at an accelerating rate. Currently, it’s projected that more than 60 million residences have fiber optic connectivity, and this figure is rising. While many rural regions do not yet have access to these networks, often, these locations don’t have any internet connectivity other than satellite or dial-up.

However, internet service providers are aware of the problem and work hard to give these communities coverage. The government has set aside funds to aid with the growth, and once supply and consumer education issues get resolved, access will further increase.

Myth: The Cables Won’t Be Around for Long

Some people are concerned that the cabling will not last long. This worry stems from the glass fiber structure and lack of knowledge about the design and function of cables. Others feel that the cables are merely a recent phenomenon, a transitory fad that will fast become obsolete in the near future.

Truth: Fiber Optics Have Been Around a Long Time

Due to the recent push to introduce fiber optics in homes, many consumers feel this is a relatively recent technology. However, fiber was invented in the late 1970s, became widely used in the late 1980s, and is still in use today. While we don’t know the exact shelf-life of cables, we do know that they can last for decades.

The fact that cables have been around for so long shows how reliable fiber optics are built and used for decades. You can even find fiber optics in various applications, including computer networks, medical, entertainment, and military applications.

Myth: Maintenance Is Difficult

Although fiber-optic networks provide many benefits, they’re still a significant investment. It’s normal for people to worry that ongoing maintenance could be challenging after the cabling gets installed.

Truth: Ongoing Upkeep Is Relatively Easy

Wired networks employ craft user interfaces, while optical networks use graphical user interfaces. At its core, this means that you can readily find any issue you have with your optical networks without the need for human intervention. Essentially, your fiber internet upkeep is more straightforward than its copper counterparts.

Debunking the top fiber optic cable myths is important because there’s a lot of misinformation spread across various sources. The reality is that fiber networks give extraordinary and reliable speeds that copper Ethernet connections can’t match. CableWholesale is your one-stop shop when looking for the best optical cables to buy online for your home or business, along with many other essential network devices and accessories. Feel free to contact us with any questions about our products.

Debunking the Top Fiber Optic Cable Myths

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