If you are planning to install data cabling, you will have to decide whether to use copper cables or optical fiber cables. Each has its strengths and weaknesses so you need to think carefully about the options before you choose one over the other. This article discusses the advantages of optical fiber cables.

It Is Immune to Electromagnetic Interference

Copper data cables need to be installed by trained professionals in order to limit how much transmission of data signals, such as video call information, is affected by electrical fields in the surrounding. Electronic appliances like microwave ovens or TV sets can generate these electrical fields.

Optical fiber cables are immune to such interference due to their inability to conduct electricity so you will have fewer episodes of disrupted communication if your data cabling is done using this kind of cable.

It Has a High Bandwidth Capacity

Bandwidth can be described as the transmission capacity of a given wire or cable. Optical fiber cables have a very high bandwidth when compared to other kinds of data cables, such as copper wires. Optical fiber cables will therefore have the capacity to handle more data when compared to similar cables made from another material. For instance, if copper data cables can transmit 100 calls simultaneously, optical fiber cables can handle close to 200 calls at the same time, making them a better option for your data cabling needs.

Optical Fiber is Non-Flammable

Safety is always a big concern when one is setting up any cabling in a building. Optical fiber cables are very safe because they are dialectic (they do not conduct electricity). This reduces the risk of an electrical fire breaking out in case the cables are worn. Other cable types, such as copper cables, transmit electricity so there is a fire risk inherent in using them.

Better Security Against Eavesdroppers

Optical fiber cables are very hard to eavesdrop into using an antenna that reads the electrical pulses emitted during a conversation. This is because the cables do not conduct electricity so no electrical pulses can be detected from the vicinity of the cables during a data transmission. This is unlike copper cables that are dialectic so one can easily eavesdrop by placing an electrical antenna close to the cables so that electrical pulses are decoded.

It is advisable that you use optical fiber when having your data cabling done. Any drawbacks, such as the need for expensive electronics to use with these cables will be more than compensated for by the huge advantages that you will get when you have these cables. Learn more about your options by consulting resources like Foreman-Sheean Electrical & Communications.