7 reasons to choose fiber optics over copper cable

1. Speed
The fiber optic cables Fiber optic cables outperform copper in this area, and not even close. Fiber optic cables are made of tiny strands of glass, each about the size of a human hair, and use pulses of light. Therefore, they can carry vast amounts of data—up to 60 terabits per second—at speeds only slightly slower than the speed of light. Copper cables, limited by the speed at which electrons travel, can only reach about 10 gigabits per second.
If you need to transmit data (and a lot of it) in a short time, fiber optic cables are superior.

2. Reach
The fiber optic cables They are the best option if you need to send a signal over long distances. Copper cables can only carry signals for about 100 meters, while some single-mode fiber optic cables can carry more data up to 25 miles. Fiber optic cable also carries data with less attenuation or signal loss (only about three percent per 100 meters) than copper cable, which loses more than 90 percent over the same distance.

3. Reliability
Because they are electrical conductors, copper cables are still susceptible to interference and power surges. Fiber optic cable uses a process known as total internal reflection to carry light signals instead of electricity, so it is unaffected by electromagnetic interference (EMI) that can disrupt data transmission. Fiber optic cable is also immune to temperature changes, inclement weather, and humidity, all of which can impair copper cable connectivity. Furthermore, fiber optic cable does not present a fire hazard like older or worn-out copper cables.

4. Durability
Capable of withstanding a tensile force of only about 25 pounds, copper cable is fragile compared to fiber optic cables. Fiber, despite being much lighter, can withstand up to 200 pounds of pressure, which is certainly preferable when building a local area network (LAN).
Copper cables also corrode and will eventually need to be replaced after as little as five years. Their performance degrades as they age, to the point where they lose signal completely. Fiber optic cables, on the other hand, are more durable with fewer parts and can last up to 50 years. When choosing a cable, its longevity should be taken into account.

5. Security
Your data is much more secure with fiber optic cables, which don't carry electrical signals and are virtually impossible to access. Even if a cable is compromised or damaged, it can be easily detected by monitoring power transmission. Copper cables, on the other hand, can still be tapped, which could affect internet speed or even destroy the network.

6. Cost
It's true that copper may seem like the most cost-effective option because it costs significantly less than fiber optic cable. However, after considering hidden costs, maintenance, interference, tamper risk, and replacement costs, fiber optic cable is a better financial choice in the long run.

7. New technology
Network devices that require more bandwidth, higher speeds, and more reliable internet connectivity, such as security cameras, digital signage, and VoIP phone systems, make fiber optic cable the obvious choice for those providing telecommunications and internet services.

Thanks to the fiber optic cable capable of transmitting multiple modes of light, fiber is even reaching residential areas in some cities.