Advantages and Disadvantages of Optical Fibres for Long Distance Communication

Advantages of Optical Fibres for Long Distance Communication:

High Data Transmission: Fibre optic cables can carry a high amount of data compared to traditional copper wires, which makes them ideal for transmitting large amounts of information quickly, such as high definition video or digital images.
Low Transmission Loss: They allow data to be transmitted over long distances with minimal loss. This is because they use the principle of total internal reflexion to keep light within the fibre, reducing the amount of signal degradation.
Immunity to Electromagnetic Interference: Unlike copper cables, optical fibres are not affected by electromagnetic interference. This makes them reliable in areas of high electrical activity such moving data between sections of a computer or across electrically ‘noisy’ environments.
Security: They do not radiate signals and are extremely difficult to tap into, making them more secure than other cable types.

Disadvantages of Optical Fibres for Long Distance Communication:

Cost: While the costs of fibre optic cables have decreased over the years, they are generally more expensive than traditional copper wires in terms of both material cost and installation cost.
Fragility: They are quite delicate and can be damaged if bent or twisted too much. This can make installation and maintenance a delicate process.
Difficulty of Splicing: If a fibre optic cable is cut or damaged, it is more difficult to splice together than a copper wire, requiring specialised knowledge and equipment to repair.
Equipment Compatibility: Some older equipment may not be compatible with fibre optic technology, and therefore may need to be replaced if an organisation switches over to fibre optic cables. This can add to the overall cost and time of installation.

Remember, that total internal reflexion is the phenomenon that makes optical fibres work. It is when the angle of incidence of light or other wave travelling through a medium, such as glass or water, exceeds the critical angle for that medium causing the wave to be entirely reflected back into the original medium.