Fiber Optics and 10 Gigabit Technology

Wired vs. Wireless, Power over Ethernet (PoE), PoE Plus, what’s next? Funny you should ask. As we continue our conversations on connectivity, it only makes sense that the next topic we explore is fiber.

You’ll notice we skipped the “copper” discussion. There was a point in time that copper was commonly used. The drawbacks to copper wiring were the distance limitations and the interference. Consumers wanted a clean, clear signal and found the solution in fiber.

Just for fun, I asked a few people, “What comes to mind when you think of fiber/ fiber optics?” For one person, it was the way fiber optics are used to create the magic at Disney from the glistening lights in the cement to the amazing shows. For another it was the little toy wands that you can get at a circus-like event that has strands of multi colored fiber optic lights. For me, I have the image of the fiber optic snowman that Hallmark has sold over the Holidays that can change colors and add a festive glow to the room.

In actuality, have you ever stopped to think about how fiber optics impacts your day to day activities? Imagine the hundreds of thousands of miles of fiber beneath the ground you are standing on. We use fiber to connect our buildings and communities. It is a framework in our society, weaving together campuses, businesses, and residential areas so all people can share and access the technology.

You may have heard the terms “single mode” and “multi mode” fiber.

Single Mode (more expensive) is typically used for “long haul” scenarios. This is considered the better choice for high precision needs. Electronics needed to support this fiber cost more, however the bandwidth quality is exceptional.

Multi Mode (less expensive) is typically used for communication over shorter distances, often over a campus or within a building. Electronics needed to support this fiber will cost less.
Technology will change. Business will evolve. People will adapt new methods to streamline processes. Files will continue to get larger, the cost of data storage will continue to decrease and we will rely on new technology to stay in the game.

The current “hot topic” now is 10 Gigabit. It warrants your attention. As the need for bandwidth to support video, voice and data networks increases, 10 Gigabit Fiber will provide the pipe large enough to accommodate these growing bandwidth needs. Be on the lookout for more to come on 10 Gigabit information and how it will impact your day to day activities and the very ground you are standing on today.

This was Amy Hershman’s last conversation with Bill Taylor and Dean Reskevich