Problem 12 Give the merits and demerits of ... [FREE SOLUTION] (2024)

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Optical fibres stand out in modern communication systems for their high bandwidth capabilities. High bandwidth refers to the capacity of the fibre to transmit large volumes of data swiftly. This feature allows for efficient handling of high-speed internet, streaming services, and large file transfers without lag.

Optical fibres achieve high bandwidth by using light to carry data. Since light waves have incredibly high frequencies, they can carry more information than traditional electrical signals used in copper wires. This makes optical fibres an ideal choice for applications where rapid and reliable data transmission is crucial.

Additionally, in comparison to traditional copper cables, which can become a bottleneck for data transmission at high volumes, optical fibres maintain their performance even when the data loads are extremely high.

One of the most significant merits of optical fibres is their low attenuation. Attenuation refers to the loss of signal strength as it travels through a medium. In the context of data transmission, low attenuation means that the signal can travel longer distances without significant degradation.

Optical fibres exhibit low attenuation because they rely on light, which experiences minimal resistance as it moves through the fibre. In comparison, electrical signals in copper wires suffer more from attenuation, especially over longer distances.

The low attenuation characteristic of optical fibres ensures that data can be transmitted over long distances, making them ideal for cross-country or even transcontinental communications. This feature is particularly valuable for telecommunications and internet service providers who need to maintain the integrity of the signal over vast distances.

Optical fibres offer immunity to electromagnetic interference (EMI). EMI occurs when external electromagnetic fields disrupt the transmission of signals. Such interference can degrade the quality and reliability of data transmission in traditional copper cables.

Since optical fibres use light to transmit data, they are immune to this kind of interference. This immunity ensures that the signal remains clear and undistorted, even in environments with a high presence of electromagnetic activities, such as industrial settings or areas with many electronic devices.

This attribute makes optical fibres highly reliable and secure for data transmission, as they maintain their performance quality irrespective of external electromagnetic conditions. Moreover, it reduces the need for additional shielding or protective measures against EMI, which is often required for copper cables.

Despite their advantages, optical fibres present certain challenges in terms of installation and maintenance. The process of laying optical fibres and connecting them requires specialized skills and equipment. This means that workers need to be extensively trained, which can initially drive up labor costs.

Additionally, the precision required to splice and connect optical fibres makes the installation process more time-consuming and complex compared to installing traditional copper cables. Special equipment like fusion splicers and optical time-domain reflectometers (OTDR) are necessary to ensure accurate and efficient installation.

Maintenance is another challenge, as any damages to optical fibres need to be meticulously identified and repaired. This can involve lengthy and costly processes. It is crucial to have a specialized repair team on hand to handle any issues that may arise.

One of the key drawbacks of optical fibres is their fragility. Unlike robust metal wires, optical fibres are more delicate due to their glass or plastic composition. They can break or get damaged easily if not handled with care.

This fragility poses risks during the installation process, as any bends or mechanical stress can cause them to crack. Therefore, handling and installing optical fibres require careful attention to avoid breakage.

Moreover, in day-to-day operations, optical fibres need protection from physical damage. They are often encased in protective coatings and housed within robust conduits to safeguard against environmental hazards. Despite these precautions, their delicate nature means that regular inspections and protective measures are necessary to maintain their integrity over time.