The communication of information in the form of light pulses by optical fibre is called fibre optic communication. Light has a frequency of 400 THz to 790 THz. Which is higher than the microwave radio system.
The fibre is made of silica glass or silicon dioxide. Now it is succeeded with chalcogenide glasses, fluoro aluminate crystalline materials as they provide larger infrared wavelength and better transmission capability.
Fibre Optic communication is not electrically conductive.
Working principle of Optical Fibre
The Optical fibre used an optical principle called ‘Total Internal Reflection’.
Applications of Fibre Optic Communication
- International communication.
- Intercity communication
- Data links
- Traffic control
- Defence application.
The merit of Fiber Optic Communication
Very thin and lighter weight than copper cables. Has larger bandwidth, can be used to transfer a large capacity of information.
It is immune to electrical interference. It is cheaper than copper cables.
The demerit of Fiber Optic Communication
- Fragile than copper wire.
- Expensive technology
