The advantages and disadvantages of a fiber optic switch
Fiber optic switch is part of a communication system, typically used to couple a particular transmitter to one or more receivers.
It enables an optical signal to propagate from one fiber to another, through the optical interface junction. This particular type of communication system is used in various processes and mechanisms, especially in television, networking and phone systems. Through optic fibers, the switch sends light pulses for transferring video, computer and other data, within one single network or between more networks.
Generally, a fiber optic switch is preferred rather than the old copper system, because optical fibers provide higher bandwidth than copper cables, thus data can be transferred faster. It can connect a selected transmitter with one or more receivers, as well as route data between circuits. However, just like anything else, there are great advantages, but also certain disadvantages.
Advantages
- -Because a fiber optic switch offers higher bandwidth, the delivery of network signals is much more efficient. The fiber optic cable sends signals one at a time instead of all at once, and it also allows for signals to be flagged by importance: marked signals will be delivered sooner. As the delivery system is more organized, the network is not so crowded by signal overload.
- -Due to the increased bandwidth, a fiber optic switch is much faster than a copper switch; moreover, one can get additional bandwidth for use on the network, as the fiber optic switch can amplify the signal.
- -The signal transmitted through optic fibers is stronger, and the signal range is much larger, almost twice as long as that of copper switches. Also, a fiber optic switch is immune to EMI/RFI disturbance (from microwaves, radios, alarm systems or other radio frequency devices), and can perform properly even during lightning strikes and storms.
- -Another great advantage is that a fiber optic switch operates on the same hardware level as Ethernet, therefore they can communicate between different types of Ethernet connections or other network types.
- -A fiber optic switch does not have a limited use, just for computer and networking purposes. In fact, it is commonly used with phone systems, television or other mechanical purposes where signals need to be routed from one place to another.
Disadvantages
- -Compared to the old copper version, the cost of a fiber optic switch is significantly higher; it is a centralized access device providing a focal point for data communication, not only for local area networks, but between various LANs.
- -A fiber optic switch must be installed in well ventilated areas, where the temperature is under 45 degrees C.
- -The maximum length of the cable between the switch and the connected device is 100m. For shorter cables, an optical attenuator ensures the receiving end doesn't get overloaded with data.
- -A fiber optic switch is great for data transmission, however it doesn't excel in limited broadcasts. For low bandwidth with limited data, and electrical transmission might be a more viable option.
- -If you don't clean the chassis of the fiber optic switch periodically, the system will experience malfunctions in time.
Take into account all aspects and consider all your options. Think of the general use of a fiber optic switch, its properties, as well as what you need it for. It's no use buying something if you don't really need it, even if it is more advanced.