Computer Networks · TEE · read
Optical fiber: advantages and limits
Unit 2 · Models and transmission media
TEE · Unit 2 · current syllabus 702AI0C023
Practice question. How is transmission media classified? List the advantages and disadvantages of optical fiber. [5 practice marks]
Answer
Transmission media are classified into guided media (twisted pair, coaxial cable, optical fiber) and unguided media (radio, microwave, infrared).
Optical fiber carries data as light in a core surrounded by cladding. It is a guided medium. Single-mode fiber supports one main propagation mode and is used for long/high-capacity links; multimode supports multiple modes and is often used over shorter distances.
| Advantages | Disadvantages / design costs |
|---|---|
| High data capacity and low attenuation over suitable links | Optical transceivers, connectors and splicing add cost/skill requirements |
| Immune to electromagnetic interference; no electrical crosstalk | Tight bends, dirty connectors and poor installation increase loss |
| Electrical isolation between buildings | Fiber is mechanically sensitive and requires appropriate protection |
| Harder to tap casually than an unprotected radio channel | It is not automatically confidential; encryption/access control remain necessary |
Yaad rakho: Fiber light carry karta hai; immunity means no EMI, not no security risk.