What makes fiber preferable to copper cabling for interconnecting buildings? (Choose three.)
a) greater distances per cable run
b) lower installation cost
c) limited susceptibility to EMI/RFI
d) durable connections
e) greater bandwidth potential
f) easily terminated
Correct Answer : Option a, c and e.
Fiber optic cabling is often preferred over copper cabling for interconnecting buildings due to several key advantages. These advantages include greater distances per cable run, limited susceptibility to electromagnetic interference/radio-frequency interference (EMI/RFI), and greater bandwidth potential.
Let’s delve into each of these reasons in detail, as well as explain why the other options are not correct.
Greater Distances per Cable Run (Option a):
Fiber optic cables are known for their ability to transmit data over much greater distances compared to copper cables. This is due to the physics of light transmission. Fiber optic cables use light signals to transmit data, and this light can travel over long distances without significant signal degradation.
In contrast, copper cables suffer from signal loss over distance, which requires signal boosters or repeaters for longer connections. This property of fiber makes it ideal for interconnecting buildings that might be situated far apart, such as in a campus or metropolitan area network.
Limited Susceptibility to EMI/RFI (Option c):
Fiber optic cables are immune to electromagnetic interference (EMI) and radio-frequency interference (RFI) because they transmit data using light pulses rather than electrical signals. Copper cables, on the other hand, are vulnerable to EMI and RFI, which can degrade signal quality and lead to data transmission errors.
This makes fiber optic cabling a superior choice in environments where there are electromagnetic or radio-frequency sources, such as power lines, heavy machinery, or radio towers. It ensures reliable data transmission even in such challenging conditions.
Greater Bandwidth Potential (Option e):
Fiber optic cables have a much higher bandwidth potential compared to copper cables. The term “bandwidth” refers to the capacity to carry data at high speeds. Fiber optic cables can support significantly higher data rates over longer distances than copper cables.
This is essential for modern networking needs, especially in scenarios where multiple buildings need to share large volumes of data, such as in a corporate campus or data center interconnection.
Fiber optic cables can handle the demands of high-definition video streaming, cloud computing, and other bandwidth-intensive applications with ease.
Now, let’s address why the other options are not correct:
Lower Installation Cost (Option b):
Contrary to the assertion made in option b, fiber optic cabling typically has a higher initial installation cost compared to copper cabling. The cost of the fiber optic cable itself is usually higher, and the installation process can be more labor-intensive.
Fiber optic cables require specialized connectors and termination equipment, which can add to the overall cost. However, it’s important to note that fiber optic cabling can provide cost savings over the long term due to its durability and lower maintenance requirements.
Copper cabling may require more frequent upgrades and repairs, which can increase the total cost of ownership.
Durable Connections (Option d):
Option d suggests that fiber optic connections are more durable than copper connections. While it’s true that fiber optic cables are less susceptible to physical damage and environmental factors like moisture, it’s not necessarily accurate to claim that fiber connections are inherently more durable.
Both copper and fiber connections can be made durable with proper installation and maintenance practices. The primary advantage of fiber in terms of durability is its resistance to corrosion and environmental factors, but copper connections can also be protected against these issues with appropriate measures.
Easily Terminated (Option f):
Option f implies that fiber optic cables are easily terminated, but in reality, terminating fiber optic cables requires specialized tools and expertise. Termination involves carefully cleaving and polishing the fiber ends and then connecting them to connectors or splicing them together.
This process demands precision and specialized equipment, making it more complex than terminating copper cables, which often use relatively straightforward connectors like RJ-45 plugs.
Therefore, fiber optic termination may not be considered “easy” for those who lack experience and training in fiber optic technology.
In summary, fiber optic cabling offers several advantages over copper cabling for interconnecting buildings, including greater distances per cable run, limited susceptibility to EMI/RFI, and greater bandwidth potential.
While it’s essential to consider the initial installation cost and ease of termination, these factors are outweighed by the long-term benefits of fiber optic cabling in many scenarios, particularly for connecting buildings over extended distances or in environments with electromagnetic interference concerns.
MBA,BBA.
I am Smirti Bam, an enthusiastic edu blogger with a passion for sharing insights into the dynamic world of business and management through this website.
I hold a MBA degree from Presidential Business School, Kathmandu, and a BBA degree with a specialization in Finance from Apex College,