5 Fiber Optic Cable Myths Debunked

Fiber optic cables are an essential component for fast, reliable connections. The market is growing and the demand is higher than ever. In fact, the fiber optics market is projected to reach $5 Billion by 2021, at a compound annual growth rate of 9.8% from 2016 to 2021.

However, we’ve found that many businesses are hesitant to choose fiber optic cables due to untrue myths.

Don’t be swayed by misconception! Get to know the facts behind these common fiber optic cable myths.

Myth: Fiber Optic Cables Are Too Expensive

Fiber optic cables are the norm now. When they were first introduced, they may have been more expensive than the rest but over time they’ve swelled and shifted to be more in line with most businesses budgets.

Fiber optic cables’ price also includes incredible benefits that cut costs in the long run. By using light instead of electricity, fiber optic cables cost less to run and are easy to test and maintain.

If you’re changing the cabling in a building, fiber optic cables become wildly affordable compared to copper. Fiber networks require less equipment and less power, meaning less stress for you and more money in your pocket.

Myth: Fiber Optic Cables Aren’t Durable

Fiber optic cable myths are usually borne from small truths. One of which is, yes, fiber optic cables contain glass. However, this does not mean they’re as fragile as glass.

The glass strands in fiber optic cables are thinner than a strand of hair. Put that together with hundreds and you get a cable that is not only more durable than their copper cable counterparts but is also able to withstand weather conditions.

Myth: Fiber Optic Cables Are Dangerous

Not true! If anything, they’re safer than their copper counterparts due to their minimal risk of fire. By using light to transmit data, electricity becomes nil, also eliminating any interference with nearby equipment.

Myth: Fiber Optic Cables Installations Are Challenging

This was true in the 90s, but technology has grown by leaps and bounds since then. We are lucky enough to have the latest technology to work with and, as a result, the way we install cables has changed dramatically.

Today, fiber optic cables are relatively simple to install and test by a professional.

Myth: Fiber Optic Cables Can’t Be Bent

While fiber optic cables are sensitive, that doesn’t mean that they cannot be bent.

Recent technology and manufacturing have made it so these cables are more flexible than ever. Insensitive fibers were introduced into the cabling world in 2007, following shortly by multimode fibers. These material updates improved the cable’s durability and introduced the opportunity to bend.

This proved useful in hard-to-reach places where performance was no longer hindered by a bend here and there!

Finding Fact Among Fiction

If you’ve fallen victim to these myths, there’s always time to rectify your mistakes. CableLAN Products serves the Massachusetts area to connect businesses, colleges, universities, and offices with the fastest, most reliable connections available.

Leave it to the cabling experts! A brief phone call to our cable experts will get you prompt answers to your questions about premises and campus wiring products. Contact us today!