Optical fiber is used to transmit data as light signals over long distances. It's commonly used in:
- Telecommunications: Optical fibers are the backbone of phone and internet networks. They allow for faster data transmission with less signal loss compared to traditional copper wires.
- Internet and TV: Fiber-optic cables deliver high-speed internet and television services because they can carry large amounts of data at faster speeds.
- Medical Field: Optical fibers are used in medical instruments like endoscopes. These are thin tubes that doctors use to look inside the body without making large incisions.
- Networking: Optical fibers are also used in computer networks to connect devices at high speeds, often in data centers.
- Military and Aerospace: They are used for secure communication systems due to their resistance to interference and ability to cover long distances.
- Sensors: Optical fibers can also be used in sensors to monitor things like temperature, pressure, and strain, especially in harsh environments.
The key advantage of optical fibers is that they allow for faster, more reliable data transmission over greater distances than other methods, such as copper cables.