Applications

by Fiber Optics Technician's manual, Jim Hayes

The main application of fiber optic technology is in the communications industry. The inherent benefits of optics in the communication sector are the increased bandwidth, which allows an enormous amount of data to be transmitted on a very small fiber. The other great advantage is the ability of a signal to be transmitted long distances without significant signal loss.

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Other applications of this technology are in the medical industry. The ability to illuminate positions where medical procedures are taking place within a patient are advantageous. The ability to do this with minimal intrusiveness into a patient is safer and affords a more comprehensive process with more comfort to the patient.

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There are other areas where optic technology is advantageous. Industrial facilities, controls and sensors, and laser transmission are all enhanced by this technology. Areas which are hazardous to electrical controls can maximize the intrinsic safety of optics, which typically harbor no risk of electrical ignition in a hazardous location.

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A less technical use of optics is the general transmission of light and images where typical light processes are impractical.