Lasers And Light Sources

There are a multitude of sources of light that can be employed in a fiber optic system. Two of the most common types of sources used are Led's and laser diodes (Ld). Both of these devices generate light which is in turn introduced into the fiber optic conduit. At the termination point the light source is then converted back to an electrical signal using photosensitive devices such as photodiodes.

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a typical fiber optic receiver wiring diagram

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a typical laser diode

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a typical light Emmitting Diode

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There are many advantages to using fiber optic systems, rather than conventional electrical signalling and transmission processes.

• There is an amazing advantage in the capacity to move information. Optics have the ability to move information in the magnitude of trillions of bits per second for some of the most advanced systems.
• Optic cable can support higher data rates for longer distances than typical coaxial cable systems.
• Optic systems are virtually immune to all kinds of interference including lightning and is not an electrical conductor.
• Optical fibers are resistant to corrosion and is relatively unaffected by many chemicals. It can be buried or exposed to most areas that are considered corrosive.
• There are no hazards associated with optics since the major operating model is light transmission
• It is ideal for secure communications since it is difficult to breach and at the same time easy to monitor status of operation
• It is economical to operate since it is much smaller than other conventional cable assemblies and is easier to maintain.