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Module Four - Preface

Fibre optic technology, very simply put, sends large quantities of data very quickly over great distances by bouncing light signals through very very thin glass tubes. (See picture at left.) This technology is highly desireable, because it allows very fast speed and great quantities of data transmission. But does it make sense to install fibre optic technology in rural and remote communities? The answer is: it depends.


Although more information can be moved more quickly through fibre optics than through coaxial cable or any of the other technologies discussed so far, it is also far more costly to install, fix, and maintain fibre optic systems. However, if this technology is installed properly, and protected properly, there is no reason why it shouldn't run very very well for a very long time.

Fibre optic cable is also an excellent networking medium for places with a very harsh climate, as it is not nearly as susceptible to attenuation caused by severe weather and temperature changes, as coaxial cable, and other copper-based media. This characteristic alone makes it an excellent choice for bringing a "big pipe" into a rural community.

   

For more information on the history and a chronology of fibre optics, see the following two links: