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The Future Of Fiber Optics

Decent Essays

James Gourley
PHS 208
Barrett Honors Contract
Additional Research Report
The Future of Fiber Optics
I. What is Fiber-Optics? Fiber-optic technology is often discussed in a wide range of conversations. This may be when people talk about TVs, phones, internet, or general technology. Fiber optics may also be referred to when talking about light and optics. An optical fiber is defined as a “flexible, transparent fiber made by drawing glass (silica) or plastic to a diameter slightly thicker than that of human hair” (Wikipedia). These fibers are used as a means of light transmission from one end of the fiber to the other end of the fiber and this is referred to as fiber-optic communications. These fibers are quite technologically advanced because they have the ability to transmit more data and at a quicker rate than normal cables made of wire. There is also much less lost data when using fiber-optic technology. Clearly, the benefits of fiber-optics are much greater than traditional wired cables. Fiber-optic cables are also used for the purpose of lighting and sensing. There are already many practical applications of the technology such as lasers, but these applications are just the beginning of the potential of this powerful technology.
II. How was Fiber-Optics Discovered? Fiber-optics as we know it today has been the result of a long chain of inventions that all began with John Tyndall’s 1854 discover that light can be conducted through water and bent. Later in 1895, a

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