Chapter 8 - Planning and Building the Optical Link

Abstract

This chapter provides an overview of structured fiber optic cabling systems as implicated in voice, video, and data communication applications. In particular, the chapter discusses private network applications, standards for fiber optic building wiring, and installation as well as handling issues. The importance of building a reliable and long-lasting communications infrastructure is largely becoming critical owing to rapidly advancing information system. It is observed that significant planning and foresight is required to build a stable communications platform. It is difficult to predict both today's and the future requirements for a building or campus infrastructure because of the tremendous rate of progress in information technology. Thus, planning is very essential to implement a practical solution meeting today's needs while providing a migration path to tomorrow's requirements. Employing a structured cabling system utilizing an optical fiber can solve the purpose. Optical fiber is the only medium with the bandwidth to meet the current and future needs. Fiber, in particular, is a very attractive medium because of its ability to support the widest range of applications at the fastest speeds and for the longest distance. Fiber offers other advantages that include electromagnetic interference and radio frequency interference immunity. In addition, it is extremely secure and is smaller as well as lighter in weight.