Fast fibre broadband works by transmitting data as light pulses through thin strands of glass or plastic called fibre optic cables, enabling significantly faster and more reliable internet speeds compared to traditional copper-based connections.
Here's a breakdown of how it works:
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Fibre Optic Cables: The core of fibre broadband is the fibre optic cable. Unlike copper wires that transmit data as electrical signals, these cables transmit data as pulses of light. This difference is crucial for speed and bandwidth.
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Data Encoding: The data we send and receive online (emails, videos, web pages, etc.) is converted into digital signals (binary code of 0s and 1s). These digital signals are then used to modulate a light source, typically a laser or LED. The light is turned on and off rapidly to represent the 0s and 1s.
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Transmission: The modulated light travels through the fibre optic cable. Total internal reflection keeps the light confined within the fibre, allowing it to travel long distances with minimal signal loss.
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Reception: At the receiving end, a device called an optical receiver converts the light pulses back into electrical signals. This receiver detects the presence or absence of light and translates it back into the original digital data.
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Data Decoding: The electrical signals are then decoded back into the original data format, allowing you to access the information on your computer, tablet, or other device.
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The Role of the Exchange and Cabinet: In many fibre broadband setups, especially Fibre to the Cabinet (FTTC), the fibre optic cable runs from the telephone exchange to a street cabinet. From the cabinet to your home, the connection might still use copper wires. In Fibre to the Premises (FTTP), the fibre optic cable runs directly into your home, providing the fastest speeds.
Key Advantages of Fibre Broadband:
- Speed: Significantly faster download and upload speeds compared to copper-based connections.
- Reliability: Less susceptible to interference and signal degradation.
- Bandwidth: Can handle much larger amounts of data, supporting multiple users and devices simultaneously.
- Distance: Data can travel longer distances without significant signal loss.
In essence, fast fibre broadband leverages the speed of light and the capabilities of fibre optic cables to deliver a superior internet experience. By transmitting data as light, it overcomes the limitations of older copper-based technologies.
