Fiber-Optic

Fiber-optic cables are hollow cables that send data by pulses of light. Fiber optics allows for a much faster data transmission because of the capability of transmitting data at the speed of light. Most home computer users will never get the opportunity to work with fiber-optic cables because almost all home networks use other cables or wireless connections to connect their computers together. Fiber-optic cables are most often used in corporate networks or world-wide networks such as Internet backbones because of the capabilities of the cable. In the picture to the right, is an example of fiber-optic cabling.
Caution: When handling and using fiber-optic cables or fiber-optic networking equipment, keep the below suggestions in mind.

1. Keep the fiber connections and connectors capped when not in use to help prevent dust, dirt, or other substances from being on the connection of connector.
2. Always keep the fiber connections and connectors clean.
3. Do not allow the fiber cabling to bend more than the diameter of your fist. Bending the cable further could cause physical damage to the cable.
4. Do not touch the tip of the actual fiber cabling, this could cut you.
5. Never look down the fiber cabling when in use as light pulses are being used. To determine if the pulse is being sent, use a meter.