Fibre optics for short-haul communications links

DP managers are often unsure of fibre-optic systems for their short-haul communications links. They may worry about installation, the expense, maintenance or the capabilities of such systems. The paper discusses the advantages of fibres over coaxial or twisted-pair copper-based systems. Optical systems are said to be both cheaper to install and easier to maintain. Because of their immunity to electromagnetic induction, they are inherently more secure. A comparison of a typical 500 m fibre-optic link and its twisted-pair equivalent is presented.