It is a very noble material that allows information to be transmitted through pulses of light. The capacity, speed and efficiency of fiber optics make it a key technology for various fields, such as communication, transportation and the environment. In this article, we tell you some curiosities about fiber optics that you may not have known.
Developments
It is an area of technology and communication that never ceases to amaze us with its advances. Recently, a team of researchers from Denmark and Sweden achieved a world record by transmitting 1.8 petabytes per second using a single light source and consuming less energy. This is equivalent to sending about 900 million books in one second. In addition, this achievement can contribute to reducing the CO2 emissions produced by the Internet, which are estimated to account for 3.7% of the world's total.
Fiber optics and its use in automobiles
It is a material whose use is increasing on a daily basis. Fiber optics can also be found in cars on the road. Modern cars are equipped with driver assistance systems that require a large amount of data and information to travel instantaneously. For example, proximity sensors, automatic braking systems, lane change assistants or navigation systems. For these systems to function properly, fast and reliable communication between the sensors and the internal processors is required. Fiber optics offers this advantage, as it can transmit data at a speed of up to 300,000 kilometers per second. Thus, fiber optics help to improve the safety and comfort of drivers and passengers.
When we mention fiber optics, it is important to note that it is an environmentally friendly and green technology. By using pulses of light instead of electrical currents, fiber optics significantly reduces energy consumption compared to copper-based networks. According to one study, fiber optics can save up to 88% of energy compared to coaxial cable. In addition, optical fiber is a durable and resistant material that does not degrade easily, so it needs less replacement and maintenance. This also means less waste generation and greater protection of natural resources.
As you can see, fiber optics is a technology with multiple benefits and applications. Its transmission capacity, speed, efficiency and sustainability make it an indispensable tool for the development of society. Fiber optics is, without a doubt, the future of communication, transportation and the environment.
