Today's changing enviroments demand nework cabling solutions which are adaptable and "future-proof". Belden fibre optic cables not only offer you a hedge against your future system needs, but the inherent advantages of fibre optic technology as well: immunity from electromagnetic interference, high bandwidth performance, space efficiency and security. All fibers feature a dual-window construction, which allows for future system upgrade. It's no wonder Belden fiber optics have become the natural choice for closed circuit television, government network security, factory automation and major commercial networks. In applications such as video conferencing, medical imaging and CAD/CAM, Belden fiber optics feature unparalleled performance.

Fiber optic bandwidth is essential for bringing light-speed communication to hospitals, corporate campuses and universities, helping them to operate more effectively and reliably while allowing for future system growth.

The popular FDDI standard permits data rate transmission at 100 million bits per second (MB/s.) over a pair of optical fibers which are configured in a ring topology similar to that of current token ring networks. Fibers such as the 62.5/125 fiber with low attenuationand rated at 500 MHz-km bandwidth at1300nm, easily meet the FDDI requirements. Other fibers with the same or superior performance can also be employed.

No medium can challenge fiber optics in bandwidth, distance and noise immunity. Connectivity is becoming easier and more cost effective every day. unlike the installed base of UTP (unsheilded twisted pair) cable. mostusers who installe fiber 5 years ago have yet to exceed their bandwidth requrement. Arecommendation for future proofing for the next 5 years is to install at least 4 singlemode fibers with any multimode cable pull. This will allow your network to answer the bandwidth challenge of any future technologies on the horizon.

The benifits of any fiber system, in addition to its high throughput speed, are immunity to lightning, no cross-talk or static noise, no ground loops, and secure transmission for long distances usually up to 3km (9,842 ft.) between stations without a repeater.

Fiber optic communication offers several advantages over metallic systems.

The transmitted signals are not distorted by any form of outside electronic, magnetic or radio frequency interference. Therefore optical cables are completely immune to lightning or high voltage interference.

Furthermore, optical fibers will wmit no radiation, which ideally suits them for today's tougher standards in computer applications. Because optical signals do not requiregrounding connections, the transmitter an receiver are electricallyisolated and free from ground loop problems.

With no chance of terminal-to-terminal ground potential shifts, plus safety from sparking and shock, fiber optics is increasingly the choice for many processing applications. where safe operationin hazardous or flammable enviroments isa requirement.

Digital computing telephone, and video broadcast systems require new avenuesfor improved transmission. The high signal bandwidth of optic fibers means increased channel capacity. Also, longer cable runs require fewer repeaters, because fiber optic cableshave extremely low attenuation rates. This ideally suitsthem for broadcast and telecommunications use.

Compared to conventional coaxial cables with the same signal carrying ability, the smaller diameter and lighter weight of fiber optic cables means relatively easier installation, especially in crowded duct areas. A single conductor fiber optic cable weighs about 6 lbs. per 1,000 ft. A comparable coaxial cable weighs 80 lbs. per 1,000 ft. (about 13 times more)

Electronic "bugging" depends on electromagnetic monitoring. Fiber optic systems are immune to this technique. They have to be physically tapped to extract data, which decreases signal levels and increases error rates - both of which are readily detected. Table 1 summerizes tha many features offiber optic systems.