Premises Networks

Premises networks, mostly computer LANs (local area networks) use fiber optics primarily in the backbone but increasingly to the desk and to connect wireless access points. The LAN backbone often needs longer distances than copper cable (Cat 5/5e/6/6A) can provide and of course, the fiber offers higher bandwidth for future expansion. Fiber's ability to handle network upgrades meant that one fiber type outlived nine generations of copper cables in LANs. A new fiber type (OM3) offers future potential for upgrades while copper continues to struggle with network speed increases.

Until recently large corporate LANs use fiber backbones with copper wire to the desktop. LAN switches and hubs are usually available with fiber optic ports but PCs have interfaces to Ethernet on copper. Inexpensive media converters allow connecting PCs to fiber. Fiber to the desk can be cost effective if properly designed using centralized fiber architecture without local switching in the telecom closet, but many users no longer want to be "tethered" to a network cable. Desktop computer sales are declining and laptops are the PC of choice for most users, with wireless connections to the network. Generally only high data users like engineers and graphics designers use desktop workstations; everybody else gets a wireless-connected laptop.

More on premises networks and fiber in premises networks.

December 3, 2011

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