How does a fiber optic cable differ from a coaxial cable?

The distinction is that fiber optic cable utilizes light to transmit data, which allows for greater bandwidth and faster data transmission over long distances compared to coaxial cable. In contrast, coaxial cable relies on electrical signals to transmit data. The nature of the transmission medium is key here; fiber optics rely on the principles of light and optics, while coaxial employs electrical conductivity through copper materials. The advantages of fiber optics—such as immunity to electromagnetic interference and lower signal degradation—are significant in many communication scenarios, making them increasingly preferred for high-speed internet and telecommunications. Understanding this fundamental difference in how these two types of cables operate is essential for anyone working in technical fields related to connectivity and telecommunications.