Discuss the advantages of optical fibre technology over conventional technologies used for communication. Throw light on their applications.

3. Discuss the advantages of optical fibre technology over conventional technologies used for communication. Throw light on their applications. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Easy

Reference: The Hindu

Why the question:

Optical fibres are made of thin cylindrical strands of glass. The diameter of a typical fibre is close to the diameter of a human hair.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about the advantages of optical fibre technology over conventional technologies used for communication.

Directive word:

Discuss – This is an all-encompassing directive – you must debate on paper by going through the details of the issues concerned by examining each one of them. You must give reasons for both for and against arguments.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction:

Begin by giving context about growth of optical communications.

Body:

Write about the advantages of optical fibre technology over conventional technologies on the basis of – data transmission, speed, bandwidth, attenuation losses, cost, infrastructure, compatibility etc.

Next, write about the applications of optical fibres.

Conclusion:

Conclude by summarising.