Use of fiber optic lighting equipment and fiber optic products in general in your small business could be the way to go if you have specialized communication or lighting needs.

Fiber optics allow for transmission of signals over longer distances and at higher data rates than other communications. Fibers also offer less loss of data than metal wires because they are immune to interference by electromagnetic sources.

While the installation and deployment of optical fibers can be time consuming and costly, knowing several key points can make the decision process a whole lot easier. Before deciding whether to install fiber optic equipment for your business, consider the following:

1. Through-put: Fiber optic cables can achieve fantastic through-put speeds, up to 20 Gbps.
2. Distance: Fiber optic cabling can be used to extend data infrastructure a great distance, up to 40 km.
3. EMI Resistance: Since fiber optics deal with light, you do not have to worry about interference from other electrical appliances so it is suitable for use in factory environments and running through ceilings near electrical wires.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Determine where you need to install your fiber optic equipment

Fiber optic cables can be run almost anywhere with the appropriate considerations. Fiber optic cable is fragile and cannot be stepped on or pinched; therefore, it needs to be installed off floors and away from potential hazards.

I recommend: There are various fiber optic equipment dealers such as ComTec Company and Timbercon that can help with placement of your fiber optics.

Prepare the proper components ahead of the installation of your fiber optic equipment

Placement of fiber optic equipment is critical. It has to be able to connect to the fiber optic cable you install as well as to the equipment that needs to connect to the cable. This could be anything from computer networks to lighting equipment.

I recommend: There are many parts and components that must be coordinated. Look at CableWholesale.com and Fiber Optic Components.

Installation of fiber optic cables can be time consuming because it can break during installation

You should install fiber optics in some form of protective covering such as plastic duct tubes. Also, install your fiber optic equipment in a secure location out of normal foot traffic areas.

I recommend: For ideas and equipment, check out Condux International and Opticomm.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Fiber optic components are fragile so watch carefully during installation. Minimize the amount of tugging, twisting, pulling, and other manipulation of the actual cable.
• •  Make sure to use fiber optic test equipment after installation to ensure the fiber optic cabling is not broken and is able to pass signal.
• •  Make sure you have the appropriate fiber optic connectors on each end of the fiber optic cable. The fiber optic connectors should match the receiving equipment.