What Is a Fiber Switch?

Fiber optic computer cables may run from a PC to a fiber optic switch for signal distribution.

A fiber optic switch is an important device that is commonly used to optimize a fiber optic signal and to more effectively send information from one location to another.

Purpose

Direct fiber optic Internet is not used in a high percentage of homes, as of 2010. Fiber optic switches, therefore, are most commonly employed by businesses that are running large-scale data transmissions. Fiber optic switches allow for the data signal to be specifically guided to a secondary location, optimizing the speed and security of the transmission.

Function

Fiber optic switches look similar to a common computer router or hub. Cables are run from the computer to the fiber optic switch. Administrators have the ability to run direct lines of communication from computer to computer, as well as create security parameters and optimize bandwidth usage.

Additional Information

Fiber optic cables offer a higher bandwidth than their copper counterparts and therefore are common in telecommunication and video transmissions. Advanced management functions that are possible with fiber optic switches include bridging, static filtering, SNMP, port trunking, port mirroring and additional controls over the LAN port and console.

References

• Electronics Manufacturers: Fiber Optic Switch
• Versitron: Fiber Optic Network Switch

Resources

• Fiber-Optics.Info