Fiber optic modems allow computers or other devices to send and receive data in a fiber optic network. They convert electronic signals from a computer into optical signals, which can then be transmitted over optical fibers, and change them back to electronic form when they reach the target port. Optical fibers allow much higher speeds than the copper wires used in DSL and cable connections. A single optical fiber can transmit at terabyte speeds, or up to 100 times faster than a copper cable. However, fiber optic modems are much more expensive and most home users find DSL and cable speeds more usable.
Types Of Fiber Optic Modems
Kinds of Fiber Optic Modems include the following:
Serial port fiber optic modems
These fiber optic modems connect to the computer through the serial port or other connection port.
They usually contain a hardware chip that processes data signals independently from the computer's processor, allowing other applications to run while connected to the network.
PCI fiber optic modems plug into an expansion slot in the PCI rack inside the computer.
They are commonly used in desktop computers using a dedicated network connection.
Ethernet fiber optic modems
Ethernet fiber optic modems connect through an Ethernet network card in the computer's card bus.
They can split the connection to several computers using Ethernet hubs or switches.
Choosing Fiber Optic Modems (Buying Tips)
Security: Choose a fiber optic modem with a firewall function to block the reception of harmful data. If the modem comes with a software, make sure it has access to security updates from the manufacturer to detect new viruses.
Data processing: Choose a hardware-based fiber optic modem that performs all the processing functions on a separate chip. Software-based modems have limited compatibility and use up the computer's system resources, slowing down other applications during the connection.
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