Much of the Internet traffic in Australia is transmitted via the local telephone network infrastructure. Due to this, access to the Internet for several users (mostly residential users) usually relies upon the same copper cabling lines that carry voice signals. Signal interference, however, is the major problem experienced when transferring both voice and data signals using copper media. Usually, data signals are transmitted as electrical pulses, which can cause electromagnetic interference and corrupt or degrade data transmission efficiency, overall. 

If you live in an old home, chances are high that you are receiving the worst quality of data transmission due to the outdated copper network infrastructure in Australia. To overcome this problem, you should consider upgrading to fibre optic cabling. But first, you will need to get acquainted with the many great benefits you can realise by making the switch. 

Here is a look at some top reasons as to why increasing numbers of old homeowners in Australia are giving up their copper cabling for fibre optics in order to meet their voice and data network needs. 

No corrosion

Corrosion is one of the worst enemies of copper wiring. When the copper is exposed to wet environments, it can easily form rust, which can gradually but surely undermine the transmission of voice and data signals, over time. Fibre optic cables resists most corrosive elements that cause copper to become rusty, so corrosion is not a cause for concern. This means fibre optics can last for longer without requiring costly replacements.

Immunity to electromagnetic interference

Unlike copper cables, fibre optics do not generate electrical pulses. Instead, the transmitter produces a light signal that travels to a receiver via the fibre cable. As they do not generate any electricity when being used, fibre optics are not susceptible to electromagnetic interference. This makes the use of fibre optics ideal in environments that are electrically noisy. 

Discourages theft

A major concern with the use of copper cabling is that it is a target for thieves because of its significant economic value.  While telephone companies and data installers have been pushing lawmakers to pass legislation that imposes harsh punishment on those who are caught stealing the copper, there is no guarantee that the vice will stop completely.

As fibre optics material generally has less reuse potential compared to copper cables, thieves tend not to target them. This reduces the risk of downtime that may arise from stolen cabling. 

While the cost of installing fibre optic cabling is still high for most homeowners, as the demand grows, prices should become more manageable.

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