Light Through a Glass Tunnel

An Introduction to Fiber Optic Communication

By Erin Quealy and Brian Patterson

Loops of hair-thin fiber, illuminated by laser light, provide the transmission medium for optical communication systems.
(Photo courtesy of Lucent Technologies)

How it works - How light refraction works to send data and the materials used to construct each.

Recent Advances - Some of the more recent advances in the materials and techniques used.

Ways of Connecting - A few methods of connecting a fiber optic network together.

Role in the Real World - Where fiber optic communication has been used (especially at Carleton).

Benefits and Problems - Benefits of fiber optic over copper cabling as well as some problems.

Timeline - A timeline of important events and people in the history of fiber optic communication.

Links and References - Books about and links to sites with information on fiber optic communication.

Last Modified: 3/15/00
By Brian Patterson and Erin Quealy