Q. What is Fiber Optic Internet?

A. It is the fastest, most reliable and secure form of broadband technology surpassing DSL and cable. It can provide an internet connection of up to 10 GB per second for both upload and download which is more than 100 times faster access than non-fiber optic broadband. At these speeds you can download a 2-hour HD movie in 25 seconds, a 45-minute HDTV show in 5 seconds, a 9-hour audiobook in 0.9 seconds, 5-minute video in 0.2 seconds and a 4-minute song in 0.03 seconds.

Q. How does fiber optic cable transmit data?

A. Data is transmitted as light pulses along a glass strand (the strand's width is no larger than a human hair) so it is literally traveling at the speed of light. It also allows data to travel much greater distances while maintaining its speed. Fiber Connect's glass fiber is from U.S. producer, Corning Glass.

Q. How long will fiber optic cable last?

A. There is no physical or chemical reason why fiber optic cable that is properly designed, manufactured and installed will not last indefinitely. Fiber optic cable has been in commercial use for over 30 years and what was installed then is commonly still in use.

Q. Can WiFi be used with a fiber optic connection?

A. Yes. You can combine wireless with fiber optic but the wireless connection speed will be slower than that of a direct connection. Fiber Connect suggests installing radio nodes in rooms furthest from the ONT (modem) to boost the WiFi signal. These nodes are not supplied by Fiber Connect but are readily available and easy to install yourself. Fiber Connect is happy to install WiFi devices at our normal help desk hourly rate. Fiber Connect also has WiFi mesh packages at competitive installed pricing.

Q. Why is fiber optic better than cable?

A. Fiber optic internet sends data significantly faster than basic cable. Data is delivered on a dedicated line facilitating more consistent speed than cable. Fiber optic internet is less likely to go down during a power outage since no electricity is involved. Cable's copper wires use electrical currents to transmit data so they can be affected by corrosion, short circuit, electrical faults and lightning strikes.

Q. How do you connect to a fiber optic network?

A. Installation technicians will run fiber optic cable from the street/road direct to the premise either aerially or by underground conduit.