I'm wanting to look into designing and implementing a fiber optic network. But I've never done anything with it before, I've never even seen any fiber network actually working either.
I've designed and implemented several small business ethernet networks, so I'm familiar with networking and the concepts, I just don't know where to begin learning about fiber.
I have been given a bag of tools that are for making ends on the cables, but I have no understanding of the details of what it takes to setup a network or what the spec ranges are and such.
- Do switches and routers exist for Fiber Optic network and do they serve the same functions?
- What are the basic categories of Fiber Optic network speed specifications?
- What system is suggested for streaming HD video for editing (my footage is 12-24mbps)?
Best Answer
Ethernet over fiber works the same as Ethernet over copper wire (for the most part), so the networking configuration will essentially be the same.
But you mention a bag of tools -- you should know that the tolerances for fiber connecters are way more strict than RJ45 connectors. Fiber ends need to be cut a certain way, cleaned, polished to remove microscopic flaws, etc. That is a skill that takes training and practice to do it right. And if you do it wrong, you will spend a lot of time troubleshooting.