Active Optical Cables
Active Optical Cables (AOCs) are specialized cable assemblies that combine optical fiber technology with active electronic components to transmit data over longer distances with higher bandwidth and lower signal degradation. These cables are commonly used in various applications, including data centers, high-performance computing, telecommunications, consumer electronics, and audiovisual connectivity.
Key features and components of active optical cables include:
Optical Fiber Technology: AOCs use optical fibers to transmit data as pulses of light. Optical fibers are thin, flexible strands of glass or plastic that can carry large amounts of data over long distances with minimal signal loss.
Active Components: AOCs incorporate active electronic components, such as lasers, photodiodes, and control circuitry, directly into the cable connectors. These active components perform the conversion between electrical signals and optical signals, allowing for direct transmission of data over longer distances.
Signal Regeneration: The active components in AOCs help to regenerate the optical signals, reducing signal degradation and ensuring data integrity over the cable length.
Longer Reach: AOCs can transmit data over significantly longer distances compared to traditional passive optical cables or copper-based cables. The typical transmission distances of AOCs can range from tens to hundreds of meters, depending on the cable's specifications.
High Bandwidth: AOCs support high data transfer rates, making them ideal for high-definition audio and video transmission, high-speed data networking, and other applications that require substantial bandwidth.
Lightweight and Flexible: AOCs are generally thinner and lighter compared to traditional copper cables, making them easier to handle and route in tight spaces.
EMI/RFI Immunity: Optical signals transmitted through AOCs are immune to electromagnetic interference (EMI) and radio frequency interference (RFI), resulting in improved signal quality and stability.