Fiberoptic: meaning, definitions and examples
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fiberoptic
[ ˈfaɪbərˌɒptɪk ]
telecommunications technology
Fiberoptic refers to the technology that uses thin strands of glass or plastic fibers to transmit data as light signals. It is widely used in telecommunications, internet infrastructure, and medical imaging due to its ability to carry large amounts of data over long distances with minimal signal loss.
Synonyms
fiber-optic, optical fiber
Examples of usage
- The new fiberoptic cables improve internet speed.
- Doctors use fiberoptic endoscopes for minimally invasive procedures.
- Fiberoptic technology is crucial for modern communication systems.
- The installation of fiberoptic lines transformed the city’s connectivity.
Word origin
The term 'fiberoptic' has its roots in the combination of two words: 'fiber' and 'optics'. 'Fiber' derives from the Latin word 'fibra', meaning 'a thread' or 'a filament', while 'optics' comes from the Greek word 'optikos', pertaining to sight or vision. The development of fiberoptic technology began in the 19th century with the discovery of the principles of total internal reflection, which some scientists, like Daniel Colladon and Jacques Babinet, demonstrated with water pipes. However, it wasn't until the mid-20th century, with the advancement of materials science and the invention of the laser, that practical fiberoptic communication systems emerged. By the 1970s, researchers successfully created low-loss optical fibers, paving the way for extensive applications in telecommunications. Since then, fiberoptic technology has continually evolved, leading to faster internet connections and advanced medical devices, making it a vital component of modern infrastructure and healthcare.