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Updated in [September 26th, 2023]

What does this course tell?
(Please note that the following overview content is from the original platform)
Optical fiber (also called ‘fiber-optics’) are microscopic strands of very pure glass, each about the same diameter of a human hair. Thousands of these optical fibers are arranged in bundles in optical cables and are used to transmit light signals over long distances with a capacity that is far superior to wires or coaxial cables. Travelling along the fibers at around two hundred trillion cycles per second, each photon bounces down the pipe with continued internal mirror-like reflection protected by the cladding that keeps the light signals inside the core. Inexpensive to produce, fiber-optic cables do not conduct electricity, are not degraded by lightning storms and are small in size. This introductory course on fiber-optics will expand your knowledge of this unique technology, breaking down how it works and all the relevant varieties.
To start with, you will learn about single and multimode fiber, two types of optical fibers. Single-mode is used for long distances, has small cores and transmits infrared laser light while  multi-mode is usually used for short distances, has large cores and transmits infrared light. This course then explains how fiber-optic cables transmit data via fast-travelling pulsations of light. Lower attenuation and interference allows an optical fiber to have significant advantages over the copper wire in long-distance, high-bandwidth applications. The information transmitted by fiber optics is typically digital information generated by computers, telephone systems and cable television companies. Finally, you will learn the components that are needed to facilitate communication through an optical communication network, like light signal transmitters, optical fibrervand the photo-detecting receiver. The transmitted signal that travels through the fibers does not radiate. Moreover, the signal cannot be easily tapped from a fiber. Consequently, optical fiber communication provides hundred percent signal security. It is no wonder that it is becoming commercialised. To package fiber into a commercially viable commodity, it typically is protectively covered by using ultraviolet (UV), light-cured acrylate polymers, then finished with optical fiber connectors and subsequently assembled into a cable.
Fiber-optic cables are used in hundreds of industries around the world. Due to its versatility, the professional opportunities are limitless. Fiber-optic systems have enabled scientists to make numerous important strides in the telecommunication, mechanical and medical fields. The realm of fiber optics has opened many opportunities for solving technological predicaments and has improved human civilization. This course is an exciting option for anyone contemplating a career in fiber optics, especially scholars who want to know more about what fiber-optic workers do on the job and how to get into the profession. A career in fiber optics will allow you to work anywhere in the world, from rural districts to big cities, outdoors or indoors, in large or miniature office buildings, on the ground, in the air or inside a data centre. There are many exceptional benefits to working with fiber. You don’t need a high-level university degree, simply specialised skill experience. If you have an interest or dream to work and have a career in fiber optics, why wait? Start this course today and advance your career in this dynamic field!


We considered the value of this course from many aspects, and finally summarized it for you from two aspects: skills and knowledge, and the people who benefit from it:
(Please note that our content is optimized through artificial intelligence tools and carefully reviewed by our editorial staff.)
What skills and knowledge will you acquire during this course?During this course, learners will acquire the following skills and knowledge:
1. Understanding of optical fiber technology: Learners will gain a comprehensive understanding of optical fiber technology, including its structure, composition, and how it works to transmit light signals over long distances.
2. Knowledge of single-mode and multimode fiber: Learners will learn about the two types of optical fibers - single-mode and multimode. They will understand their differences, applications, and transmission characteristics.
3. Transmission of data through fiber-optic cables: Learners will learn how data is transmitted through fiber-optic cables using fast-travelling pulsations of light. They will understand the advantages of fiber optics over copper wires in terms of lower attenuation and interference.
4. Components of an optical communication network: Learners will gain knowledge about the components required for communication through an optical communication network. This includes light signal transmitters, optical fibers, and photo-detecting receivers.
5. Signal security and commercialization of fiber optics: Learners will understand the security advantages of optical fiber communication, as the signal does not radiate and is difficult to tap. They will also learn about the process of packaging fiber into commercially viable commodities, including protective covering, connectors, and cable assembly.
6. Applications and career opportunities in fiber optics: Learners will explore the wide range of industries that use fiber-optic cables and the limitless professional opportunities available in the field. They will understand how fiber optics has contributed to advancements in telecommunication, mechanical, and medical fields.
7. Advantages and benefits of working with fiber optics: Learners will learn about the exceptional benefits of working with fiber optics, including the ability to work anywhere in the world, in various environments, and without the need for a high-level university degree.
By completing this course, learners will be equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to pursue a career in fiber optics and contribute to the advancement of this dynamic field.

Who will benefit from this course?
This course on optical fiber will benefit individuals who are interested in or pursuing careers in the following professions:

1. Telecommunication Engineers: Telecommunication engineers will benefit from this course as it provides a comprehensive understanding of how fiber-optic cables transmit data over long distances. This knowledge is essential for designing and maintaining efficient telecommunication networks.

2. Network Administrators: Network administrators responsible for managing data transmission in organizations will find this course valuable. Understanding fiber-optic technology will enable them to make informed decisions regarding network infrastructure and troubleshoot any issues that may arise.

3. IT Professionals: IT professionals working in fields such as data centers, cloud computing, and internet service providers will benefit from this course. Fiber-optic technology plays a crucial role in these industries, and a deep understanding of its principles and applications will enhance their expertise.

4. Electrical Engineers: Electrical engineers involved in designing and implementing electrical systems can expand their knowledge by taking this course. Fiber-optic cables offer advantages over traditional copper wires, and understanding their capabilities can help electrical engineers optimize their designs.

5. Medical Professionals: Medical professionals working with advanced medical imaging technologies, such as MRI and CT scans, can benefit from this course. Fiber-optic cables are used in these imaging systems to transmit high-quality images, and understanding their functioning can aid in diagnosing and treating patients.

6. Researchers and Scientists: Researchers and scientists in various fields, including physics, materials science, and optics, can gain insights from this course. Fiber-optic technology has revolutionized scientific research and experimentation, and understanding its principles can open up new possibilities for innovation.

7. Students and Scholars: Students and scholars interested in pursuing a career in fiber optics will find this course to be a valuable resource. It provides a comprehensive introduction to the field, covering the basics of fiber-optic technology and its applications, helping them make informed decisions about their educational and career paths.

Course Syllabus

Introduction to Optical Fiber

Course assessment