Comparison of the passive light local area network and traditional copper cable local area network

Local area networks (LANs) are used to connect devices in a small geographic area such as a building or campus. Traditional copper cable LANs have been the standard for many years, but passive optical LANs (POLs) are becoming increasingly popular due to their advantages over copper cable LANs. In this article, we will compare the advantages and disadvantages of passive optical LANs and traditional copper cable LANs, and discuss how to upgrade a copper cable LAN to a passive optical LAN.

Passive Optical LAN

A passive optical LAN (POL) is a type of LAN that uses optical fiber and passive optical components to connect devices. POLs are highly scalable, efficient, and cost-effective, making them ideal for use in large buildings and campuses.

Advantages of Passive Optical LAN

Higher Bandwidth: POLs can provide higher bandwidth than copper cable LANs. Optical fiber has a higher data transfer rate and can transmit signals over longer distances without signal degradation.

Increased Security: POLs are more secure than copper cable LANs. Optical fiber does not emit electromagnetic radiation, which makes it difficult to tap into the signal. Additionally, since POLs use passive optical components, there are fewer points of vulnerability for cyber attacks.

Reduced Power Consumption: POLs consume less power than copper cable LANs. Optical fiber requires less power to transmit signals over long distances, and the passive optical components used in POLs do not require power.

Longer Lifespan: POLs have a longer lifespan than copper cable LANs. Optical fiber is less susceptible to environmental factors such as moisture and temperature, and can last up to 25 years without the need for replacement.

Disadvantages of Passive Optical LAN

High Initial Cost: POLs have a higher initial cost than copper cable LANs. The cost of optical fiber and the passive optical components used in POLs is higher than the cost of copper cable and active components used in copper cable LANs.

Specialized Skills Required: POLs require specialized skills and knowledge to design, install, and maintain. This can make it more difficult to find qualified personnel and increase the cost of maintenance.

Limited Distance: POLs are limited in distance. Optical fiber can transmit signals over longer distances than copper cable, but the distance is still limited by the attenuation of the signal.

Traditional Copper Cable LAN

Traditional copper cable LANs use twisted pair cables and active components such as switches and routers to connect devices. Copper cable LANs have been the standard for many years and are still widely used today.

Advantages of Traditional Copper Cable LAN

Lower Initial Cost: Copper cable LANs have a lower initial cost than POLs. The cost of copper cable and active components is lower than the cost of optical fiber and passive components.

Familiar Technology: Copper cable LANs are a familiar technology that has been used for many years. This makes it easier to find qualified personnel and reduces the cost of maintenance.

Longer Distance: Copper cable LANs can transmit signals over longer distances than POLs. While the signal is subject to attenuation, active components can boost the signal and extend the distance.

Disadvantages of Traditional Copper Cable LAN

Limited Bandwidth: Copper cable LANs have limited bandwidth compared to POLs. Twisted pair cables have a lower data transfer rate and are subject to signal degradation over long distances.

Security Risks: Copper cable LANs are more vulnerable to security risks than POLs. Copper cables emit electromagnetic radiation that can be tapped into, and there are more points of vulnerability for cyber attacks due to the use of active components.