Optical fibre is a technology that enables the transmission of data through light signals. It consists of thin strands made from glass or plastic, designed to carry light over long distances with minimal loss. The core of the optical fibre, where the light travels, is surrounded by a cladding layer that reflects light back into the core, allowing for efficient transmission via a principle known as total internal reflection.

This technology is widely used in telecommunications, internet services, and various industrial applications due to its ability to transmit large amounts of data at high speeds and over long distances without significant interference from electromagnetic signals.

For those managing their broadband connections, platforms like Bajaj Pay facilitate easy online transactions for services such as broadband bill payments.

Construction and working of optical fibre

The construction of optical fibre involves several key components:

Core: The innermost part of the fibre, typically made of glass or plastic, where the light travels. Its diameter is usually around 8 to 10 micrometres for single-mode fibres and up to 50 or 62.5 micrometres for multimode fibres.

Cladding: Surrounding the core, this layer has a lower refractive index than the core. It reflects light back into the core through total internal reflection, preventing signal loss.

Jacket: The outer protective layer that shields the fibre from physical damage and environmental factors.

The working principle of optical fibre relies on total internal reflection. When a light pulse enters the core at a specific angle, it reflects off the cladding walls rather than passing through, allowing it to travel along the length of the fibre. This mechanism enables optical fibres to transmit data over long distances with minimal attenuation, making them ideal for high-speed communication networks.

Types of optical fibre

• Single-mode fibre: Features a small core diameter (approximately 9 micrometres).
• Multimode fibre: Has a larger core diameter (50 to 62.5 micrometres).
• Graded index fibre: A type of multimode fibre where the refractive index decreases gradually from the centre towards the cladding.

These types of optical fibre cater to various applications based on distance requirements and data transmission speeds.

Advantages of optical fibre over traditional cables

Optical fibre offers faster internet, better reliability, and lower latency. It handles high-speed data without interference, making it ideal for streaming, gaming, and work. Plus, it supports long-distance communication with minimal signal loss.

This table highlights how optical fibres outperform traditional cables in various aspects, making them a preferred choice for modern communication systems.

Uses of optical fibre in different industries

Optical fibre can be used in a variety of industries. Some of the major use cases of optical fibre technology are listed below:

• Medical applications: Optical fibres are used in endoscopy and other medical imaging techniques, allowing doctors to view internal organs without invasive procedures.
• Telecommunications: They form the backbone of internet and telephone networks, enabling high-speed data transmission over long distances with low latency.
• Defence and aerospace: Optical fibres are utilised in secure communications systems and sensors due to their resistance to electromagnetic interference.
• Broadcasting: They are employed in transmitting high-quality audio and video signals over long distances, enhancing broadcasting capabilities.
• Lighting and decorations: Optical fibres are used in decorative lighting applications, providing flexible lighting solutions for various settings.
• Industrial inspections: Used in remote sensing applications, optical fibres help inspect hard-to-reach areas in machinery and structures without direct access.

These applications demonstrate the versatility and critical role of optical fibres across diverse sectors.

Disadvantages or limitations of optical fibre

While there are a variety of ways in which optical fibre can be used, as well as multiple benefits of optical fiber. But there are a few limitations to this technology.

• Fragility: Optical fibres are more delicate than copper wires; they can break easily if bent or twisted excessively.
• Cost: The initial installation cost can be higher compared to traditional copper cables due to the specialised equipment and materials required.
• Complex installation: Installing optical fibre systems often requires skilled technicians due to their intricate nature and handling requirements.
• Limited bending radius: Excessive bending can lead to signal loss or damage, necessitating careful installation practices.

These limitations highlight some challenges associated with adopting optical fibre technology despite its many advantages.

Future of optical fibre technology

The future of optical fibre technology looks promising with ongoing advancements aimed at enhancing performance:

• Higher data rates: Research is focused on increasing data transmission rates beyond current capabilities, potentially reaching terabits per second.
• Integration with other technologies: The convergence of optical fibres with technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) could optimise network performance and management.
• Expanded applications: As industries increasingly rely on high-speed data transfer, new applications in fields like smart cities, autonomous vehicles, and IoT devices will emerge.
• Improved manufacturing techniques: Innovations in production methods may reduce costs while enhancing durability and flexibility of optical fibres.

These developments suggest that optical fibre technology will continue to evolve, playing a crucial role in shaping future communication infrastructures.

Steps to pay your broadband bill online on the Bajaj Finserv website

Paying the broadband bill through the Bajaj Finserv website is simple. Here are the steps:

1. Visit the Bajaj Finserv website

2. Navigate to ‘ALL PAYMENTS’ under the ‘PAYMENTS’ section and click on it

3. Select the ‘BROADBAND POSTPAID’ option from under ‘BILLS & RECHARGES’

4. A pop-up will request for sign-in, enter your mobile number and click on ‘GET OTP’ to login

5. Select your service provider from the list of broadband service providers

6. Enter your ‘CUSTOMER ID’ and click on ‘FETCH YOUR BILL’

7. Verify the bill amount and click on ‘PAY NOW’

8. Pay using the multiple payment methods available such as Bajaj Pay UPI, debit card, credit card, net banking, and Bajaj Pay Wallet.

Post the transaction you will be receiving a confirmation to intimate about successful payment.

Fee and charges

A convenience fee of up to 2% will be charged depending on the transaction amount and payment mode (inclusive of applicable taxes). For more information on fees and charges, click here.Note: For failed transactions, the total amount including charges except taxes are reversed.