Fibre Multiplexing: An Overview of Frequency Division Multiplexing (FDM)

Fibre multiplexing is a technique used to transmit multiple signals over a single fibre optic cable, allowing for efficient use of bandwidth and high transmission rates. One popular method of fibre multiplexing is frequency division multiplexing (FDM).

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at FDM and its key features, advantages, and disadvantages.

What is Frequency Division Multiplexing (FDM)?

Frequency division multiplexing (FDM) is a method of transmitting multiple signals over a single fibre optic cable by using different frequency bands for each signal. This allows for a higher capacity and faster transmission rates, as multiple signals can be transmitted simultaneously over the same fibre optic cable.

FDM is commonly used in telecommunications and other applications where a large amount of data needs to be transmitted over long distances. It is also used in local area networks (LANs) and other short-distance applications.

Advantages of FDM

There are several advantages to using FDM as a method of fibre multiplexing:

• High capacity: FDM allows for a higher capacity than other methods of fibre multiplexing, as multiple signals can be transmitted simultaneously over the same fibre optic cable.
• Fast transmission rates: FDM allows for fast transmission rates, making it suitable for high-speed data transmission over long distances.
• Efficient use of bandwidth: FDM allows for efficient use of bandwidth, as multiple signals can be transmitted simultaneously over the same fibre optic cable.

Disadvantages of FDM

There are also some disadvantages to using FDM as a method of fibre multiplexing:

• Complexity: FDM systems can be more complex to set up and manage than other methods of fibre multiplexing.
• Interference: FDM systems are susceptible to interference from other signals in the same frequency band, which can degrade the quality of the transmitted signal.

Overall, FDM is a useful method of fibre multiplexing that can provide high capacity, fast transmission rates, and efficient use of bandwidth in certain situations. However, it’s important to carefully consider the potential complexity and interference issues of FDM systems when deciding which method of fibre multiplexing is right for you.