The cloud, applications such as video, machine-to-machine communications, and Big Data are drivers contributing to this growth. Critical control systems are also gaining importance, both in industry and in critical infrastructure (gas pipelines, power grids, power plants, etc.). These (automated) systems have complex elements and multiple environmental variables that need to be controlled to ensure uninterrupted operations.
From its inception, Fibernet has focused on providing innovative solutions that add value to the world of fiber optic communications. Initially, the focus was on large data centers and their connectivity needs. The scope has broadened to meet the growing demand for security solutions: securing optical communications. Fibernet has responded to this demand in two ways: firstly, by encrypting communications at a low level, introducing the lowest possible latency to avoid disrupting data transmission time; and secondly, by detecting potential intrusions or tampering with communications infrastructure, providing the client with... Finally, a realistic view of what's happening on your network. And how do we see the future at Fibernet, and above all, what can we contribute to the emerging demands? Well, in addition to these "optical highways"—the mesh fiber networks connecting everything at high speed—we see new infrastructures that will change the very concept of our cities. Along with these fiber meshes, there will be a series of devices collecting data on various environmental parameters to promote
more sustainable cities and a better quality of life for those of us who live in them. We've heard talk of "smart cities," the IoT, digital cities... different names with a single philosophy: to have real-time measurements of all the systems that govern a city in order to better manage resources while improving security measures.
Fibernet aims to be a key player as a technological leader in this evolution, and leveraging its group's photonics company, Fibernova, we have launched a new product line to meet this emerging market demand: passive sensors based on fiber optics.
Regarding the technologies on which these sensors are based, we can mention three main types, among others:
- Fiber Bragg grating. A Bragg grating is a periodic or aperiodic disturbance of the refractive index of a fiber core. Different wavelengths are sensed through the fibers depending on the physical parameter to be measured. Physical variations translate into variations in the effect that these disturbances produce on the sensing signals (pressure, displacement, humidity, temperature, etc.).
- Another technique used is Stimulated Brillouin Scattering. This technique is more focused on long-distance paths (> 50 km).
Another technique used is the detection of changes in light polarization during fiber optic transmission. When light passes through a magnetic field, according to Faraday's law, this causes a change in the light's polarization. This allows us to measure the intensity of the magnetic field and, consequently, the current. In any case, there are several advantages to using passive optical sensors compared to conventional "active" ones:
- Smaller size and lighter weight.
- Immune to electromagnetic interference, making them ideal for critical environments, explosive atmospheres, high-voltage environments, etc.
- They do not heat up since they are passive. Many applications simply consist of fiber optic cable.
- Their components are insulating materials (glass).
- Being passive components, they do not require a power supply and, therefore, can be installed anywhere and accessed remotely.
- Greater distances covered.
- Simple maintenance with a high MTBF (Mean Time Between Failures).
Article provided by Fibernet
