What is a major disadvantage of fiber optic cables?

What is a major disadvantage of fiber optic cables?

• A. Very expensive
• B. Very cheap
• C. Short distance limitations
• D. They are wireless

Answer: (A)

Cost and installation complexity are the main drawbacks of fiber optic cables. They provide very high bandwidth and can carry signals over long distances with minimal loss, but the upfront expenses are high: the cables themselves, specialized connectors, and the tools needed to splice and terminate fiber, plus the skilled technicians required for installation and testing. That combination of higher material costs and more demanding setup makes it the major disadvantage. The other options don’t fit: fiber isn’t wireless, and it actually excels at long-distance transmission rather than being limited to short distances. It also isn’t a cheap option compared with copper.

Cost and installation complexity are the main drawbacks of fiber optic cables. They provide very high bandwidth and can carry signals over long distances with minimal loss, but the upfront expenses are high: the cables themselves, specialized connectors, and the tools needed to splice and terminate fiber, plus the skilled technicians required for installation and testing. That combination of higher material costs and more demanding setup makes it the major disadvantage. The other options don’t fit: fiber isn’t wireless, and it actually excels at long-distance transmission rather than being limited to short distances. It also isn’t a cheap option compared with copper.