When would a fiber optic cable be used in place of a copper cable for communications?
The primary reason that optical fibers are specified for certain communications applications primarily related to the amount of information to be sent and the distances between sending and receiving points on the network. For most applications where high volumes of telephone voice circuits are to be supported SMF is specified. For moderated data transmission data rated and distances MMF is used. For short distance (<300ft) and moderate bandwidth, copper is typically used.
