Difference between Optical Communication and Satellite Communication

Optical communication and satellite communication are two different ways of sending information over long distances. Optical communication sends and receives data using light, while satellite communication sends and receives data using artificial satellites that orbit the Earth.

Both methods have their own pros and cons, and they are used in different situations depending on what the communication system needs. In this article, we'll look at the main differences and similarities between these two ways of communicating.

What is Optical Communication?

Optic Fiber communication transmits data by sending laser-generated light pulses through an optic fiber. Due to the low signal loss in optical fibers and the high data rate of transmission systems, signals with high data rates (greater than several Gbps) can travel over long distances (greater than 100 kilometers) without needing a repeater or amplifier. In addition, wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) permits a single fiber to transport multiple signals (up to ten distinct signals) of multi-Gbps transmissions. Optic Fiber communication offers a very large bandwidth, immunity to electromagnetic interference, no delays, and an external interception. In the 1980s and 1990s, subsea fiber optic cables connected the continents, resulting in a paradigm shift in global telecommunications.

These advancements in optical fiber communication have reduced the need for satellite communications in various contexts. For example, transmission between fixed locations or point-to-point communications, where large bandwidths are required (such as transoceanic telephone systems), is accomplished via optical fiber rather than satellite communication. In addition to telephone signals, Internet communication, LAN (Gigabit LAN), and cable television signals, optical fiber communication is also used to transmit Internet communication.

Features:

• Optical fiber enables transmission over greater distances. Without a relay, optical transmission using a single-mode quartz optical fiber can support transmission distances of several tens of kilometers.
• Optical transmission is also less susceptible to noise.

Advantages:

• High bandwidth: Optical communication systems can support very high bandwidth, allowing for the transmission of large amounts of data at high speeds.

• High security: Optical communication systems are difficult to intercept and can offer high levels of security for sensitive information.

• Immune to electromagnetic interference: Because optical communication systems use light to transmit data, they are not affected by electromagnetic interference, which can disrupt other forms of communication.

• Low power consumption: Optical communication systems require relatively low amounts of power, making them efficient and cost-effective to operate.

Disadvantages:

• Producing optical fiber cabling is more expensive than copper.
• Installation is also more expensive due to the need for specialized test equipment.

What is Satellite Communication?

Artificial satellites serve as relays between a transmitter and a receiver in different locations on Earth for satellite communications. Satellite systems enable users to avoid conventional carrier offices and broadcast data to multiple locations. Satellites for communications are utilized for radio, television, telephone, Internet, military, and other applications. There are more than 2,000 satellites in Earth's orbit, used by government and private organizations for communication.

Communication Satellites are microwave systems with LOS (line-of-sight) and a repeater. These satellites are known as geostationary satellites because they orbit the earth at the same rate as the planet. Due to the limitations of antenna size and focusing capability, a single satellite transmitter can cover a vast area. As the signal must flow from a single point to multiple points in a single direction, satellite communication is ideal for television and radio services. The large distance between satellites and the earth (approximately 35,600 miles) causes delays that negatively impact two-way mobile conversations. Low-earth orbit satellites can be used for two-way mobile communication because they require less power to reach.

Features:

• Satellite communications services include voice and video calling, Internet, fax, television and radio channels.
• Satellite communications can provide long-distance communication capabilities and function under conditions that render other communication inoperable.

Advantages:

• Global coverage: Satellite communication systems can provide coverage to remote or inaccessible areas, making them ideal for providing communication services in remote locations.

• High reliability: Satellite communication systems are generally very reliable, with a low probability of failure or interruption.

• High mobility: Satellite communication systems can be used on the move, such as in vehicles or aircraft, providing a flexible and mobile communication solution.

• Capacity to support multiple users: Satellite communication systems can support a large number of users simultaneously, making them ideal for use in large-scale communication networks.

Disadvantages:

• The cost of satellite design, development, investment, and insurance is higher.

Optical Communication vs. Satellite Communication

Conclusion

In conclusion, optical communication and satellite communication are two different methods of transmitting information over long distances. Optical communication uses light to transmit data, while satellite communication uses artificial satellites orbiting the Earth to transmit and receive data.

Both methods have their own advantages and disadvantages, and are used in different situations depending on the specific requirements of the communication system. Optical communication systems offer high bandwidth and security, as well as low power consumption, while satellite communication systems provide global coverage and support for multiple users.

Related Questions

1. What is better optical fiber or satellite?

Optical fiber offers a significantly greater bandwidth with negligible electromagnetic interference. Satellites possess a narrower bandwidth and are susceptible to interference.

2. What are the 3 types of satellite communication?

There are three main types of satellite communication:

1. Geostationary satellite communication: In this type of satellite communication, the satellite is positioned in a fixed location above the Earth's equator. The satellite remains stationary relative to the Earth, allowing it to provide continuous communication coverage to a specific geographic area. This type of satellite is commonly used for television and radio broadcasting, as well as for long-distance telephone calls.

2. Low Earth orbit satellite communication: In this type of satellite communication, the satellite is positioned at a much lower altitude than a geostationary satellite, typically between 300 and 1,200 kilometers above the Earth's surface. The satellite moves in a relatively low orbit, allowing it to provide global coverage. This type of satellite is commonly used for satellite navigation systems, such as the Global Positioning System (GPS).

3. Medium Earth orbit satellite communication: In this type of satellite communication, the satellite is positioned at an altitude between 5,000 and 35,000 kilometers above the Earth's surface. The satellite moves in an elliptical orbit, allowing it to provide global coverage with some gaps in coverage. This type of satellite is commonly used for military communication and satellite-based internet services.

3. Why optical is faster?

At 1 Gbps, fiber optic internet speeds are approximately 20 times faster than standard cable. Why is fibre optic cable internet significantly superior to standard cable internet? Because there is no copper wire to clog the machinery. The signals for cable internet travel along metal wires.