Lighting up the Future: Creating a Basic Plastic Optical Fiber Network

Lighting up the Future: Creating a Basic Plastic Optical Fiber Network

Learning Objective

At the end of the lesson, you will be able to perform actions required to create a basic plastic optical fiber network. You will also be able to explain how light refracts through the fiber cables.

Introduce the learning objective and explain the importance of understanding fiber optic cables and their role in the transmission of data.

What do you already know about fiber optic cables and how they transmit data?

What are Plastic Optical Fiber Cables?

Plastic optical fiber cables are made of plastic materials and are used to transmit data over long distances. They are more flexible and easier to install than traditional fiber optic cables.

Introduce plastic optical fiber cables and their advantages over traditional fiber optic cables. Explain how they are used and their importance in modern technology.

How do Fiber Cables Transmit Data?

Fiber cables use light to transmit data. The light bounces off the walls of the cable and travels down the length of the cable. This process is called total internal reflection.

Explain the process of how fiber optic cables transmit data using light. Use diagrams and visual aids to help students understand the concept of total internal reflection.

Preparing the Network

To create a basic plastic optical fiber network, you will need a transmitter, a receiver, and plastic optical fiber cables. Connect the transmitter to the cable and the receiver to the other end of the cable.

Explain the equipment needed to create a basic plastic optical fiber network and how to prepare the network for use. Provide step-by-step instructions and demonstrate the process if possible.

Testing the Network

To test the network, send a signal from the transmitter to the receiver. If the signal is received, the network is working properly.

Explain how to test the network and ensure that it is working properly. Provide troubleshooting tips in case the network is not working as expected.

Creating a Fiber Cable

To create a fiber cable, you will need a plastic optical fiber and a connector. Strip the coating off the end of the fiber and attach the connector. Repeat the process for the other end of the fiber.

Demonstrate how to create a fiber cable and provide step-by-step instructions. Ensure that students understand the process and can create their own fiber cables.

Maintaining the Network

To maintain the network, regularly check the cables for any damage or wear and tear. Clean the cables with a lint-free cloth and ensure that they are not bent or twisted.

Explain the importance of maintaining the network and how to do so. Provide tips for keeping the cables clean and in good condition.

Real-World Applications

Plastic optical fiber networks are used in a variety of applications, including telecommunications, medical equipment, and automotive systems. They are also used in home networks and entertainment systems.

Discuss the real-world applications of plastic optical fiber networks and their importance in modern technology. Encourage students to think about how they can use this knowledge in their future careers.

Write down 3 things you learned in this lesson.

Have students enter three things they learned in this lesson. With this they can indicate their own learning efficiency of this lesson.

Write down 2 things you want to know more about.

Here, students enter two things they would like to know more about. This not only increases involvement, but also gives them more ownership.

Ask 1 question about something you haven't quite understood yet.

The students indicate here (in question form) with which part of the material they still have difficulty. For the teacher, this not only provides insight into the extent to which the students understand/master the material, but also a good starting point for the next lesson.