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Role of antenna; optical fiber pros and cons

Short answer

An antenna converts electrical signals to/from EM waves, provides impedance matching, and adds directivity/gain for wireless communication. Optical fiber advantages: high bandwidth, low loss, EMI immunity, security, small size; disadvantages: high cost, fragile, difficult splicing, no power carrying.

Discuss the role of antenna in communication system. What are the advantages and disadvantages of optical fiber communication?

Role of antenna in a communication system

An antenna is a transducer that converts electrical signals into electromagnetic waves and vice versa.

  • Transmitting antenna: takes the modulated high-frequency signal from the transmitter through the feed line and radiates it as EM waves into free space.
  • Receiving antenna: intercepts the EM waves from space and converts them to a weak electrical signal for the receiver.
  • It matches the transmission line to free space (impedance matching), so that maximum power is transferred.
  • It gives directivity and gain, concentrating power in the wanted direction, which increases range and reduces interference.

Without an antenna, wireless communication is not possible.

Optical fiber communication

Advantages

  1. Very high bandwidth and data rate.
  2. Low attenuation, so long distances with few repeaters.
  3. No EMI or crosstalk.
  4. Secure, hard to tap.
  5. Light, small and flexible.
  6. Safe, no electrical hazard.

Disadvantages

  1. Terminal equipment and installation are costly.
  2. Jointing and splicing need skill and special tools.
  3. Fibers are fragile and cannot be bent sharply.
  4. Cannot carry electric power.
  5. Maintenance and repair of breaks are difficult.

✓ Answer checked by Claude Opus 5.5 (high effort)

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