1) Introduction a. Fiber optic (or "optical fiber") refers to the medium and the technology associated with the transmission of information as light impulses along a glass or plastic wire or fiber. b. Optical surveillance systems are security set-ups that utilize cameras which are able to monitor surrounding areas in various lighted (or non lighted) environments. c. The cameras are able to adjust to day or night conditions and allow clear imaging of an area. d. Many different locations are using optical surveillance systems to achieve security goals, such as Transportation such as airports, Manufacturing facilities, Military and Armed Services. e. Optical surveillance systems are able to transmit images by different means such as fiber optic technology. 2) How Fibre Optic Surveillance Systems Work a. Digital images are transmitted through a camera via a fiber optic cable. b. Fiber optic cable consists of strands of pure glass that are thinner than human hair. c. The strands carry digital information (such as images) over distance and deliver the information to a receiver. The strands are arranged in bundles that have an outer jacket (covering). 1 Page Prepared by Aamir Mahar
d. The light (image) is transferred along the fiber optic
cable by bouncing along the mirror lined walls of the cable. 3) System a. A fiber optic transmitter is used to feed data into. The transmitter transforms the information into coded light. b. The optical fiber conducts the light signals over a distance. c. An optical booster may be used to amplify the light if it is traveling a long distance. d. An optical receiver decodes the light signal back into the original data format. 4) Applications a. Military communications on the battlefield. b. It is used by many people to protect and monitor their belongings and loved ones. c. Business surveillance systems for security in retail stores, industrial manufacturing facilities 2 Page