If you’re thinking about a home theater installation, you will need to decide which type of cables work best when connecting equipment. While copper cables have been standard for many years, fiber optics are now the preferred choice thanks to the many benefits they offer. Here are a few reasons to go fiber optic to ensure the clearest picture and optimum viewing experience. 

Why Should You Use Fiber Optic Cables?

1. Greater Bandwidth and Speed

Bandwidth is a measure of how much data can be sent over a connection during a specific amount of time. This is measured in megabytes/gigabytes per second, or Mbps/Gbps. Fiber optic lines surpass copper cables in terms of bandwidth, with 10 Gbps, 40 Gbps, and 100 Gbps considered standard. When watching 4K media, you need a lot of bandwidth and high speeds to accommodate the crystal-clear picture. 

2. Enhanced Reliability

Interference is another issue with copper cables. When many cables and devices occupy the same area, electromagnetic interference is likely when using copper, which is conductive. This can lead to dropped signals and pixelation, both of which are major problems with a home theater installation. 

Conversely, fiber optic doesn’t carry an electric current, so it won’t fall victim to interference like copper will. It also holds up well against moisture and temperature fluctuations. 

3. Increased Flexibility

Damage to copper cables can occur when they’re bent or pulled into an awkward shape. This is problematic for home theater installations, as it may be necessary to arrange cables in a specific way to keep them out of the eye line. 

Fiber optic has a greater tensile strength than copper, which means it’s more durable. It’s also more flexible, so it can easily be twisted into the proper configuration when installing home theater equipment. 

A skilled custom home theater company can help you make the best decisions about equipment and connections. With more than 25 years of experience, Acoustix Audio Video has a reputation for advanced technical knowledge. Not only are they adept at performing installations, but they can also assist you during the design process. Learn more about using fiber optic in your home theater installation by visiting their website. You can also call (952) 826-8999 to schedule a consultation.