Even though there are still only a small handful of devices and peripherals that actually support the new super-fast Intel, Apple 10Gbps Thunderbolt connection, Intel is already claiming that with just a cable upgrade, the new Thunderbolt ports will allow even faster connectivity.
Intel has unveiled that using fibre optic Thunderbolt cables will significantly increase the speed of transfers of data when compared to the already available copper wire cables.
Intel spokesperson Dave Salvator explains:
“Copper cables provide adequate data transfer for use over short distances of up to six meters (about 20 feet), but optical cables will be good for data transfers over longer distances of tens of meters”
The Advantages of Fibre Optic Thunderbolt Cables
The great news is the new fibre optic cables will be backward compatible with the already existing Thunderbolt ports in machines and devices, enabling a relatively pain-free upgrade with just the purchase of a new cable required. This backward compatibility ensures that users won’t need to replace their existing hardware to take advantage of the increased speeds. The new fibre optic Thunderbolt cables should be arriving sometime next year, Intel says.
Fibre optic cables offer several advantages over traditional copper cables. Firstly, they are capable of transmitting data over much longer distances without signal degradation. This makes them ideal for setups where devices are spread out over a larger area, such as in professional video production environments or large office spaces. Additionally, fibre optic cables are less susceptible to electromagnetic interference, which can be a significant issue in environments with a lot of electronic equipment.
Future Implications and Potential Uses
The introduction of fibre optic Thunderbolt cables opens up a range of possibilities for future technology and applications. For instance, the increased data transfer speeds could revolutionize the way we handle large files, such as 4K and 8K video content. Video editors and graphic designers will be able to transfer massive files quickly and efficiently, significantly speeding up their workflow.
Moreover, the enhanced speed and reliability of fibre optic cables could benefit data centers and cloud computing services. Faster data transfer rates mean that data can be moved between servers and storage devices more quickly, improving overall efficiency and reducing latency. This could lead to more responsive cloud services and better performance for end-users.
Another potential application is in the realm of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR). These technologies require the transfer of large amounts of data in real-time to provide a seamless experience. Fibre optic Thunderbolt cables could help meet these demands, enabling more immersive and responsive VR and AR experiences.
In the consumer market, faster Thunderbolt connections could enhance the performance of external storage devices, such as SSDs and RAID arrays. Users who work with large datasets, such as researchers and engineers, will benefit from quicker access to their data, improving productivity and reducing downtime.
Intel’s commitment to advancing Thunderbolt technology demonstrates their dedication to pushing the boundaries of data transfer speeds. As more devices and peripherals begin to support Thunderbolt connections, the adoption of fibre optic cables will likely become more widespread, further driving innovation and performance improvements across various industries.
Source: Gizmodo : Mac World
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