What is an advantage of using fiber optic cables in AV systems?

Using fiber optic cables in AV systems is particularly advantageous because they offer high bandwidth and immunity to electromagnetic interference. This is crucial in AV applications where high-quality signal transmission is required, especially over longer distances. The high bandwidth capability of fiber optics allows for the transmission of large amounts of data simultaneously, which is essential for high-definition video and audio signals.

Furthermore, fiber optic cables are immune to electromagnetic interference, which can significantly degrade the quality of signals transmitted through traditional copper cables. This immunity ensures that the signal remains clear and intact, even in environments with heavy electronic noise or multiple sources of interference, such as in professional AV setups or large venues.

In contrast, while factors such as cost and flexibility are important in choosing cabling solutions, they do not directly address the core performance benefits provided by fiber optics, particularly in environments where signal integrity is paramount. Additionally, while the ability to carry power along with data is emerging in certain technologies, it is not a standard characteristic of fiber optics but rather a feature more commonly associated with copper-based solutions.