How do fibre optic cables compare to UTP in terms of size?

Fibre optic cables are indeed smaller and thinner compared to Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP) cables. This is primarily due to the differences in the materials used and the technology they employ for data transmission. Fibre optic cables consist of very thin strands of glass or plastic fibers that carry data as light signals, which require less physical space. In contrast, UTP cables, typically used for networking, are made of multiple pairs of copper wires that are wrapped together, making them bulkier and thicker.

The compact size of fibre optic cables allows for easier installation in tight spaces and can reduce the clutter often associated with networking setups. Additionally, the lightweight nature of fibre optic cables contributes to ease of handling and installation, especially when running cables over long distances where managing weight becomes a factor.

Given these characteristics, the comparison highlights the advantage of fibre optics in environments where space and weight are key considerations.