Grounding: Fiber optic cables do not have any metal conductors; consequently, they do not pose the shock hazards inherent in copper cables. The light is a form of carrier wave that is modulated to carry information. The core principle is Total Internal Reflection: light bounces inside the fiber's core because the core has a higher refractive index than the cladding. So, comparing performance, cost, durability and application which is the most efficient option? Cost vs speed Traditionally, metal cabling works by transmitting. When choosing a connector or cable for your application, both fiber optics and metal can be considered based on requirements. Table 1: Advantages of Fiber. Fiber optics, as it is used in the electronics field, is the controlled transmission of light as a signal.