Optical fibre can be used to carry information across long distances (such as a transatlantic high bandwidth connection for a telecommunication network).

It also can be used to provide data connections in local area networks or closed circuit TV links. It is just not feasible to produce 7,000 kilometres of fibre in one reel, or even a bundle of fibres pre-cut to length for an office installation.

The only efficient method in which this incredibly flexible product can be used is by cutting and joining lengths together to suit the various requirements of each application.