But crystal fibres push the range of single-mode wavelengths right into the visible part of the spectrum, opening up huge new tracts of wavelength for telecommunications.
This device patented by a German scientist, Ferdinand Braun, in 1899 was made of a single metal wire, fondly called a cat's whisker, touching against a semiconductor crystal.
Indeed, one would have to possess one heck of a crystal ball to know when the nation will finally find itself with no choice but to adopt a single-payer system because the private insurers will no longer find it worth their while to remain in the business.