He recalls that upscale retailer Bergdorf-Goodman was one of the first to incorporate fiber optics lighting into a showcase about 10 years ago. They vented the heat from the projector to the inside of the cabinet and were burning the ankles of the sales clerks. I recall that they ultimately changed the light source. Despite the promise of fiber optics, Spade points out that the technology is imperfect and cost-prohibitive. When the cost goes down and the technology improves, fiber optics will be a viable lighting source in fixtures, he believes.
Fiber optics is extremely expensive.
You also can deliver light over long distances. But keep in mind that the farther you take light down fiber optics, the lesser its intensity. He also points out that if the projector lamp goes out, it will take down the entire showcase. Keeping Up with Trends When evaluating new forms of lighting, it's important to keep in mind that all technological advancements are expensive, according to Reinhard. If you want to be at the top of the technology ladder, it costs money.