1.5c - Optical Fiber (Prof. Messer)

Vocabulary flashcards covering the components, types, and benefits of optical fiber technology based on the N10-009 Network+ notes.

Optical Fiber Connectivity

A method of networking that allows traffic to be sent across a network using light, offering high security and resistance to interference.

Core

The very reflective center of a fiber optic cable that allows light to bounce through as it travels to a receiver.

Cladding

The low reflective layer surrounding the fiber optic core.

Buffer Coating

The protective layer on the outside of a fiber optic run that protects the internal components.

Ferrule

A protective part located at the end of a fiber optic cable connector that surrounds the fiber.

Multi-mode Fiber

Fiber optic cabling used for relatively short range communication, up to approximately $2\,km$, which allows light to use different modes to transmit through a relatively large core.

Single-mode Fiber

Fiber optic cabling used for long-distance communication, up to $100\,km$, which uses a smaller core to allow only a single mode of light to propagate.

LED (Light Emitting Diode)

An inexpensive light source typically used for multi-mode fiber communication.

Laser

A concentrated light source often used with single-mode fiber to extend signals over long distances.

Radio Frequency Interference

A type of signal disruption that fiber optics are not susceptible to because they use light rather than electrical signals.