Fiber Optic Terms

Fiber Optic Training Terms a Network Administrator Must Kn..
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Fiber Optic Terms:

Absorption: One cause of attenuation where light signal is absorbed into the glass during transmission.
Adaptor: A device used to interconnect two different connector types.
Attenuation: Optical loss of power. Attenuation is measured in dB loss per length of cable. Attenuation is usually caused by absorption and
scattering.
Attenuator: A device used to attenuate an optical signal.
Back Reflection: A measure of the light reflected off the polished end of a fiber connector. Measured in negative dB relative to incident power.
Bandwidth: The range of signal frequencies that a fiber optic cable will transmit.
Buffer: The protective coating over the fiber.
Coupler: A device used to connect two similar connector types.
Fusion Splice: A permanent splice where the two fiber ends are welded together.
Insertion Loss: The attenuation caused by the insertion of a device (such as a splice or connection point) to a cable.
Link: The entire span between two optical devices. Includes all cable, connections, and splices.
Loss Budget: The maximum amount of power that is allowed to be lost per optical link.
Jack: The female receptacle - usually found on equipment.
Mandrel: A fiber wrapping device used to cause attenuation within a fiber cable.
Mechanical Splice: A mechanical means of connecting two fibers.
Multimode: A type of fiber optic cable where the core diameter is much larger than the wavelength of light transmitted. Two common multimode
fiber types are 50/125 and 62.5/125.
Plug: The male connector.
Return Loss: The ratio of the power launched into a cable and the power of the light returned down the fiber. This measurement is expressed in
positive decibel units (dB). A higher number is better. Return Loss = 10 log (incident power / returned power).
Scattering: A second cause of attenuation. Scattering occurs when light collides with individual atoms in the glass.
Singlemode: A type of fiber with a small core that allows only one mode of light to propagate.
Termination: The process of mechanically installing a connector onto a fiber cable.
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Fiber Optic Training Terms a Network Administrator Must Kn.. Page 2 of 18

Termination: The process of mechanically installing a connector onto a fiber cable.
Wavelength: A means of measuring light color. Expressed in nanometers (nm).
How Do Fiber Optics Work? A Quick Lesson In Optical Transmission
Where copper cabling uses electricity to transmit signals from one end to another, fiber optics use light pulses to accomplish the same purpose. Th
fiber cable is made of a transparent glass core surrounded by a mirror like covering called cladding. Light passes through the cable, bouncing off t
cladding until it reaches the other end of the fiber channel - this is called total internal reflection.
The diameter of the core corresponds directly with the angle of reflection. As this diameter increases, the light requires more reflections (and in tu
greater amount of time) to travel a given distance. Singlemode fiber optic cable has a smaller diameter core which lends itself to long distance, hi
bandwidth runs. Multimode fiber has a larger diameter core and is more commonly used in shorter cable runs. Multimode cabling is more econom
and easier to work with; it is the choice for most local area networks.
When to Use Fiber Optic Cabling - A Comparison to Copper
Fiber optic cabling has many advantages that cannot be matched via copper or wireless transmission. First, optical fiber can transport more
information to much longer distances in less transmission time. This is because fiber has less attenuation (loss) and more bandwidth (capacity). A
from distance and speed, optical transmission cannot be affected by electromagnetic radiation (noise), making it handy to use in environments wh
this is a problem. Fiber is also relatively secure since the optical transmission cannot be tapped as easily as electrical transmission.
In recent years, optoelectronic circuitry has become more standardized and economies of scale have greatly reduced their cost. Due to this, optica
transmission is becoming much more common.
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Data Communications Terms

Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM): A very high speed network utilizing SONET optical transmission methods through the public
telecommunications system.
Baseband Transmission: A transmission method where direct current signals are placed directly onto the transmission medium (cable). Etherne
a baseband network type, hence, the Base in 10Base-T, etc.
Baud Rate: A measure of signal changes per second. Commonly used to rate the speed of a modem.
Bridge: A networking component that links two or more network segments. Bridges are used to split busy networks into separate, less congested
segments.
Broadband Transmission: A transmission method where multiple channels are modulated onto separate carrier frequencies. The result is multip
communications channels that occupy specific frequency ranges.
Bus: Also called a "Daisy Chain". A network topology where each node is connected to one another in line. A major disadvantage is that when the
a break in the bus the entire network goes down.
Client Server: A network architecture where multiple user workstations (Clients) communicate with backend servers through a network. Clients a
fully operating systems that are capable of processing data.
CODEC: An acronym for COder/DECoder. A device used for converting analog signals to digital signals.
Converter: A device used to convert from one transmission media to another (Ex. Fiber/Copper Media Converter). Converters are usually externa
powered as they physically repeat or regenerate the signal.
CSMA: Carrier Sense Multiple Access
Ethernet: The most common of the network standards established in the early 1980's by the IEEE committee under standard 802.3
Fiber Distributed Data Interface (FDDI): A 100Mbps fiber optic cabling standard developed by ANSI. FDDI utilizes a dual counter rotating ring
topology for network redundancy.
Hub: A network device that receives a signal from one station and retransmits to all other connected stations.
Local Area Network (LAN): A network that remains within one facility (department, office, building, campus).
MODEM: An acronym for Modulate/Demodulate. Modems are data communications devices that convert digital signals to analog signals for
transmission over analog public telephone networks.
Network Interface Card (NIC): Network devices that are installed in computers so that they can be connected to a network. Ethernet NICs com
different speeds as well as with connections to different media types. Node: A device or station connected to a network.
Peer to Peer: A network architecture where computers connect directly with other computers without the need for servers.
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Peer to Peer: A network architecture where computers connect directly with other computers without the need for servers.
Redundancy: Utilizing multiple access methods so that if one goes down the systems still operate.
Repeater: A network device that regenerates the signal to increase a cabling run.
Ring: A network topology where nodes are connected in a ring. Used in Token Ring and SONET networks.
Router: A network device that interconnects networks. Routers provide traffic control and filtering functions, they are commonly used to connect
LAN to the Internet.
Server: A computing device that provides a service to users on a network (clients). An example is a file server that stores and maintains documen
for retrieval.
Small Computer System Interface (SCSI):
A peripheral interface that is used to connect devices to a computer.
Star: The most common network topology where each node is connected to a central point. Advantageous because if one part of the star is lost th
network remains intact.
Switch: A switch is a multiport bridge that segregates different portions of a network for faster network access (See Basic Ethernet Theory - right
Synchronous Optical Network (SONET): A Bellcore and ANSI standard that defines transmission of synchronous and time sensitive (ex: real ti
video) information. SONET provides a way for worldwide carriers to connect equipment.
Token Ring: A networking standard that utilizes a ring topology. Information is put onto the ring which is then passed (Token Passing) to the
different stations. The amount of time that a station possesses the token is variable which gives some users priority on the network. Token Ring w
standardized by IEEE under the 802.5 standard.
Transceiver: A device used to change one media type to another. Transceivers usually get their power from the NIC.
Wide Area Network (WAN): A network that spans a greater distance and needs the involvement of a public carrier.
What is Ethernet?
In the early 1980s, Digital Equipment Corporation, Intel, and Xerox developed the Ethernet Local Area Networking format. This technology was
accepted by the IEEE Committee, creating the 802.3 standard. This standard dictates the use of CSMA/CD (Carrier Sense Multiple Access
Collision Detection) as its accessing scheme. Networks use a variety of NICs (Network Interface Cards), hubs, transceivers, converters, repeat
switches, as well as different types of transmission media for carrying signals.
Accessing Scheme:
CSMA/CD - Carrier sense multiple access with Collision Detection.
Speed:
10 Mbps/100 Mbps/1000 Mbps (1 Gbps).
Network Architecture:
Coax Bus, UTP Star, Fiber Star
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1. Ethernet operational theory is quite easy to understand and a simple analogy is helpful to visualize the basics. Imagine a long hallway lined wit
offices. The hallway represents the physical network, the offices represent the attached stations. When an occupant wishes to speak to another
occupant they would lean into the hallway, listen to make sure no one else is engaging in a conversation, then speak out addressing the desired
recipient. All other occupants hear the conversation but ignore it knowing it is not directed to them.
In essence, the above analogy describes the medium access method standardized under IEEE802.3 known as Carrier Sense Multiple Access with
Collision Detection (CSMA/CD). Carrier Sense is analogous to the ability to listen to all conversations (network traffic). Multiple Access is the abilit
multiple users to access the medium while data is transmitted.
2. Returning to our analogy, what if two or more occupants decide to speak at the same time? Naturally the overlapping voices would become gar
and indistinguishable. With Ethernet this is known as a collision. In the CSMA/CD method, CD stands for Collision Detection. If a collision is detec
by a transmitting station(s) the rule states: stop transmitting immediately, transmit a jamming signal to inform all other stations to stop, then wa
random period (binary exponential backoff) and re-transmit.
Unfortunately, as the quantity of stations increases so does the amount of collisions. This causes the average access time to increase proportional
This is referred to in the industry as network congestion.
3. Fortunately, there are several ways to alleviate network congestion. One way is that the entire network can be upgraded to Fast Ethernet (100
Mbps) which represents a 10 fold increase in transmission speed. This, however requires upgrading of all components and can be rather expensive
Another approach is to add an Ethernet Switch.
In the above analogy, the long hallway represents the network. Adding a two port switch is analogous to dividing the hallway into two shorter
hallways separated by a door. This creates two segments (collision domains) where messages that are directed for occupants within the same are
are not allowed to pass through the door. Only when a message is directed to another segment does the door open allowing the message to pass.
An Ethernet switch reduces collisions by creating multiple collision domains. This, in most cases, is the most economical approach. A switch can b
added to any network without the need to upgrade existing equipment.
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Data Cabling Terms
American Wire Gauge (AWG): A U.S. standard set of non-ferrous wire conductor sizes. Typical data wiring is AWG number 24, 26 or 28. The
higher the gauge number, the smaller the diameter and the thinner the wire.
Backshell (Hood): A mechanical backing that is sometimes put onto a connector. The device protects the conductors and can be assembled or
injection molded. Commonly used with D-Sub connectors.
Cable: A set of insulated wires or conductors within an extruded jacket. Many types of cable utilize shielding around the wires and under the cable
jacket.
Cable Assembly: A cable that has been terminated with one or more connectors.
Conductor: A metal path (usually copper) that passes electricity. When discussing data cabling, "wire" and "conductor" are synonymous.
Connector: An electromechanical coupling device that provides an electrical interface that can be mated and unmated.
Contact: The specific points of contact within a connector. Contacts can be male (pins) or female (sockets.).
Contact Resistance: First, resistance is basically the opposition to electron flow in an electrical circuit and connector manufacturers strive to atta
the lowest amount of resistance possible for each contact. Contact resistance is the cumulative resistance value for mated contacts.
Crimping: A means of securing an electrical contact to a wire using tools that compress the metal contact around the wire.
Crosstalk: When unwanted electromagnetic fields from conductors are transferred into adjacent conductors. Crosstalk is controlled by twisting
conductors into a pair or separating/shielding conductors.
D-Subminiature: A common connector type that utilizes multiple pins and a D shaped housing.
Drawing: The mechanical process of making conductors smaller by forcing through dies.
Electromagnetic Interference (EMI): Unwanted electrical or electromagnetic energy that causes unwanted responses in electronic equipment.
Extrusion: The mechanical process of coating a wire or group of wires with insulating material.
Ground: Any zero-voltage point. Earth is considered a zero voltage grounding point.
Ground Wire (Drain Wire): An extra conductor (usually a bare wire) added to a cable for connection of the grounding path.
Ground Wire (Drain Wire): An extra conductor (usually a bare wire) added to a cable for connection of the grounding path.
Injection Molding: The process used to inject molten polymer into a mold. Connector backshells are often injection molded.
Insulation: A material with very high resistivity used to protect conductors. Insulation is usually extruded over the wire or conductor after the
drawing process.
Shielding: A conductive foil or braid that covers insulated wires in a cable. The shield provides electrical grounding and protection from external
electromagnetic interference (EMI). Shielding is also used to control internal electromagnetic radiation.
Soldering: A means of securing an electrical contact to a wire by heating a low alloy of tin and lead also known as "solder".
Solid Wire (or Conductor): One strand of wire. Usually less flexible, lower in cost and lower in resistance than stranded wire of the same AWG.
Solid wire is typically used in permanent installations where flexing does not occur.
Strain Relief: A method of protecting the wire to contact point from flexing or pulling.
Stranded Wire (or Conductor): Multiple small AWG strands of wire that are put together to make a flexible wire with similar electrical propertie
a similar solid wire. Stranded wires are usually used in data cabling.
Twisted Pair: Two insulated conductors twisted at a fixed rate of twists per unit of length, typically used in balanced circuits where nominal
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Twisted Pair: Two insulated conductors twisted at a fixed rate of twists per unit of length, typically used in balanced circuits where nominal
impedance and crosstalk are critical characteristics.
Wire: A conductive material (usually copper) that has been drawn down to a specific size (see wire basics) and is then coated with an insulating
material. A "bare wire" utilizes no insulator coating.
Coaxial Cabling Terms
Coaxial Cabling is a two conductor closed transmission medium that is often used for the transmission of RF energy. The system offers tight contr
over electrical impedance. This yields excellent performance at high frequencies and superior EMI control/shielding when compared to other types
copper cabling. Coaxial cabling is commonly found in test environments as well as in broadcast and networking systems. Listed below are some
common terms and definitions that are related to coaxial cabling:
Attenuation (Insertion Loss): Loss of power. Attenuation is usually measured in dB loss per length of cable (ex. 31.0 dB/100Ft.). Attenuation
increases as frequency increases.
BALUN: An acronym for BALanced/UNbalanced. A device commonly used to change one cabling media to another (ex. coaxial to twisted pair balu
Center Conductor: The solid or stranded wire in the middle of the coaxial cable. The conductor diameter is measured by the American Wire Gaug
(AWG).
Coaxial Adaptor: A device used to change one connector type to another or one gender to another (ex. BNC to SMA Adaptor).
Coaxial Cable: A two conductor cylindrical transmission line typically comprised of a center conductor, an insulating dielectric material and an ou
conductor (shielding). Coaxial cable can be flexible (typical to the assemblies found in this catalog), semi-rigid or rigid in nature.
Coaxial Connector: The interconnection device found at each end of a coaxial cable assembly. There are many common types of coaxial connect
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Coaxial Connector: The interconnection device found at each end of a coaxial cable assembly. There are many common types of coaxial connect
such as: BNC, SMA, SMB, F, etc.
Dielectric: The insulating material that separates the center conductor and the shielding.
Electromagnetic Interference (EMI): Electrical or electro-magnetic energy that disrupts electrical signals.
Frequency: The number of times a periodic action occurs in one second. Measured in Hertz.
Impedance: The opposition to the flow of alternating or varying current. Measured in Ohms.
Jack: The female connector usually containing a center socket.
Plug: The male connector usually containing a center pin.
RG/U: Symbols used to represent coaxial cable that is built to U.S. government specifications (R=Radio Frequency, G=Government, U=Universal
Specification)
Shielding: Conductive envelope made of wires or metal foil that covers the dielectric and the center conductor
Twinaxial: An offshoot from coaxial cabling. Two center conductors with one dielectric and braided shielding.
VSWR (Voltage Standing Wave Ratio): Amount of reflected power expressed as a ratio (Ex. 1.25:1) VSWR increases as frequency increases.
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Premise Wiring Terms
Premise Wiring is the cabling, connectors, and accessories that are used to connect LAN (Local Area Network) and phone equipment within a
commercial building. Premise Wiring is standardized, this means that a governing body (in this case ANSI and TIA/EIA) set requirements regardin
the minimum performance levels for products used as well as offer design and layout criteria that must be followed. The end result of a standard i
that all the manufacturers are on the same page with regards to how they make their premise wiring products. Also, all cable installers should fo
the same rules making it easier to troubleshoot and expand the wiring in the future.
To explain all of the details that pertain to premise wiring in one page is nothing short of impossible. Nonetheless, this page can be used as a prim
for those who wish to understand things a little further. The first place to start is with common terms:
Backbone Wiring: The cabling used between telecommunication closets, entrance facilities, equipment rooms, or buildings.
Category 5: The standard unshielded twisted pair cabling used for LAN drops.
Conduit: Circular raceway that cable is run inside. Conduit requirements are specified under appropriate electrical code.
Cross Connect: The connection method used between permanent cabling (inside the walls) and equipment. A patch cord is often used as the
connection means.
Demarcation Point: The point at which operational control changes (for example, where the phone companys responsibility ends and the buildin
owners begins).
Drop: Slang term used for each cabling span pulled from a telecommunications closet.
Equipment Room: The space dedicated to telecommunications equipment.
Horizontal Wiring: The span of cabling and connectors between the wiring closet and each drop. It is called horizontal because this type of wirin
does not go up or down any floors of a building.
Equipment Room: The space dedicated to telecommunications equipment.
Horizontal Wiring: The span of cabling and connectors between the wiring closet and each drop. It is called horizontal because this type of wirin
does not go up or down any floors of a building.
Insulation Displacement Contact: A means of terminating wires without the need of stripping down to the bare wire.
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Insulation Displacement Contact: A means of terminating wires without the need of stripping down to the bare wire.
Jumper: Single twisted pairs used for cross connecting between 66, 110, or Krone blocks.
Modular Jack: The female connector used at the end of each horizontal cabling drop. Usually Modular Jacks utilize a 6 or 8 contact modular plug
the patching side) and a 110, Krone, or other Insulation Displacement connection method (on the permanent horizontal wiring side).
Modular Plug: The male connector usually found at the end of a patch cord.
Patch Cord: A cable assembly with modular plugs on each end. Used for patching equipment to the patch panel in the equipment room and also
to connect to phones and computers at the drop.
Patch Panel: The common cross connect method used inside an equipment room. Typical Patch Panels utilize 110 or Krone connectors (on the re
to connect to the horizontal cabling and modular jacks on the front to connect to equipment via patch cords.
Star Topology: The topology where wiring stems from one central point.
Telecommunications Closet: Enclosed space for containing telecommunications equipment, cable terminations and cross connects.
Work Area: Building space where occupants utilize telecommunications equipment.
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Video Display Terms
The Video Electronics Standard Association (VESA) was formed in 1989. The main goal of this organization is to establish and support standards t
manufacturers of personal computers, workstations and associated hardware and software. With membership of over 300 companies, both consum
members ultimately benefit by:
Creation of unbiased standards
Availability of accurate information
Fostering a team atmosphere
Increasing product interoperability
There are, however, manufacturers that do not follow established standards. This does create confusion and incompatibility of various products. L
some associated common terms and definitions:
Analog Signals: Both video and audio signals that are continuously varying in level are said to be analog.
Attenuation: A reduction in the strength of a signal.

Bandwidth: The difference between the upper and lower usable limits of a band of frequencies.
Baseband: Unmodulated video or audio signals with an exclusive transmission path.
Chroma: The color portion of a video signal C.
Composite Sync: A combination of horizontal and vertical sync pulses.

db: A logarithmic unit of measure where 3db represents a doubling or halving the power level from a given starting point.
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db: A logarithmic unit of measure where 3db represents a doubling or halving the power level from a given starting point.
DDC: (Data Display Channel) is a standard that defines communication between a monitor and a host system.
Digital Signals: Data presented as discrete values i.e. On/Off or Binary.
Luma: The brightness portion of a video signal (Y).

Pixel: A single point on a display.
Resolution: The density of pixels in a given area typically expressed as the horizontal x vertical values, (ex. 640x480).
Refresh Rate: Also referred to as scan rate. It is the number of times in one second (Hz) that the electron beam travels across the screen horizon
scan line to the next.
RGB: Red, Green and Blue.
SVGA: Super Video Graphics Array.
S-Video: A video signal that separates the Y or Luma and C or chroma information.
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The Digital Flat Panel DFP interface is rapidly gaining popularity in the display marketplace.
The size and quality of display characteristics are sure to drive future usage. This interface is attractive as it allows a host to connect to a display
to digital conversion. It also makes use of display features from other standards. Low cost of implementation and relative simplicity are key driver
interface.
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Glossary
ANSI (American National Standards Institute) -A voluntary, U.S. based standards setting organization for the information processing industry. .
APC - This is a specialized polishing procedure (Angle-polish Physical Contact). There is an 8 degree angle created in the polish. It is typically use
on simplex Single mode cable with SC connectors. It is used with high-end lasers or receivers where there are concerns for back reflection.
ASCII (American Standard Code for Information Interchange) - A widely used 7-bit code-set established by ANSI to achieve compatibility betwee
products manufactured by different companies.
AUI (Attachment Unit Interface) - A cable interface located between a MAU and a DTE, referred to as a DB15.
Access Method -The way in which a node is permitted to send data over the media. With Ethernet, the node listens to the line to determine if it i
available (heartbeat) before transmitting.
Adapter - A device used to join two like or different fiber optic connectors together. Adapters made to join different connectors are called hybrid
adapters.
Address - A number uniquely identifying each node in a network (MAC address).
Aramid Yarn - Strength elements that provide tensile strength, support, and additional protection for fiber bundles. Kevlar is a brand name of ar
fiber.
Application Layer - The seventh layer in the OSI model, which is ultimately responsible for managing communication between application proce
Armor - Additional protective element beneath a cable outer jack to provide higher level protection for the inner cable components. Usually made
plastic coated steel, sometimes corrugated for flexibility.
Attenuation - The decrease in magnitude of power of a signal in transmission between points. A term used for expressing the total loss of an opt
system, normally measured in decibels (dB) at a specific wavelength. See Attenuators section.
Backbone - Any network considered to provide interconnection among subnetworks.
Backbone Cabling - The portion of premises cabling that provides connections between primary data and telecommunications equipment and
infrastructure access points.
Bandwidth - The difference between the two limiting frequencies of a band, expressed in Hz (hertz). Its the measure of the information-carrying
capacity of an optical fiber. Note: This term is often used to specify the normalized modal bandwidth. (MHz/km) of a multimode fiber.
Baseband - A transmission technique that allows only one signal at one time to travel on a cable.
Bit - A contraction of Binary Digit. Its the smallest unit of digital information.
Bps (bits per second) - A unit of measure for the transmission of signals that represent characters of data.
BNC Connector - A specific type of barrel connector used for coaxial RG58 cable connection.
Breakout cable - This multiple fiber cable is used in more heavy duty applications. Each fiber in the cable (12 or 24) is individually padded and
wrapped. It handles pressure, strain, impact, and repetitive motion very well.
Bridge - A LAN interconnection device used to link two or more local or remote LANS. Bridges are used extensively in LAN systems to extend thei
physical dimensions or modify their performance. These have mostly been replaced by Switches and Routers.
Bridge MIB - A specification that defines an experimental portion of the Management Information Base for use with network managing protocols
TCP/IP based internets. In particular, it defines objects for managing bridges based on the IEEE 802.3.
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TCP/IP based internets. In particular, it defines objects for managing bridges based on the IEEE 802.3.
Broadband - A method of transmission in which data flows from source to destination in a different form that existed at the source. Although
typically referring to copper, it denotes transmission facilities capable of handling a wide range of frequencies simultaneously, thus permitting mu
channels in data systems, rather than direct modulation.
Brouter - A network device that can perform the functions of both a bridge and a router.
Buffering - (1) A protective material extruded directly on the fiber coating to protect it from the environment (tight-buffered); (2) extruding a tub
around the coated fiber to allow isolation of the fiber from stresses in the cable (buffer tubes).
Bus topology - A structure used in LANs whereby connection between devices is accomplished by connecting all devices to a single transmission
medium such as fiber or wire.
Byte - A sequence of eight adjacent bits representing one character or digit.
Cable Assembly - Optical fiber cable that has connectors installed on one or both ends. General use of these cable assemblies includes the
interconnection of the optical fiber cable systems and optoelectronic equipment. If connectors are attached to only one end of a cable, it is commo
known as a pigtail. If connectors are attached to both ends it is commonly called a jumper or patch cord.
Cable Bend Radius - Cable bend radius during installation infers that the cable is experiencing a tensile load (pulling force). Free bend infers a
smaller allowable bend radius since it is at a condition of no load (after installation).
Cladding - The material surrounding the core of an optical waveguide. The cladding must have a lower index of refraction to keep the light in the
core.
Client - In the ISO/OSI specifications, the client is referred to as the service requester.
CMIP (Common Management Information Services) - The network management protocol defined by OSI specifications. Used to convey CMIS defi
operations over an OSI network.
CSMA (Carrier Sense Multiple Access) - A medium access control technique for multiple access transmission media. A station wishing to transmit
senses the medium (heartbeat) and transmits only if the medium is idle.
CSMA/CD (Carrier Sense Multiple Access with Collision Detection) - A refinement of CSMA in which a station ceases transmission if it detects a
collision.
Coating - A material put on a fiber during the drawing process to protect it from the environment and handling.
Coaxial Cable - A form of cable that has an inner conductor and an outer grounded shield positioned around a common axis. There are two type
10Base2 (Thinnet) and 10Base5 (Thicknet).
Collision - A condition in which two packets are being transmitted over a medium at the same time, resulting in destruction of the data. Ethernet
quickly recovers and retransmissions of the data are made.
Composite Cable - A cable containing both fiber and copper media per article 770 of the National Electric Code (NEC).
Concentrator - Any communications device that allows a shared transmission medium to accommodate more date sources than there are channe
currently available with the transmission medium (example, a Hub).
Connector - A mechanical device used to align and join two fibers together to provide a means for attaching to and decoupling from a transmitte
receiver, or another fiber.
Core - The central region of an optical fiber through which light is transmitted.
DTE (Data Terminal Equipment) - A generic name for user-owned devices, PCs, or stations that attach to a network.
Decibel - Unit for measuring the relative strength of light signals. Normally expressed in dB, it is equal to one-tenth the common logarithm of the
ratio of the two levels. Expressed in dB when a power level is compared to a milliwatt.
Dielectric - Non-metallic and, therefore, nonconductive. Glass fibers are considered dielectric and therefore resistant to EMI/RFI interference. A
dielectric cable contains no metallic compounds.
Distribution cable - This cable is used in more "light-duty" applications, as the fiber is not individually padded. It uses furcation tubes to protect
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Distribution cable - This cable is used in more "light-duty" applications, as the fiber is not individually padded. It uses furcation tubes to protect
fiber as is breaks out to the connectors. It should not be used where heavy cables may lay across it (as in a packed cable tray).
Driver - A set of software routines used to control input and output from an operating system.
Ethernet - The LAN technology that uses CSMA/CD physical access method and 10, 100 or 1000 Mbps digital transmission. The 10Gig Standard i
committee.
FOIRL (Fiber Optic Inter Repeater Link) - A fiber optic signaling method based on the IEEE 802.3 standard governing fiber optics connecting two L
segments.
Ferrule - A mechanical fixture, generally a rigid tube, used to protect and align a fiber in a connector. Generally associated with fiber optic conne
and made of ceramic material.
Fiber - Thin filament of glass. An optical waveguide consisting of a core and a cladding that is capable of carrying information in the form of light
Fiber Optics - Light transmission through optical fibers for communication or signaling.
Fusion Splice - A permanent joint produced by the application of localized heat sufficient to fuse or melt the ends of the optical fiber, forming a
continuous single fiber.
Hub - The central switch in a twisted pair network. All nodes on the network are connected via point-to-point lines to the hub (Star Topology).
Hub MIB - A specification that defines an experimental portion of the Management Information Base for use with network managing protocols in
TCP/IP based internets.
IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) - A U.S. professional organization active in the creation, promotion, and support of
communications specifications and standards.
IEEE 802.3 - A physical layer standard that uses the CSMA/CD access method on a bus topology LAN.
IP (Internet Protocol) - A connectionless protocol that provides best-effort delivery of datagrams across an internet (the network layer protocol of
TCP/IP protocol suite). The BL-9000 series can prioritize packets for VoIP applications, a QoS (quality of Service implementation).
IPX (Internetwork Packet Exchange) - A network layer protocol developed by Novell, Inc. and used in NetWare implementations.
ISO (International Standards Organization) - An organization that promotes the development of standards for computers. Developers of the OSI
model.
Internet A collection of networks that are interconnected by linking devices such as bridges, routers, and gateways to operate as a single large
network.
Internetworking - Communication among devices across multiple networks.
Interface Layer - The layer in the Internet suite of protocols responsible for transmission on a single physical network.
Interoperability - The process whereby computers can operate interactively with each other across a network without data conversion or human
intervention.
Jumper - Optical fiber cable that has connectors installed on both ends. See Cable Assembly.
Kevlar - See Aramid Fiber. This is the same material as used in bullet-proof vests.
LAN (Local Area Network) - A network system that provides a relatively small area with highspeed data transmission at a low error rate. May inclu
PCs, printers, minicomputers, and mainframes linked by a transmission medium such as a coaxial cable, fiber, or twisted pair wiring.
LED (Light Emitting Diode) - A solid state device that radiates light a single frequency through plastic (POF) or glass.
Layer - A conceptual level of network processing functions defined by OSI model. Processing takes place in layers starting from the physical
transmission of data up through to the commands of an end-user (the ISO Seven Layer Model).
Learning Bridge - A bridge which automatically "learns" the topology of the LAN addresses of each node as it receives packets. Requires little or
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Learning Bridge - A bridge which automatically "learns" the topology of the LAN addresses of each node as it receives packets. Requires little or
setup at time of installation. These have largely been replaced by Switches and Routers.
Loose Tube Cable - Type of cable design whereby coated fibers are encased in buffer tubes offering excellent fiber protection and segregation.
MAC (Medium Access Control) - The control circuitry in a LAN that converts the protocols of the DTE to those required by the LAN.
MAN (Metropolitan Area Network) - A network whose facilities are restricted to individual populated areas. Distances of up to 50 miles are possibl
MAU (Medium Attachment Unit) - A device used to attach a processing node to a network at the physical level. An example is the transceiver used
attach devices to an Ethernet cable.
Media Converters - These are active (powered devices) that change LAN traffic from one media to another such as copper cable to fiber cable. T
do not induce delay in the transmission, and are "transparent" to the packet. See the BL-5270 and BL-270 series.
MIB (Management Information Base) - A collection of objects that can be accessed via a network management protocol.
Master Station - A station or network node that maintains direct control over other stations or nodes.
Medium - A physical conduit for data transmission, e.g., coaxial cable or radio waves.
MTP - This is a small form factor connector, and high density fiber solution using US Conec MT ferrules. Also referred to as MPO (multiple paralle
optics), 12 or more fibers per connector are in a small diameter cable.
Multifiber Cable - An optical fiber cable that contains two or more fibers.
Multimode Fiber - An optical waveguide in which light travels in multiple modes. Typical core/cladding size (measured in micrometers) is 50 or
62.5/125 .
Multiplex - Combining two or more signals into a single bit stream that can be individually recovered.
Multiport Repeater - A repeater that collects signals from one transmission channel and, after performing the standard repeater functions,
retransmits the signals to more than one new transmission channel.
Nanometer (nm) - A unit of measurement equal to one billionth of a meter; 10-9 meters. Typically used to express the wavelength of light, e.g.
or 1300 nm.
National Electric Code (NEC) - Defines building flammability requirements for indoor cables. Note: Local codes take precedence but may refer to
require compliance to the NEC.
NetWare - A network operating system implementation and control approach developed by Novell, Inc. that defines the network architecture and
software modules needed for network operation. Also the name of the network software.
Network - A communication system made up of various stations.
Network Layer - The layer in the OSI model that is responsible for ensuring that data passed to it from the transport layer is routed and delivere
through the network.
Network Redundancy - The state of having more connecting links than the minimum required to provide a connecting path between all nodes.
Network Topology - The physical and logical relationship of nodes in a network typically of either a star, ring, tree, or bus topology, or some hyb
combination thereof.
Node - A point where one or more functional units interconnect transmission lines.
Numerical Aperture (NA) - The number that expresses the light gathering ability of a fiber. Related to acceptance angle.
OSI (Open System Interconnection) - A seven layer model developed by ISO for standardizing data transmission functions so equipment made by
different manufacturers can be interconnected.
PVC - Abbreviation used to denote polyvinylchloride. A type of plastic material used for cable jacketing. Its typically used in flame-retardant cable
Packet - The basic unit of data transfer in LANs.
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Packet - The basic unit of data transfer in LANs.
Packet Switching - A method of transmitting massages through a communications network in which long messages are subdivided into short
packets.
Physical Layer - The lowest level in the OSI model, responsible for the transmission of bits across the medium.
Plenum - Its the air-handling space such as that found above drop-ceiling tiles or in raised floors. Also, plenum is a fire-code rating for indoor ca
Reflectance - Reflectance is the ratio of power reflected to the incident power at a connector junction or other component or device, usually
measured in decibels or dB. Reflectance is stated as a negative value, e.g. -30 dB. A connector that has a better reflectance performance would be
40 dB connector or a value less than -30 dB.
The terms return loss, back reflection, and reflectometry are also used synonymously in the industry to describe device reflections, but stated as
positive values.
Return Loss - See Reflectance.
Single-Mode Fiber - An optical waveguide (or fiber) in which the signal travels in one mode. The fiber has a small core diameter, typically 9 micron
Splicing - The permanent joining of bare fiber ends to another fiber. See Fusion Splice and Mechanical Splicing.
Splitters -. These are passive devices used to allow a non-intrusive way for network analyzers to gather information about a transmission line. Th
could be a Gigabit Fiber line or DS3 Coax connection. See Splitters.
Switch -In LAN terms, this is a star topology solution for connecting various devices on the LAN. It differs from a hub in that it creates (learns)
pathways from one device to another so all traffic is not seen by all devices. It can also run full duplex (simultaneous transmit and receive), buffe
high speed traffic to connect to lower speed (100Mb/s to 10Mb/s), and auto sense the different speeds. See the BL-9000 series.
Tight-Buffered Cable - Type of cable construction whereby each glass fiber is tightly buffered by protective thermoplastic coating to diameter of
micrometers. Increased buffering provides ease of handling and connectorization.
Transceivers - These devices are powered from a host. Legacy 10Mb/s LAN transceivers have a AUI on one side, and BNC, RJ45, or fiber connect
on the other. They provide a way to listen to the network for an opportunity to transmit and not collide with other packets. See BL-50.
UPC -(Ultra-polish Physical Contact) - It is typically used on simplex Single mode cable with SC connectors. It is used with high-end lasers or
receivers where there are concerns for back reflection. A convex surface is created in the polishing to minimize reflection.
VoIP -Voice over IP is a method of transmitting voice (digitally) in packets over LANs and WANs. See the BL-9000 series switches.
Wavelength - The distance between two successive points of an electromagnetic waveform, usually measured in nanometers (nm).
Wavelength Converters - These are active devices (powered) on a LAN to change Fiber optic wavelengths generally from Multimode Fiber (62.5
micron) to Single mode Fiber (9 micron) at various speeds such as 100Mb/s or 1000Mb/s. These are generally used to gain distance using Single
mode Fiber, up to 10Km or longer. See the BL-7270 series converters.
2002 CET PVT LTD Communication Electronics & Technology,

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10/15/03

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Fiber Optic Training Terms a Network Administrator Must Kn..

Fiber Optic Terms:

Fiber Optic Training Terms a Network Administrator Must Kn.. Page 2 of 18

Wavelength: A means of measuring light color. Expressed in nanometers (nm).

How Do Fiber Optics Work? A Quick Lesson In Optical Transmission

When to Use Fiber Optic Cabling - A Comparison to Copper

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Data Communications Terms

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Coax Bus, UTP Star, Fiber Star

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Coaxial Cabling Terms

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Premise Wiring Terms

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Work Area: Building space where occupants utilize telecommunications equipment.

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Video Display Terms

Attenuation: A reduction in the strength of a signal.

Chroma: The color portion of a video signal C.

Composite Sync: A combination of horizontal and vertical sync pulses.

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Luma: The brightness portion of a video signal (Y).

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2002 CET PVT LTD Communication Electronics & Technology,

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