1. Bandwidth = Indicates the transmission capacity of media. For copper cables, bandwidth is defined using signal frequency and specified in hertz (Hz). For optical fiber, wavelength in nanometers (nm) defines bandwidth. Also refers to the amount of data that can be sent through a given channel and is measured in bits per second.
2. Attenuation = A general term indicating a decrease in power (loss of signal) from one point to another. This loss can be a loss of electrical signal or light strength. In optical fibers, it is measured in decibels per kilometer (dB/km) at a specified wavelength. The loss is measured as a ratio of input power to output power. Attenuation is caused by poor-quality connections, defects in the cable, and loss due to heat. The lower the attenuation value, the better. Attenuation is the opposite of gain. See Chapter 1 for additional information on attenuation and the use of decibels.
3. Application = (1) A program running on a computer. (2) A system, the transmission method of which is supported by telecom-munications cabling, such as 100Base-TX Ethernet, or digital voice.
4. dark fiber = An unused fiber; a fiber carrying no light. Common when extra fiber capacity is installed.
5. Riser = (1) A designation for a type of cable run between floors Fire-code rating for indoor cable that is certified to pass through the vertical shaft from floor to floor. (2) A space for indoor cables that allow cables to pass between floors, normally a vertical shaft or space.
6. Ripcord = A length of string built into optical fiber cables that is pulled to split the outer jacket of the cable without using a blade.
7. Core = The central part of a single optical fiber in which the light signal is transmitted. Common core sizes are 8.3 microns, 50 microns, and 62.5 microns. The core is sur-rounded by a cladding that has a higher refractive index that keeps the light inside the core. The core is typically made of glass or plastic.
8. Crosstalk = The coupling or transfer of...