Certified Fiber Optics Practice Exam

In fiber optics, what does the term 'concentricity' refer to in a connector?

1. Alignment of the connector

2. Measurement of fiber core thickness

3. Air gap tolerance

4. Quality of fiber coating

The correct answer is: Alignment of the connector

In the context of fiber optics, 'concentricity' refers specifically to the alignment of the connector. This term indicates how well the core of the fiber is aligned with the connector's ferrule and the outer dimensions of the connector assembly. Proper concentricity is crucial as it ensures minimal signal loss during transmission, enhancing overall performance and reliability. Misalignment can lead to increased splice loss or reflections that compromise signal quality. The importance of concentricity stems from the need for proper light coupling between the fiber core and the optoelectronic devices. When the fibers are not perfectly aligned, the light entering the fiber can be dispersed, leading to inefficiencies in the system. The other options pertain to different aspects of fiber optics. For instance, measuring core thickness would relate to the physical dimensions of the fiber rather than its alignment. Air gap tolerance is concerned with acceptable spaces between components that could affect signal integrity, while the quality of fiber coating deals with the protective layer of the fiber, impacting durability and environmental resistance, but not the alignment of the connector itself.