Glossary

The calculation of the EMB from the optical fiber

The value of bandwidth used in the IEEE 802.3ae model that corresponds to the fiber specification.

A rack with a standard dimension per EIA. See also 19-inch racks.

The ability of a system to minimize radiated emissions and maximize immunity from external noise sources.

The combined electric and magnetic field caused by electron motion in conductors.

Protection from the interfering or damaging effects of electromagnetic radiation such as radio waves or microwaves.

Electrical noise generated in copper conductors when electromagnetic fields induce currents. Copper cables, motors, machinery, and other equipment that uses electricity may generate EMI. Copper-based network cabling and equipment are susceptible to EMI and also emit EMI, which results in degradation of the signal. Fiber-optic cables are desirable in environments that have high EMI because they are not susceptible to the effects of EMI.

An alliance of manufacturers and users that establishes standards and publishes test methodologies. The EIA (with the TIA and ANSI) helped to publish the ANSI/ TIA/EIA-568-B cabling standard.

The transfer of energy by means of a varying electrostatic field. Also referred to as capacitive coupling.

A problem that exists when two items with dissimilar static electrical charges are brought together. The static electricity jumps to the item with lower electrical charge, which causes ESD; ESD can damage electrical and computer components.

A source of optical power.

Converting analog data into digital data by combining timing and data information into a synchronized stream of signals. Encoding is accomplished by representing digital 1s and 0s through combining high- and low signal voltage or light states.

The quality of a fiber

(1) The distance between the ends of two joined fibers. The end separation is important because the degree of separation causes an extrinsic loss, depending on the configuration of the connection. (2) The separation of optical fiber ends, usually taking place in a mechanical splice or between two connectors.

The optical signal loss experienced between the transmitter and the detector due to fiber quality, splices, connectors, and bends.