Glossary

A generic name for any cross-connect block where the individual wires in UTP are placed into a terminal groove and

A broad class of polymers that are noted for good abrasion and solvent resistance. Not as common as PVC (polyvinyl chloride).

Technology used by frame relay (as well as other technologies like X.25 and ATM) that allows virtual data circuits to be set up between the sender and receiver over a packet-switched network.

The modulation of two separate signals onto carriers at a single frequency and kept separate by having the two signals 90 degrees out of phase.

Data prioritization at the Network layer of the OSI model. QoS results in guaranteed throughput rates.

An integrated circuit (IC) that measures received optical energy and interprets each voltage pulse as a binary 1 or 0.

Inaccuracies in analog to digital conversion caused by the inability of a digital value to match an analog value precisely. Quantizing error is reduced as the number of bits used in a digital sample increases, since more bits allow greater detail in expressing a value.

A basic unit, usually used in reference to energy. A quantum of light is called a photon.

The encoding method used by 100VG-AnyLAN, in which the 100Mbps signal is divided into four 25Mbps channels and then transmitted over different pairs of a cable. Category 3 cable transmits one channel on each of four pairs.

Symbol for resistance.

Right Angled connector.

These connectors are shaped to sit at a 90 degree angle rather then a straight 180 degree.

Any channel or structure used in a building to support and guide electrical and optical fiber wires or cables. Raceways may be metallic or nonmetallic and may totally or partially enclose the wiring (e.g., conduit, cable trough, cellular floor, electrical metallic tubing, sleeves, slots, under-floor raceways, surface raceways, lighting fixture raceways, wireways, busways, auxiliary gutters, and ventilated flexible cableways). See also pathway.

A frame-like structure where patch panels, switches, and other network equipment are installed. The typical dimension is 19 inches.

The refractive index measured in a fiber as a function of the distance from the axial core or center.

Radiant flux is the measured amount of energy on a surface per unit time.