Certified Fiber Optics Practice Exam

Single mode terminations are typically performed with what type of components?

1. Pigtails

2. Patch cords

3. Adapters

4. Connectors

The correct answer is: Pigtails

Single mode terminations are typically performed with pigtails, which are short lengths of fiber that are pre-terminated with a connector on one end and are usually spliced to a longer length of fiber in a fiber optic cable. This method is commonly used in single mode fiber systems because it maintains the integrity of the single mode fiber's light transmission characteristics, minimizing loss and ensuring optimal performance. Pigtails allow for the quick and efficient connection of fibers to optical distribution frames or other equipment, making them particularly useful in permanent installations, where reliability and splicing precision are critical. The pre-terminated end ensures that the connection can be done with consistent quality, which is essential for maintaining the low loss characteristics of single mode fibers. In contrast, patch cords are typically used for temporary connections, adapters serve to join different types of connectors without any termination, and connectors are the endpoints attached to patches or systems but do not inherently pertain to the act of terminating a fiber lead into a system. Thus, pigtails are the preferred solution for single mode fiber termination due to their specialized design for this purpose.