How can overheating impact fiber optic cables?

Overheating can significantly affect the integrity and performance of fiber optic cables, primarily by causing materials degradation. Fiber optic cables are typically made of glass or plastic, both of which have temperature thresholds that, if exceeded, can lead to various forms of degradation such as softening, melting, or chemical changes in the materials. This degradation can create defects within the fiber, such as microbends or macrobends, which can scatter light and increase attenuation—resulting in a weaker signal or loss of data.

High temperatures can also affect the protective coverings and the surrounding components of the fiber, potentially leading to physical damage or increased environmental susceptibility. In contrast, the other options do not accurately reflect the consequences of overheating; there is no enhancement of signal transmission or increase in signal strength from overheating, and neglecting the effects of high temperatures would undermine the importance of maintaining optimal operating conditions for fiber optic systems.