How does temperature affect fiber optic cables?

Temperature has a significant impact on fiber optic cables and can cause thermal stress, which may affect signal quality. As the temperature changes, the physical properties of the fiber optic material can also change. This thermal expansion or contraction can lead to micro-bends or macrobends in the fiber, potentially leading to increased signal loss or degradation of the light signal being transmitted.

High temperatures might also affect the optical characteristics of the fiber, such as attenuation, which refers to the reduction in signal strength. Furthermore, extreme temperatures can influence the performance of connectors and splices, resulting in misalignment and increased insertion losses.

In contrast, other choices suggest that temperature has no effect or might even enhance performance, which goes against the understanding of material science and the specific parameters of optical fibers. Thus, the assertion that temperature may cause thermal stress and impact signal quality is accurate and highlights a critical consideration in the installation and maintenance of fiber optic systems.