Which component is essential for absorbing external shocks to fiber optic cables?

The jacket is the component that plays a crucial role in absorbing external shocks to fiber optic cables. It serves as the outer protection layer that safeguards the more fragile inner structures of the cable, which include the core and cladding. The jacket is typically made from durable materials that provide resistance against physical impacts, environmental factors, and other potential sources of damage. This protective covering is vital for maintaining the integrity and performance of the fiber optic cable, especially in installations where the cables are subject to bending, crushing, or abrasion.

The core, while critical for the transmission of light signals, is not designed for shock absorption; it is the thin glass or plastic center through which light travels. Cladding surrounds the core and reflects light back into it to maintain the signal, but it too does not provide external protection against shocks. Connectors are necessary for linking fibers together but do not serve a protective function in terms of external impacts. Hence, the jacket is key in ensuring the longevity and reliability of fiber optic installations by absorbing shocks and protecting the delicate internal components.