What component is essential for connecting fiber-optic cables to end-user devices?

An optical transceiver is essential for connecting fiber-optic cables to end-user devices because it serves as the interface that converts electrical signals into optical signals and vice versa. This component is crucial for enabling data transmission over fiber-optic networks, as it ensures that the digital information can be effectively sent and received.

Optical transceivers typically include both a transmitter, which sends data as light pulses through the fiber, and a receiver, which captures the light and converts it back into electrical signals for processing by devices. Without an optical transceiver, the connection between the fiber-optic infrastructure and end-user equipment would not be possible, as there would be no means to facilitate the data conversion necessary for smooth communication.

In contrast, signal amplifiers, hub switches, and coaxial adapters do not fulfill the same role. While signal amplifiers boost the strength of optical signals over long distances, they are not used directly to connect devices. Hub switches manage data traffic within a network but do not physically connect to the optical fibers themselves. Coaxial adapters are designed for coaxial cable connections and are incompatible with fiber-optic systems. Thus, the optical transceiver is the critical component needed for establishing connections between fiber-optic cables and end-user devices.