Fiber to the x or fiber in the loop is a generic term for any broadband network architecture using optical fiber to provide all or part of the local loop used for last mile telecommunications. As fiber optic cables are able to carry much more data than copper cables, especially over long distances, copper telephone networks built in the 20th century are being replaced by fiber.
Fiber-optic cable being pulled underneath the streets of New York City
An optical fiber jack (cover removed) in a residence with FTTH service
This cable is outdoor-grade. Approximate diameters: Outer sheath: 5 mm, outer white paper wrapper: ⌀2.5 mm, inner white plastic sheath: ⌀890 μm, blue sheath: ⌀250 μm, optical fiber: ⌀150 μm
Inside an FTTN or FTTC fiber cabinet. The left side contains the fiber and a DSLAM, and the right side contains the copper and punch down blocks for a form of DSL such as VDSL
Hybrid fiber-coaxial (HFC) is a broadband telecommunications network that combines optical fiber and coaxial cable. It has been commonly employed globally by cable television operators since the early 1990s.
An optical node with a fiber splice case (black)
A trunk amplifier
A distribution amplifier (line extender)
A series of taps (servicing multiple rooms in a hotel) from a distribution line or "trunk" with terminators on unused ports
