When dealing with fiber optic networks, network administrators need be conversant in a number of concepts linked to network documentation and polarity management, such as:
Keying Mechanism: A feature of fiber optic connections that permits constant polarity configurations by guaranteeing correct alignment and orientation during connection.
Patch Cord: A fiber optic cable with a certain polarity configuration that is used to connect network devices or patch panels in order to ensure end-to-end continuity.
Optical Time-Domain Reflectometer (OTDR): A diagnostic instrument for fiber optic network analysis and troubleshooting that can be used to confirm polarity alignment and find errors or irregularities.
TIA/EIA-568: Industry standards that control the layout, documentation, and construction of fiber optic networks and other structured cabling systems, guaranteeing uniformity and compatibility among installations.