What does "fiber management" refer to?

"Fiber management" specifically refers to the processes and systems that are put in place to organize and protect fiber optic cables during installation and throughout their operational life. This includes strategies for cable routing, securing fibers to prevent damage, preventing bends that could lead to signal loss, and ensuring that all fibers are easily accessible for maintenance or upgrades. Proper fiber management is crucial to maximizing the performance of the network, maintaining integrity, and simplifying any future modifications or repairs.

The other options, while relevant to aspects of fiber optic networks, do not encapsulate the primary focus of fiber management. Measuring performance pertains to assessing the function and efficiency of fiber systems rather than managing the physical fibers. Designing fiber optic networks refers to the planning phase of building the network, which involves distinct considerations that are separate from the ongoing management of the fibers once they are installed. Upgrading outdated systems deals with replacing or enhancing existing infrastructure, which is a specific action rather than a broader management concept.