What is a common consequence of polarity reversal in fiber optics?

Polarity reversal in fiber optics refers to the incorrect arrangement of the transmitting and receiving fibers. When the polarity is reversed, the light signals sent from the transmitter will not be correctly aligned with the receiver fibers. This misalignment can lead to significant signal loss as the light may not couple efficiently into the receiving fiber. In many cases, a complete failure to receive the intended signal can occur, which effectively disrupts communication.

Therefore, the most common consequence of polarity reversal is signal loss or failure, which directly impacts the performance and reliability of the fiber optic communication system. Ensuring correct polarity is crucial for maintaining the integrity of data transmission in fiber optic installations.