Final answer:
The optical fiber connector is the component used to connect the optical fiber to a transmitter or receiver, ensuring signal integrity through precise alignment according to the principle of total internal reflection.
Step-by-step explanation:
The component that allows the optical fiber to be mated to the transmitter or receiver is typically referred to as an optical fiber connector. This component is crucial for connecting the bare ends of an optical fiber to a transmitter or receiver, ensuring a precise alignment so that light signals can pass efficiently with minimal loss.
The connector includes a ferrule, which holds the fiber in place, and can be made of ceramic, metal, or high-quality plastic. It aligns the fiber core to the optical source or detector for proper light transmission, leveraging the principle of total internal reflection, which is fundamental in fiber optics.
Quality connectors maintain the integrity of the light path, minimizing signal loss and preventing light from being transmitted between fibers in a bundle.