What light source is commonly used for fiber cables?

The optical transmitter is the correct choice because it is specifically designed to convert electrical signals into optical signals, which are then transmitted through fiber optic cables. This process is essential in fiber optics technology, as it enables the communication of data over long distances with minimal loss and interference.

Optical transmitters typically utilize light sources such as lasers or light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to generate the light signals that travel through the fiber. The efficiency and speed of these devices make them ideal for high-bandwidth applications, which is one of the main advantages of using fiber optic cables in networking.

Other options serve different functions; for instance, a radio transmitter is used for radio frequency communications, not for transmitting light through fiber optics. Fiber optic converters are devices that interface fiber optic signals with electrical signals but don’t serve as the primary light source. Meanwhile, silicon photodiodes are detectors that convert light signals back into electrical signals, not sources of light themselves. Thus, the role of an optical transmitter as the light source in fiber optic systems is crucial for effective data transmission.