What is an erbium-doped fiber amplifier (EDFA) used for in fiber-optic networks?

An erbium-doped fiber amplifier (EDFA) is used primarily to amplify light signals in fiber-optic networks, enabling the transmission of data over longer distances without significant loss of signal quality. As optical signals travel through fiber cables, they can weaken due to various factors such as absorption and scattering. The EDFA addresses this issue by using the erbium ions doped into the fiber, which are stimulated by a pump laser to amplify the light signals that pass through.

By effectively boosting the strength of the light signals, an EDFA allows for greater distance coverage and enhances the overall performance of fiber-optic communication systems. This capability is essential in modern telecommunications networks, where high data rates and long transmission distances are increasingly demanded.

The other options, while related to fiber-optic technologies, do not accurately describe the primary function of an EDFA. Minimizing signal loss, converting electric signals to light, and splitting signals pertain to different equipment or technologies utilized in fiber-optic networks.