Which device converts optical signals into component signals such as voice, audio, video, and data?

The Optical Network Terminal (ONT) is a critical component in fiber-optic communication systems, specifically designed to interface between the optical signals transmitted over fiber and the electronic signals used by various devices in homes and businesses. The ONT receives optical signals and converts them into component signals, which can include voice, audio, video, and data, making it essential for providing Internet, telephone, and television services through fiber-optic networks.

This function allows users to access different types of services seamlessly, leveraging the high-speed capabilities of fiber optics. The ONT essentially acts as a bridge, ensuring that the high-frequency, light-based signals are transformed into a format that can be used by standard electronic devices, such as routers and televisions.

In contrast, the other options do not perform this specific conversion function. While an Optical Network Switch directs optical signals but does not convert them to component signals, a Multiplexer combines multiple signals into one for transmission over a medium, and a Signal Converter typically refers to devices that may convert one type of electronic signal to another, but not necessarily from optical to electronic directly. Thus, the ONT is uniquely suited for this specific task within fiber-optic systems.