What role does a relay station play in fiber optic networks?

A relay station in fiber optic networks serves a crucial function by regenerating the optical signal for long-distance transmission. In fiber optics, signals can deteriorate over extended distances due to attenuation and dispersion. A relay station, equipped with optical amplifiers or repeaters, ensures that the quality of the light signal is maintained by amplifying it, effectively allowing the signal to extend its reach without losing clarity or integrity. This regenerative process is vital for maintaining the performance of the network, especially in large-scale installations where signals must travel across vast distances.

The other choices illustrate different concepts related to fiber optics but do not accurately describe the primary function of a relay station. For instance, while managing the routing of signals is essential in network performance, it is typically handled by switches and routers rather than relay stations. Storing data is not a function of relay stations, as they are primarily focused on signal regeneration rather than data storage. Additionally, converting optical signals into electrical signals is performed by different components in the network, such as optical-to-electrical converters, and is not the role of relay stations designed specifically for signal regeneration.