What kind of cable does the term "tight-buffered" refer to in fiber optics?

The term "tight-buffered" in fiber optics specifically refers to a type of cable design where each individual fiber is coated with a thick protective layer, often made of a polymer material. This tight buffering provides greater protection to the fiber itself, making it suitable for indoor applications.

Distribution cables are indeed characterized by their use of tight-buffered fibers. These cables are designed to be used in more controlled environments where they can be terminated directly at equipment or work areas without the need for additional protection that loose-tube cables would require. This feature makes distribution cables highly flexible and easier to handle during installation, as the fibers can be bent and routed in various pathways without risking damage.

In contrast, loose-tube cables, for instance, contain fibers that are housed in a tube which allows for movement and therefore, thermal expansion without impacting the fibers directly. This design is essential for outdoor applications where environmental factors are more variable. But in this context, it is clear that tight-buffered fibers align more closely with the characteristics of distribution cables, supporting the answer provided.