The termination of individual fibers begins with removal of the cable sheath using _____.

The termination of individual fibers indeed begins with the removal of the cable sheath, which requires the use of the proper stripping tool. Stripping tools are specifically designed to remove the outer protective layers of fiber optic cables without damaging the delicate fibers inside. These tools allow for precision in the stripping process, ensuring that the insulation is cleanly cut away and that the fibers remain intact and undamaged, which is critical for maintaining signal integrity.

In contrast, while a cutting tool is useful for various tasks in fiber optics, it is not specifically designed for stripping the sheath and could potentially cause harm to the fibers. A manual soldering iron is unrelated to the process of stripping fibers, as it is used for joining connections rather than preparation. A fiber cleaver is utilized for precisely cutting the fiber itself at the end of the termination process, focusing on achieving a clean cut for optimal connection, rather than removing the sheath at the beginning.