When a repeater is used to link dissimilar media, it is called a _____.

The term "media converter" accurately describes a device that facilitates communication between dissimilar media types, such as converting electrical signals from twisted pair cables to optical signals for fiber optic cables. This is essential in networking, where different segments of a network might use different transmission mediums. A media converter ensures that the data can be transmitted effectively between these incompatible mediums by converting the signals appropriately, thus allowing for seamless communication across a network.

In contrast, a signal amplifier primarily boosts signal strength but does not change the medium. A frequency modulator alters the frequency of a carrier signal for transmission, which is unrelated to bridging different media. A network switch connects multiple devices within the same network segment but does not serve to link differing media types.