![]() If you’re using an older unit, you may have to use epoxy instead of an index matching gel to align the fibers properly. The index matching gel inside the equipment will do the heavy lifting for you, linking the light in the ends of your cables. In essence, you just have to precisely position the fiber ends together in the mechanical splice unit. Unlike fusion splicing, you don’t need to use heat to join the fibers. Use the cleaver carefully to create a small, clean cut on the cables with ends perpendicular to the fiber axis. Step #2 – Cleave the fibersĪfter stripping your fiber optic cables, the next step is to break your cables using a fiber cleaver. You’ll know if it’s done right when you see the bare fiber in the section where the cable was stripped. The first step is to neatly strip the fibers of its protective coatings, jackets, tubes, strength members, etc, leaving nothing but the bare fiber cores. ![]() Now that you’re aware of what mechanical splicing is, let’s take a look at the basic steps involved in mechanical splicing. Fusion splicing, though costlier, is far more popular as it provides the lowest insertion loss, back reflection, and the strongest joint between the fibers. (Learn more about types of fiber optic cables and other fiber optic essentials here.)Īll things considered, mechanical splicing works well only for quick restoration and temporary connections where a somewhat notable loss is acceptable. As outlined earlier, fusion splicing produces much lower loss and back reflection than mechanical splicing, so if you need a permanent joint with minimal attenuation, fusion splicing is the heftier investment you’re looking at.Īlso, fusion splices are generally used with single-mode fiber while mechanical splices work with both single and multi-mode fiber. Talking about performance, the decision comes down to the project you are working on. Whereas the cost per splice for fusion splicing is lower but the initial investment is much higher, starting at ten times higher than mechanical splicing, based on performance requirements and features of the fusion splicing machine used. Mechanical splicing has a low initial investment but costs more per splice. One major reason for choosing a particular method over the other is budget. ![]() For example, it’s used in long high data rate connection lines that, once installed, are unlikely to be modified. The gel must have a similar refractive index to enhance the light transmission across the joint, with minimal back reflection.įusion splicing produces a reliable joint with low insertion loss and nearly zero back reflection when done correctly, and thus, is more widely used than mechanical splicing. In this process, the technician must use an alignment device along with an index matching gel. A mechanical splice is designed to hold two fiber cables in a way that allows light to pass through seamlessly, with a typical loss of around 0.3 dB or 10%. This fiber optic splicing technique involves the precise alignment of two fiber optic cables, held in place by a self-contained assembly rather than a permanent bond. This would help determine which technique will work best for your company’s long-term goals and fit your performance and budget requirements. As of now, fiber optic splicing can be carried out using one of two methods: fusion splicing and mechanical splicing.īefore moving forward with a fiber optic installation, it is vital for integrators to have a fairly good understanding of both methods. ![]() With fiber-optic connections becoming increasingly mainstream, the ability to accurately perform fiber optic splicing is becoming more and more important. The Two Main Methods of Fiber Optic Splicing However, in reality, fiber optic splices are inherently necessary and always used when designing, installing, and maintaining a reliable communications network. In an ideal world, a fiber optic installation would consist of long, continuous cable runs from one place to another. Some companies do offer fiber optic splices that can be disconnected at will, however, they are typically not meant for frequent connection and disconnection. Moreover, splicing renders a permanent or relatively permanent connection between two fiber optic cables. Respondents will be eligible to win a $100 Amazon Help CE Pro conduct its annual gauge on the outlook for business by taking a few minutes to complete our 2023 State of the Industry Survey. What does 2023 hold for your custom installation business?
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