Fusion splicers fuse two fiber optic cables together into a single long fiber using an electric arc. The end result is a fusion splice, two permanently joined glass fibers from end to end with very little loss, so that optical light signals can pass through from one fiber to the other. The majority of fusion splicers are automated single fiber fusion splicers and ribbon fusion splicers. ATEC carries both models. These fiber splicing machines provide displays which allow technicians to visually inspect the fusion splice to identify as a good or bad splice. Determination of splice quality will depend on if a flaw is detected and what type, if it does not affect the optical transmission.
A fusion splicer is essential for creating long lengths of cable but can only provide an estimate of the splice loss. To verify splice loss, an OTDR, or Optical Time Domain Reflectometer, is necessary. OTDRs fulfill Tier 2 certification testing and are used for analyzing the quality of fiber cabling and troubleshooting faults in the fiber.
At Advanced Test Equipment Rentals, we supply a variety of fusion splicers. An ATEC representative can help you select the best fiber optic splicing machine that is most accurate and efficient for your needs. Top manufacturers are Fujikura (also AFL Telecommunications in North America) and Sumitomo.