How does a fusion splicer work?
Before optical fibers can be successfully fusion-spliced, they need to be carefully stripped of their outer jackets and polymer coating, thoroughly cleaned, and then precisely cleaved to form smooth, perpendicular end faces. Once all of this has been completed, each fiber is placed into a holder in the splicers enclosure. From this point on, the fiber optic fusion splicer takes over the rest of the process, which involves 3 steps: Alignment: Using small, precise motors, the fusion splicer makes minute adjustments to the fibers positions until theyre properly aligned, so the finished splice will be as seamless and attenuation-free as possible. During the alignment process, the fiber optic technician is able to view the fiber alignment, thanks to magnification by optical power meter, video camera, or viewing scope. Impurity Burn-Off: Since the slightest trace of dust or other impurities can wreak havoc on a splices ability to transmit optical signals, you can never be too clean when it c
