The primary way to joint fiber optic cable is through a process called fusion splicing.
Fusion splicing involves precisely aligning two fiber ends and then fusing them together using heat. Here's a simplified overview of the process:
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Preparation:
- Strip the outer jacket: Carefully remove the outer protective layers of the fiber optic cable to expose the bare fiber.
- Clean the fiber: Use a lint-free wipe and appropriate cleaning solution (typically isopropyl alcohol) to remove any dirt, dust, or contaminants from the fiber. This is crucial for a clean and low-loss splice.
- Cleave the fiber: Use a precision fiber cleaver to create a perfectly flat and perpendicular end-face on each fiber. A good cleave is essential for a successful splice. This ensures proper alignment and minimal signal loss.
- Don't forget the protective sleeve: Before starting any of the above, ensure you slide the protective sleeve over one of the fibers. This sleeve will protect the finished splice.
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Splicing:
- Load fibers into the fusion splicer: Carefully place the prepared fiber ends into the fusion splicer. The splicer will precisely align the fibers.
- Fusion process: The fusion splicer uses an electric arc to heat and melt the ends of the fibers, fusing them together.
- Quality check: The fusion splicer typically performs an automatic loss estimation and may provide an image of the splice for visual inspection.
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Protection:
- Apply the protective sleeve: Slide the protective sleeve over the spliced area.
- Heat shrink the sleeve: Place the spliced fiber with the sleeve into the heater of the fusion splicer. The heater shrinks the sleeve, providing mechanical strength and environmental protection to the splice.
Key Considerations:
- Proper tools are essential: You'll need a fusion splicer, fiber cleaver, fiber stripper, lint-free wipes, and cleaning solution.
- Cleanliness is paramount: Contamination can significantly degrade splice performance.
- Skill and training are required: Achieving consistently low-loss splices requires practice and understanding of the equipment and process.
Alternatives to Fusion Splicing:
While fusion splicing is the most common and reliable method, mechanical splicing offers an alternative. Mechanical splices align the fiber ends using mechanical fixtures, but they generally have higher losses and are less reliable than fusion splices.
