Optical fiber fast connector/cold connection skills

Optical fiber fast connectors, also known as cold connectors, are becoming increasingly popular due to their ease of use and quick installation. Unlike traditional fiber connectors that require epoxy and polishing, fast connectors use a mechanical splice to join the fibers. In this article, we will discuss the skills and techniques needed to install optical fiber fast connectors.

Preparation

Before starting the installation process, it is essential to prepare the necessary tools and materials. The basic tools required for installing optical fiber fast connectors include:

Fiber stripping tool

Fiber cleaver

Optical power meter

Visual fault locator

Alcohol swabs

Fast connectors

Fiber Stripping

The first step in installing a fast connector is to strip the protective coating from the fiber optic cable. This can be done using a fiber stripping tool, which is designed to remove the protective coating without damaging the fiber. It is essential to strip the fiber cleanly and evenly, leaving the bare fiber exposed.

Fiber Cleaving

Once the fiber has been stripped, the next step is to cleave the fiber. This involves cutting the fiber cleanly and evenly to ensure a smooth surface for the splice. A fiber cleaver is used for this process, and it is essential to ensure that the cleaver is calibrated correctly for the specific fiber type and diameter.

Splicing

The splicing process involves joining the two fibers together using a mechanical splice. The fast connector has a pre-installed mechanical splice that is used to join the fibers. The splice is inserted into the connector, and the two fibers are aligned using the connector's alignment mechanism.

Inspection and Testing

Once the fibers are joined, it is essential to inspect and test the connection to ensure that it is working correctly. This can be done using an optical power meter and a visual fault locator. The optical power meter measures the amount of light transmitted through the fiber, while the visual fault locator is used to check for any visible faults in the fiber.

Tips and Techniques for Installing Optical Fiber Fast Connectors

Cleanliness

Optical fiber fast connectors are sensitive to contamination, so it is essential to ensure that the fiber and connector are clean before splicing. Any dirt or dust on the fiber can cause attenuation or reflection, which can affect the performance of the connection.

Cleaving

The quality of the cleave is critical to the performance of the connection. It is essential to ensure that the cleaver is calibrated correctly and that the cleave is clean and even. Uneven or damaged cleaves can cause attenuation or reflection, affecting the performance of the connection.

Alignment

The alignment of the two fibers is critical to the performance of the connection. It is essential to ensure that the fibers are aligned correctly using the connector's alignment mechanism. The connector should be inserted into the splicing tool gently to avoid any misalignment.

Testing

Testing the connection is essential to ensure that it is working correctly. It is essential to use an optical power meter and a visual fault locator to check the performance of the connection. The testing should be done before and after splicing to ensure that the connection is working correctly.

Conclusion

Optical fiber fast connectors are an excellent alternative to traditional fiber connectors due to their ease of use and quick installation. Installing a fast connector requires specific skills and techniques, including fiber stripping, fiber cleaving, splicing, and testing. It is essential to prepare the necessary tools and materials, maintain cleanliness, ensure proper cleaving and alignment, and test the connection to ensure its performance. With the right skills and techniques, anyone can install optical fiber fast connectors and enjoy the benefits of a reliable fiber optic connection.