Common Fibre Optic Termination Methods

Common Fibre Optic Termination Methods

There are several common fiber optic termination methods used to terminate fiber optic cables and connect them to various devices or components. Here are some of the most commonly used termination methods:

1. Mechanical Splice: Mechanical splicing involves aligning and securing the fiber ends using a mechanical splice connector or alignment sleeve. It does not require fusion or heat, making it a cost-effective and relatively simple termination method. Mechanical splices are typically used in temporary or quick installations and can be easily repositioned or removed.
2. Fusion Splice: Fusion splicing is a permanent and robust termination method that involves aligning and fusing the fiber ends together using a fusion splicer. The fusion splicer uses an electric arc to melt and fuse the fibers, creating a continuous optical path. Fusion splicing provides low insertion loss and high reliability, making it suitable for long-term or critical applications.
3. Field-Installable Connector: Field-installable connectors, also known as pre-polished connectors or mechanical connectors, allow on-site termination without the need for fusion splicing. These connectors have a mechanical design that allows quick and easy termination using simple tools. They often include a pre-polished ferrule and a mechanical splice mechanism. Field-installable connectors are commonly used for field termination or repair work.
4. Pigtail Splice: A pigtail splice involves fusion splicing a short fiber optic pigtail to the end of a fiber optic cable. The pigtail has a pre-fusion-spliced connector on one end, while the other end is left as a bare fiber or terminated with a connector. This method is often used when connecting cables to fiber optic patch panels or distribution frames.
5. Connectors: Connectors provide a standardized interface for connecting fiber optic cables to devices or other cables. Various types of connectors are available, such as SC (Subscriber Connector), LC (Lucent Connector), ST (Straight Tip), and FC (Ferrule Connector). Connectors require precise alignment and polishing of the fiber ends and are typically attached using epoxy or adhesive.
6. Splice-on Connector: Splice-on connectors combine the advantages of fusion splicing and field-installable connectors. They involve fusion splicing a pre-assembled connector directly to the fiber ends, eliminating the need for polishing and epoxy. Splice-on connectors provide low insertion loss and high reliability and are commonly used in field termination applications.
7. Hot Melt Connector: Hot melt connectors use a heat-activated adhesive to bond the fiber ends to the connector ferrule. The adhesive is heated and melted to create a secure and permanent connection. Hot melt connectors offer a reliable termination solution and are often used in industrial or harsh environment applications.

These are some of the common fiber optic termination methods. The choice of termination method depends on factors such as the specific application, installation requirements, performance demands, and available equipment. It’s important to follow proper termination procedures, adhere to industry standards, and ensure the quality and cleanliness of the terminated fiber ends for optimal performance.

Pigtail Splicing

Pigtail splicing is a fiber optic termination method that involves splicing a short length of fiber optic pigtail to the end of a fiber optic cable. The pigtail has a pre-fusion-spliced connector on one end, while the other end is left as a bare fiber or terminated with a connector. This method is commonly used when connecting fiber optic cables to fiber optic patch panels or distribution frames.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to pigtail splicing:

1. Prepare the fiber optic cable: Strip the outer jacket of the fiber optic cable to expose the individual fibers. Use fiber optic stripping tools to carefully remove the protective coatings without damaging the fiber.
2. Cleaving the fiber: Use a precision cleaver to cleave the fiber at a 90-degree angle. Proper cleaving is crucial to achieve a clean and flat fiber end face.
3. Prepare the pigtail: If the pigtail has a pre-polished connector, ensure that the connector end is clean and free from any contaminants. If the pigtail has a bare fiber end, strip the coating and cleave the fiber just like the cable.

No-Epoxy/ No-Polish (NENP) Connector

No-Epoxy/No-Polish (NENP) connectors, also known as no-epoxy/no-polish connectors or no-polish connectors, are a type of fiber optic connector that eliminates the need for epoxy adhesive and polishing steps during the termination process. NENP connectors offer a simpler and faster termination method compared to traditional connectors, reducing the time and complexity of connector installation in the field.

Epoxy-and-Polish

Epoxy-and-polish connectors, also known as epoxy connectors or epoxy-polish connectors, are a common type of fiber optic connectors that require the use of epoxy adhesive and polishing steps during the termination process. These connectors provide a reliable and robust connection by securely bonding the fiber to the connector ferrule and achieving a precise, polished fiber end face.
Here’s an overview of the epoxy-and-polish connector termination process:

1. Strip the cable: Begin by stripping the outer jacket of the fiber optic cable to expose the individual fibers. Use fiber optic stripping tools to carefully remove the protective coatings, exposing the bare fibers.
2. Clean the fiber: Thoroughly clean the bare fiber using lint-free wipes and an approved fiber optic cleaning solution. Proper cleaning ensures that the fiber surface is free from contaminants and ready for termination.
3. Cleaving the fiber: Use a precision cleaver to cleave the fiber at a 90-degree angle. A clean and flat fiber end face is crucial for achieving a low-loss connection.
4. Apply epoxy adhesive: Apply a small amount of epoxy adhesive to the connector ferrule or inside the connector body. The epoxy helps bond the fiber to the connector and provides mechanical stability.

Things to Consider

When working with epoxy-and-polish connectors or any fiber optic termination method, there are several important factors to consider. These include:

1. Connector Type: Select the appropriate connector type for your specific application. Common connector types include SC, LC, ST, and FC, among others. Consider the connector’s compatibility with your equipment and the requirements of the fiber optic system.
2. Fiber Type: Different fiber types have specific handling and termination requirements. Ensure that the connector and termination process are compatible with the fiber type being used, such as single-mode or multi-mode fiber.
3. Epoxy Selection: Choose a high-quality epoxy adhesive that is suitable for fiber optic applications. Consider factors such as curing time, compatibility with the connector material, and the required temperature or light source for curing.
4. Cleaving Accuracy: Accurate and precise cleaving of the fiber is crucial for achieving low-loss connections. Use a reliable cleaving tool and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for proper cleaving techniques.
5. Polishing Quality: The quality of the connector polish greatly affects the optical performance of the termination. Ensure that the polishing process is performed correctly, using appropriate polishing equipment and techniques. Proper control of pressure, time, and polishing films or lapping pads is essential.
6. Cleanliness: Maintaining cleanliness throughout the termination process is vital. Use lint-free wipes, cleaning solutions, and tools specifically designed for fiber optic cleaning to remove any contaminants from the fiber and connector surfaces. Contaminants can negatively impact the connection’s performance.
7. Testing and Verification: Perform thorough testing and verification of the terminated connectors using appropriate test equipment. Use optical power meters, sources, OTDRs, or other testing tools to measure insertion loss, reflectance, and other parameters to ensure the termination meets the required specifications.