View source for Operating Fusion Splicers and Preparing the Fiber

== Fusion Splicing - The Basics ==
When connecting bare fiber, Fusion Splicing is the most commonly used approach. Fusion Splicing has the least loss and reflectance and also provides the strongest joint of the different connectorizing methods. A Fusion Splicer connects two ends of a Fiber by virtue of welding, using an electrical arc.
Each Fusion Splicer works slightly different, this page provides an overview on the different Splicers available and the steps which they have in common.
=== The S185 Series FUSION SPLICER ===
==== Step 1: Preparing the Fiber ====
This step is similar to other connectorizing methods and involves cleaning, stripping and cleaving (these steps are explained [[Fiber_Optics|here]]. It is important to notice that a precision cleaving device is needed to get a good Splice. Once the two bare fiber ends are cleaned, stripped and cleaved, put a shrinking sleeve on one of the ends and push it beyond the bare part.
[[File:IMG 1448.JPEG|thumb|right|Shrinking sleeve on Fiber end]]