How Should I Terminate My Fiber Optic Cable

In today’s day and age, we are more connected than ever. And we expect it.
At the work place we are attending virtual trainings on the latest technologies and we are connecting across the globe with our colleagues in real-time meetings – with just the click of a button.
When we leave work, we are going home using app-based scooters and bicycles that only needs the swipe of a cell phone. And if taking a highway home, you no longer search for change at a toll booth but instead you drive through a toll lane that scans and charges your account as you drive underneath it.
And it doesn’t stop at home. We are answering emails, while streaming Ultra HD video on our smart TV’s, all while having the latest super hero flick downloading on our tablet to watch on an upcoming business trip.
With the ever-increasing demand for the bandwidth needed to meet today’s expectations; how we design, install, and maintain our fiber optic networks must evolve with that same demand. In particular, the methods used to terminate, or connect, the ends of our fiber optic networks has evolved in the past 20 years quite drastically; starting with hand-polishing a ferrule with films and epoxies to achieve a finished termination. Hand epoxy polishing gave you a good, epoxy-cured connection but can be time consuming, and it took certain skill sets to achieve a good ferrule polish. Epoxy terminations lead to Mechanical Terminations which is the mechanical mating of fibers with the use of specific hand tools, v-groove alignment, and index matching gel to bridge the air gap between fibers. The benefits of using a factory-polished ferrule and the mechanical termination offered a time saving from traditional hand-polishing and allowed even some of the most novice of technicians the ability of putting a quality connector on in the field. As optical fusion splice machines and fusion splicing technology improved, technicians can now fusion splice a pigtail, a length of cable factory terminated on a single end, to a field cable that has been newly pulled or an old cable that needs to be repaired.
More importantly than any convenience of use though, is the performance of the termination. To enjoy some of the luxuries of connectivity mentioned before, we need a stronger optical signal to go farther than ever. Insertion Loss (IL) is a measurement of the optical power that is lost through a mated pair in decibels (dB). To compare the performance in IL of the three main termination methods, hand epoxy can typically range from .20dB – .75dB depending on installer. A typical mechanical style termination IL is 0.50dB, with loss accumulating from both the air gap of a mated pair, and the alignment of the fiber stub to your field fiber. Fusion splicing a pigtail or connector, is going to give your lowest loss of light through termination. Average fusion splice termination IL is .02dB – .05dB of loss through the splice, for a total of typical .20dB IL from your termination. By fusion splicing a connector in your network you are performing that much better in regards of your signal getting from source to receive.
Another important factor of your termination is how much light it reflects, you do not want your termination to be reflective. Reflectance is measured by how much light (dB) is returned back up the link, and the lower the number (farthest from 0) the better. The ferrule of your termination is the main factor in reflectance, and is categorized in 3 main stages: Physical Contact (PC), Ultra Physical Contact (UPC), and Angled Physical contact (APC). To throw a lot of numbers and letters around, PC polish typically has a reflectance of -30dB, UPC polish typical -40dB, and APC polish -65dB or better. Remember, the lower the number the least amount of reflection, so APC being -65dB is premium performance for optical termination because it returns the least amount of light per termination. Hand polishing connector does rely on skill, an experienced technician will be able to give you the best results but it still can be an imperfect science. Mechanical connectors allowed anybody to be able to put on a connector with the use of specific tools and simple termination procedures, but because of the reflectance of the matching gel, along with the mating of the ferrules, you will achieve around the -40dB referenced above. By being able to fusion splice a factory terminated pigtail to a field fiber, you achieve maximum performance of the ferrule polish due to the low reflectance fusion splice technology. A -65dB return loss on an APC termination is possible because a typical core alignment fusion splice is actually considered a non-reflective event. As we bring fiber closer and closer to the home, with lab environment transmission of 400gB of data over fiber, we can’t afford the return of light that our networks of days past allowed us.
With fusion splicing becoming the termination method of choice for performance, it’s now about installation and how we can make it easier. Pigtail splicing while practical, can be cumbersome with cable management and could require more rack space for that management. You prep your field fiber, you prep your pigtail, you splice them together and manage the slack, and you have a high performing termination.
The industry is now seeing Splice on Connectors as a popular choice of termination vs traditional pigtails because of the cost, space, and time savings they offer. Now you can use a factory terminated connector that can be spliced right at the end of your trunk cable, allowing a time savings in cable prep, a space saving without the excess length of traditional pigtails, and still giving your connection an Insertion Loss as low as .20dB, and a minimal return loss as low as -65dB. Splice on Connectors can arguably be your lowest cost, easiest to install, and best performing termination method.
In conclusion, I want to say that I am writing on my laptop while streaming a basketball game, my wife is streaming her reality TV while scrolling home improvement blogs on her phone, and our demand for bandwidth isn’t slowing down. As our use of technology evolves, so must our data networks. And in terms of how we terminate our fibers, the practice of using splice on connectors has us all trending in the right direction.

The Benefits of Using Media Converters

Are you a network manager or a person working in IT? Have you ever had a need to extend your network infrastructure, but knew that your current cabling could not support the additional length and speeds required? If so, this is a common situation that many people find themselves in now a days. Today, we’re going to talk about fiber optic media converters and fiber switches and specifically how they can help you extend your network range, future proof your network speed, and revolutionize the way you manage your data.
So what exactly is a media converter anyway? What is a switch? Well, to start, a media converter is a simple networking device that makes it possible to connect two unlike media types, such as copper and fiber. A switch is a device that connects other devices within a network. You can also connect multiple data cables into a switch to allow communication between other networked devices. Fiber switches can manage the flow of data on a network by receiving and transmitting messages to other networked devices. Each networked device that’s connected to a switch can be identified, allowing the switch to control the flow of traffic. But before we jump into more of the details on each of these, I think it’s important for us to understand the basic differences of the network structures that are popular today.
There are really two main types of fiber optic network structures that are being used today. First is the Passive Optical Network (PON) and second is the Active Optical Network (AON). A PON is a point to point network structure that uses optical splitters to passively distribute signal. The amount of signal received is dependent on the split ratio of the hard wired splitter and is not adjustable. An AON is a point to point network structure that uses electrically powered equipment, such as a media converter or a switch, to manage signal distribution and direct signals to specific locations or subscribers. In an AON, the bandwidth allocation is completely adjustable and can be managed by software via the switch. This is the type of network structure that we are going to focus on today.
In an AON, we can use media converters to do a few things. The first, and most common application, is converting copper cable to fiber optic cable. A quick example of this would be connecting two campus buildings together. Let’s say that the length between the two buildings is over the limitations of copper cable, so you need to run fiber. How do you do it? How do you get your copper signal transferred over to fiber, without losing any of the signal integrity? Well, the simple solution is to put a media converter in both buildings and connect them together. This means, taking an RJ 45 patch cord and connecting it to the media converter via its onboard RJ 45 port. Once plugged in, you would then connect the fiber optic indoor/outdoor rated cable to its onboard duplex port. Once both are connected, you would do the same thing in the other building to make the connection complete. Problem solved.
One important thing to remember when you’re using media converters is that the data speed on the copper side is auto adjustable. This means that the RJ 45 port automatically selects the operating transmission speed depending on what the incoming speed is from the fiber optic port. The fiber optic port, however, is not adjustable. The reason it’s at a fixed speed is due to the fact that the internal laser or VCSEL (Vertical Cavity Surface Emitting Laser) in the converter can only transmit at its calibrated rate. If you have a need to adjust your optical speed rate, one way to get around this is to select a media converter or switch with a SFP (Small Form Pluggable) port. What is a SFP port? Let me explain.
The great thing about fiber optic media converters and switches is that they come in a variety of different styles and configurations. Most support all of the standard fiber optic connector types: ST, FC, SC, and LC. Typically, when you choose the LC connector, the unit will come with an open SFP port. What’s an SFP port you ask? An SFP port is an open port with a standardized footprint that accepts a removable transceiver module that’s typically designed for a duplex LC connector. An SFP module is essentially a compact pluggable transceiver. The word transceiver means that it can both transmit and receive data over a duplex fiber optic cable. These can be purchased in either single mode or multi mode wavelengths. They can transmit data various distances and speeds, depending on what your network requires. The reason why the SFP option is so beneficial to you as the network manager, is because it allows you the option to upgrade your network, down the road, without having to purchase any new active equipment. You wouldn’t need to make another capital investment. You can keep your existing equipment and speed up your system, or extend your network range, simply by swapping out your SFP modules. Just so you get an idea of how good this is, the average price on a SFP module is comparable to a Big Mac Meal for two people. The savings is significant and the convenience unbeatable. It’s a great way to future proof your network!
Alright, so now that we’ve covered some of the basics, I’ll mention one additional benefit to using active equipment. You have the ability to manage your network permissions. The great thing about using switches and media converters is that most of these have the ability to be managed remotely from a laptop. You can have full control over where your data goes and where it does not. As the network operator, this is critical. In this day and age, security is a top priority and having the ability to control your data rights is an advantage that PON does not give.
In closing, you don’t need to be an expert in fiber optics to start using media converters and switches. They’re simple, cost effective, and an easily managed solution. If you have any additional questions on this subject matter, I encourage you to reach out to an FIS sales associate today. We are available and always happy to help with all of your network needs.

What Is An SFP Module and Why Should I Use It?

In the communications industry, size and flexibility really matter. If you can pack more data transmission into a smaller package with more flexibility of options, you’re ahead of the game. Back in the early 2000’s, the introduction of the SFP (Small Form Pluggable) module and socket was a great success in bringing flexibility and expandability to everyday network test equipment. Not only is it still being utilized today, it’s become an industry standard used by manufacturers and providers all around the world.
So, what exactly is an SFP module? What does it do? Well to start, an SFP module is simply a small modular transceiver that plugs into an SFP socket on a network switch. The word transceiver means that it can both transmit and receive data. This means that the SFP module converts electrical signals to optical signals and vice versa. This is typically done over a duplex fiber optic patch cable via two LC connectors. One fiber is designated for transmit and one fiber is designated for receive, however there are certain types of SFP’s that can transmit and receive data over a single fiber by multiplexing wavelengths. We’ll discuss this more in detail later. These pluggable transceivers are used in networking devices to give the user flexibility in options and plug-and-play ease of use. There are many different types of SFP modules available today. Most can be broken down into three main categories: Transmission Speed, Range, and Compatibility.
Let’s talk about transmission speed. The most common SFP module on the market today is the 1 Gb. These are the least expensive SFP modules to purchase and by far the most popular network speed today. But with the expansion of networks and ever increasing demand for bandwidth, the 10 Gb SFP+ module is becoming more and more popular. The “+” means that the SFP module is enhanced for 10 Gb transmission. Next is the 25 Gb SFP28, which is designed for 100 Gb switches. You can achieve the 100 Gb by utilizing (4) of these SFP28 modules. The foot print for the SFP28 module is still the same as the SFP and SFP+.
Next up, we have the QSFP (Quad Small Form Pluggable) module. The QSFP module has a different footprint than the SFP and therefore is considered an evolution of the technology. The QSFP footprint is specifically designed for the multi fiber MPO optical connector. Typically, the QSFP utilizes 8 out of the 12 channels of the MPO connector for transmit and receive. The first speed available is for 4 Gb applications, which means that each channel can transmit 1 Gb of data. The next speed option is the 40 Gb QSFP+. Just like before, the “+” means that the QSFP is enhanced for each channel to handle 10 Gb of data transmission. The QSFP28 can handle 100 Gb, with 25 Gb of data on each channel.
Now that we have the basics covered on the transmission speeds, let’s talk about transmission range. If you’re familiar with SFP modules, you may have seen various abbreviations used in the descriptions to indicate the SFP’s transmission range. These abbreviations are just a quick reference guide on range. The first of these is “SX”. The SX indicates that the SFP module is transmitting a 1 Gb multi mode wavelength. The most common is the 850nm wavelength for a maximum of 550 meters. If there’s a need to extend the multi mode transmission distance, you can also choose a 1310nm wavelength for a maximum transmission distance of 2,000 meters.
The next five abbreviations are all used for single mode wavelengths. LX is used for 1310nm for distances up to 10,000 meters. The EX is also for the 1310nm wavelength but has an extended distance of 40,000 meters. The ZX abbreviation is used for the 1550nm wavelength and can transmit up to 80,000 meters. The EZX also uses the 1550nm wavelength but for maximum transmission distance of 160,000 meters. The last abbreviation is used for single fiber / bi-directional SFP modules. The BX means that you are using the 1490nm and 1310nm wavelengths to multiplex both wavelengths down one fiber. But what does it mean to multiplex wavelengths? Well, let me explain.
Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM) is a big topic to discuss but for the sake of time, let’s just keep it simple. SFP Modules are wavelength specific devices that convert light to an electrical signal. Basically, the idea of multiplexing is sending multiple light wavelengths down the same fiber and sorting them out at the other end. The big advantage with WDM is that you are maximizing the number of channels you have in your network. So, for example, if you have a 12 fiber cable installed in your network and you are using the standard method of 6 fibers for transmit and 6 fibers for receive, you can double your capacity by using bi-directional SFP modules and multiplexing the transmit and receive wavelengths down a single fiber. So, instead of using 6 fibers for transmit/receive, you’re utilizing all 12. Make sense?
Lastly, let’s talk about SFP compatibility. As mentioned earlier, the SFP socket and module is an industry standard used all around the world. That being said, not all SFP modules will work with all SFP sockets. Most large equipment manufacturers around the world have placed their own set of programming built into their switches. The reason they do this is to ensure the end user buys their own SFP modules and not modules from a third party. Over the past few years, a lot of third party companies have developed their own tools to program SFP modules to be compatible with the OEM. This has allowed the end user to purchase SFP modules and QSFP modules for a fraction of the original OEM cost. There are also some equipment manufacturers that adhere to the MSA (Multi Source Agreement) standard. The MSA standard is a multi-source-agreement between equipment manufacturers who came together to collaborate and standardize the form, fit, and function. So when you’re in the market for a new SFP module, the question to ask is: Do I need a MSA compatible SFP or do I need it programmed to the OEM?

Common Fiber Network Issues

Something that I take a lot of pride in, is the technical support and service that my department provides our customers on a daily basis, free of charge. I always feel a huge sense of satisfaction when the technical department can provide a solution to our customer’s questions.
Why is my fiber Ethernet link not working?
One common problem many of our customers have come to me with is “Why is my fiber Ethernet link not responding, I even get a link light but I am not getting any transmission of data?”, This old problem raised its ugly head as recently as last week. This reoccurring fiber related issue usually results from speed mismatches between the Ethernet equipment. As we know, Ethernet commonly transmits data at 10 Mbps, 100 Mbps, 1000 Mbps (1 Gig), 10 Gig and now 40 Gig. Both copper and fiber switches exist to support these speeds. As an example, a copper switch that runs at 1000 Mbps will list the port speeds as 10/100/1000. This is because copper can negotiate network speeds, meaning if a 100 Mbps device is plugged into the 10/100/1000 port, the switch can slow down the port to the 100 Mbps speed. This statement is not true when it comes to fiber. A fiber port cannot negotiate its speeds, so in this same situation the fiber equipment MUST be 1000 Mbps on each end. Typically, I see where a 1000 Mbps fiber switch port is plugged into a media converter that is rated for 100 Mbps, or vice versa, this will cause a link failure because of the speed mismatch. The reason fiber Ethernet ports do not negotiate speeds is solely due to light sources. For example, 10 Mbps fiber runs using an 850nm LED light source, 100 Mbps uses a 1300nm LED and 1000 Mbps utilizes a 850nm VCSEL (Vertical Cavity Surface Emitting Laser), so it really comes down to economics. Fiber Ethernet ports that could auto negotiate speeds would have to be built with a minimum of three light sources, theoretically tripling the price of the port. The easiest answer is to just make sure that the fiber port speed and the media converter are an exact match, as in my example from last week, the customer purchased a 1000 Mbps media converter and the problem was solved.
Why does my fusion splicer work better some days than it does on others?
Without a doubt, the single most reoccurring question the technical department receives is related to fusion splicing, or should I say the inconsistent results when splicing a fiber. The conversation always starts with the statement. “Why does my (insert manufacturer here) fusion splicer work very well some days and other days it seems to produce failing results”? One thing I stress when splicing is at a minimum, to perform an Arc Check every time you start the splicer. An arc check is calibrating the splicer against the current environmental conditions. Temperature, relative humidity and barometric pressure all contribute to the performance of a fusion splicer. When turning on a splicer, it will be performing splices according to the last time an arc check was performed. If the environment has changed, bad splices can occur. Bubbles, cracks, high attenuation and broken splices are usually a result of incorrect splice settings and can usually be corrected by running the arc check program.
A few things you need to know when performing an arc check;
• Number one: Always use Singlemode fiber when performing an arc check, even if you are splicing multimode that day, Singlemode must be used.
• Number two: If an arc check results in a NG (No Good), a second arc check must be performed, in fact several may need to be performed, (I am talking to you Denver), you must see an OK before proceeding.
• Number three: If and when you receive a NG message it is important to press the “Optimize” button, this will make the incremental changes to the splice settings.
MPO/MTP Systems – Polarity Matters
The most difficult questions we receive here have to do with the use and implementation of MPO/MTP multi-fiber cables and cassettes. Here at FIS we are constantly training our sales and support staff on the correct methods and polarities associated with these connectors. MPO/MTP connectors usually contain 8, 12, or 24 fibers in a single connection; because of the volume of fibers used, routing the fibers to the correct location can be confusing. MPO/MTP are used for space saving and also for multiple lane transmissions to achieve 40 and 100 Gig (8 fibers used for 40 gig and 20 used for 100 gig). About a month ago, I had a customer that could not get his fibers to the correct destinations using these connectors, and the solution was not easy to come to.
A little back story first; when using MPO/MTP connectors there are typically three polarity options (A, B, and C) A and B are the most commonly used and make up over 90% of our sales. Polarity B is the easiest to implement but cannot be used for Singlemode, let me explain. Polarity B cables install the connectors in a key up to key up configuration, this will flip the fibers so that transmit and receive fibers exit flipped on the other side of the cable, and this is a good thing. Typically, these cables are inserted into rack mountable cassettes that break the fiber out into individual LC connectors.
When using method B for both cables and cassettes, straight through patch cords, that we keep in stock, are used for each transmit/receive pair of LC connectors. This is an ideal situation.
When using method A cassettes and cables, this is a key up to key down solution, the problem is that it the cable does not flip the transmit and receive fibers, meaning the installer has to use standard straight through patch cords with the type A method cassettes on one side but on the opposite side MUST use flipped patch cords. This can be confusing and create installation errors. The reason Singlemode must use the A method is that the ferrules are angled and must mate opposite to each other, whereas multimode are flat ferrules and we do not have to work with an angle.
Now back to my customer’s issues a month ago, they were using method B cables and cassettes so the patch cord issue did not come in to play here. After long conversations we determined that they had installed method A mating sleeves (key up to key down) in the cassettes and not method B (key up to key up) like it should have been. By installing the wrong mating sleeves it flipped the fibers in a way that routed the fibers to the wrong ports.
When choosing a method for MPO/MTP connectors it is important to remember that the cables and the cassettes must be the same polarity/method (A or B) as well as all internal components. It can be frustrating when troubleshooting MPO/MTP issues, but ultimately it takes time to walk through the problem and experience to understand it and give your customer a solution.
It has been said that time is the price we pay for experience and I truly believe it. The FIS technical support staff has truly paid for their expertise and I implore you to take advantage of our 100+ years of combined experience to help you resolve your fiber related questions.

Choosing a Fiber Optic Cleaver

The old adage, “You get what you pay for” applies to most purchases that you make in life. Fiber optic cleavers are no exception!

When choosing a fiber optic cleaver there are two types of devices to consider:
• Precision Cleavers – These are used to prepare fiber for fusion splicing. This is a process in which a separate tool called a fusion splicer or fusion splicing machine uses a powerful electric arc to fuse (or splice) two fibers together. Precision cleavers also provide superior results when used to prepare fibers for mechanical splicing.
• Mechanical Cleavers – A mechanical cleaver is used to prepare fiber for mechanical splicing only. Instead of fusing, mechanical splices rely on mechanical gripping mechanisms to hold the two fibers together. Mechanical cleavers are not considered accurate enough to prepare fibers for fusion splicing. That being said, even low cost mechanical cleavers have their place.
This blog will help you decide which type of cleaver is best suited to your needs and budget.
Precision Cleavers Vs. Mechanical Cleavers
A Closer Look
Before an optical fiber can be spliced to another fiber, the end of the fiber must be prepared prior to splicing. The fiber endface must be cleaved, which means breaking (cleaving) the fiber in a precise manner that produces a cleaved surface with the proper geometry and smoothness to ensure optimum signal throughput after the splice is completed. The goal is to minimize light scattering and back reflection at the juncture of the two fibers.
The degree to which such accuracy can be achieved depends on whether you are using a cleaver meant for fusion splicing (precision cleaver) or mechanical splicing (mechanical cleaver).
Precision Cleavers
Precision cleavers are capable of producing a near perfect cleave in which the cleaved endface of the fiber is at a 90 degree angle relative to the length of the fiber, in other words after cleaving the fiber endface is perpendicular relative to the length of the fiber. Generally, this is the ideal angle at which to fuse two fibers together. Some precision cleavers are designed to produce cleave angles other than 90 degrees, such as may be required for specialized applications involved in the manufacture of semiconductors and laser diodes. Angled cleavers are also sometimes used with mechanical splices to minimize back reflectance.
In either case, the goal is to achieve consistent cleave angles within 1 degree of accuracy, this can only be achieved using a Precision Cleaver.
Operation
When using a precision cleaver, the technician simply places the fiber in the device and clamps it down in the correct position. The tool then completes the cleaving operation automatically. There is no chance that the operator will apply the wrong amount of pressure to score and snap the fiber. The precision cleaver does it all, with accuracy, repeatability and reliability.
Applications
• Single mode and Multimode Networks
• Telecom and Datacom
• Component Assembly
• High Strength Splicing Applications
• Splice-On Connectors
Advantages
• Cleaves both single mode and multimode fiber
• Produces high precision cleaves that mitigate signal loss
• Provides reliability and repeatability
• Ribbon splicing option
Disadvantages
• Cost – Relatively high cost compared to mechanical cleavers. Typical prices range from $500 to $1,000 or more.
Mechanical Cleavers
If your application allows splicing fibers by mechanical means (as opposed to fusing them together) you can probably get by with a relatively inexpensive mechanical cleaver. Mechanical cleavers are used to prepare fibers for mechanical splices, which employ mechanical gripping mechanisms to hold the two fibers together. Mechanical splices may also use Index Matching Gel between adjoining fibers to help reduce back reflection and signal loss due to irregularities in the fiber endfaces. Mechanical cleavers are also known as pocket cleavers, field cleavers, beaver cleavers and staple-type cleavers.
Operation
A notable characteristic of a mechanical cleaver is its long leaf spring. Typically. the fiber is held in position on the spring by a retainer while a blade is brought into contact with the fiber to scratch (score) the fiber. The technician then bends the leaf spring, causing the fiber to break along the score line. A skilled technician can achieve a cleave angle within 2 degrees of accuracy.
Applications
• Mechanical Splices
• Mechanical Connectors
• Multimode Networks
• Premise and Campus Installations
• Local Datacom Multimode Networks
• Other multimode applications not subject to tight loss budgets
Advantages
• Cost – Affordable enough to put one in every tool box. Prices range from $100 to $200.
• Low Maintenance – Simple mechanical design
Disadvantages
• Less Accurate – Provides less precision and repeatability when compared to a precision cleaver. Not suitable for preparing fiber for fusion splicing.
• Multimode Only – Not suitable for cleaving single mode fiber.
Summary
If you are required to do fusion splicing, there is no question about it – you need a precision cleaver. If you are doing mechanical splicing only, you can likely get by with a lower cost mechanical cleaver.
Be aware that a precision cleaver can perform both types of cleaving, allowing you to minimize signal loss in both single mode and multimode networks. Although purchasing a precision cleaver involves a higher upfront cost, it may prove to be the best value in the long term.
Cleaver Specifications (Typical)
Precision Cleavers – Models are available for use with 250-µm to 900-µm coated fibers. V-groove alignment and adjustable cleave lengths can provide consistent cleave angles of 90 Degrees +/- 0.5 Degrees. Precision cleavers are available with diamond blades, with 16 or more blade positions that provide up to 3,000 cleaves per position. Precision cleavers can be purchased with fixtures that enable the cleaving of ribbon fibers and can accommodate 2 to 24 fibers.
Mechanical Cleavers – Models are available for use with 80µm to 200µm fibers or 900µm buffer or 250µm coated fiber. Mechanical cleavers provide cleave lengths of 2 to 20mm. These cleavers are available with ceramic blades that offer 1,000 cleaves or more, or carbide blades that can provide 5,000 cleaves or more. Mechanical cleavers typically include a graduated scale to indicate various cleave lengths.

How Should I Terminate My Fiber Optic Cable

In today’s day and age, we are more connected than ever. And we expect it.
At the work place we are attending virtual trainings on the latest technologies and we are connecting across the globe with our colleagues in real-time meetings – with just the click of a button.
When we leave work, we are going home using app-based scooters and bicycles that only needs the swipe of a cell phone. And if taking a highway home, you no longer search for change at a toll booth but instead you drive through a toll lane that scans and charges your account as you drive underneath it.
And it doesn’t stop at home. We are answering emails, while streaming Ultra HD video on our smart TV’s, all while having the latest super hero flick downloading on our tablet to watch on an upcoming business trip.
With the ever-increasing demand for the bandwidth needed to meet today’s expectations; how we design, install, and maintain our fiber optic networks must evolve with that same demand. In particular, the methods used to terminate, or connect, the ends of our fiber optic networks has evolved in the past 20 years quite drastically; starting with hand-polishing a ferrule with films and epoxies to achieve a finished termination. Hand epoxy polishing gave you a good, epoxy-cured connection but can be time consuming, and it took certain skill sets to achieve a good ferrule polish. Epoxy terminations lead to Mechanical Terminations which is the mechanical mating of fibers with the use of specific hand tools, v-groove alignment, and index matching gel to bridge the air gap between fibers. The benefits of using a factory-polished ferrule and the mechanical termination offered a time saving from traditional hand-polishing and allowed even some of the most novice of technicians the ability of putting a quality connector on in the field. As optical fusion splice machines and fusion splicing technology improved, technicians can now fusion splice a pigtail, a length of cable factory terminated on a single end, to a field cable that has been newly pulled or an old cable that needs to be repaired.
More importantly than any convenience of use though, is the performance of the termination. To enjoy some of the luxuries of connectivity mentioned before, we need a stronger optical signal to go farther than ever. Insertion Loss (IL) is a measurement of the optical power that is lost through a mated pair in decibels (dB). To compare the performance in IL of the three main termination methods, hand epoxy can typically range from .20dB – .75dB depending on installer. A typical mechanical style termination IL is 0.50dB, with loss accumulating from both the air gap of a mated pair, and the alignment of the fiber stub to your field fiber. Fusion splicing a pigtail or connector, is going to give your lowest loss of light through termination. Average fusion splice termination IL is .02dB – .05dB of loss through the splice, for a total of typical .20dB IL from your termination. By fusion splicing a connector in your network you are performing that much better in regards of your signal getting from source to receive.
Another important factor of your termination is how much light it reflects, you do not want your termination to be reflective. Reflectance is measured by how much light (dB) is returned back up the link, and the lower the number (farthest from 0) the better. The ferrule of your termination is the main factor in reflectance, and is categorized in 3 main stages: Physical Contact (PC), Ultra Physical Contact (UPC), and Angled Physical contact (APC). To throw a lot of numbers and letters around, PC polish typically has a reflectance of -30dB, UPC polish typical -40dB, and APC polish -65dB or better. Remember, the lower the number the least amount of reflection, so APC being -65dB is premium performance for optical termination because it returns the least amount of light per termination. Hand polishing connector does rely on skill, an experienced technician will be able to give you the best results but it still can be an imperfect science. Mechanical connectors allowed anybody to be able to put on a connector with the use of specific tools and simple termination procedures, but because of the reflectance of the matching gel, along with the mating of the ferrules, you will achieve around the -40dB referenced above. By being able to fusion splice a factory terminated pigtail to a field fiber, you achieve maximum performance of the ferrule polish due to the low reflectance fusion splice technology. A -65dB return loss on an APC termination is possible because a typical core alignment fusion splice is actually considered a non-reflective event. As we bring fiber closer and closer to the home, with lab environment transmission of 400gB of data over fiber, we can’t afford the return of light that our networks of days past allowed us.
With fusion splicing becoming the termination method of choice for performance, it’s now about installation and how we can make it easier. Pigtail splicing while practical, can be cumbersome with cable management and could require more rack space for that management. You prep your field fiber, you prep your pigtail, you splice them together and manage the slack, and you have a high performing termination.
The industry is now seeing Splice on Connectors as a popular choice of termination vs traditional pigtails because of the cost, space, and time savings they offer. Now you can use a factory terminated connector that can be spliced right at the end of your trunk cable, allowing a time savings in cable prep, a space saving without the excess length of traditional pigtails, and still giving your connection an Insertion Loss as low as .20dB, and a minimal return loss as low as -65dB. Splice on Connectors can arguably be your lowest cost, easiest to install, and best performing termination method.
In conclusion, I want to say that I am writing on my laptop while streaming a basketball game, my wife is streaming her reality TV while scrolling home improvement blogs on her phone, and our demand for bandwidth isn’t slowing down. As our use of technology evolves, so must our data networks. And in terms of how we terminate our fibers, the practice of using splice on connectors has us all trending in the right direction.