Butterfly-shaped optical fiber optic cables are a type of fiber optic cable that is widely used in communication networks. They are called butterfly-shaped because they have two parallel optical fiber ribbons on either side of a central strength member. There are four common end connection methods used with butterfly-shaped optical fiber optic cables, and in this article, we will explore each of them in detail.
Fusion Splicing:
Fusion splicing is a process of joining two optical fibers together by melting their ends with an electric arc. Fusion splicing is the most common method used to connect butterfly-shaped optical fiber optic cables. It is a reliable and efficient way to join the optical fibers, and it results in a low-loss connection.
Fusion splicing requires specialized equipment, including a fusion splicer and fiber cleaver. The process involves stripping the protective coating from the ends of the optical fibers, aligning them precisely, and fusing them together. Once the fusion is complete, a protective sleeve is placed over the joint to provide mechanical strength and protect the joint from external influences.
Mechanical Splicing:
Mechanical splicing is a process of joining two optical fibers together using a mechanical splice. Mechanical splices are pre-manufactured connectors that align and hold the optical fibers in place. They use a precision alignment method to align the fibers, and they do not require any special equipment to install.
Mechanical splices are less expensive than fusion splices, but they are also less reliable. They can result in a higher loss connection than fusion splices, and they are more susceptible to external influences.
Connectors:
Connectors are pre-manufactured devices used to join optical fibers together. Connectors are similar to mechanical splices in that they use a precision alignment method to align the optical fibers, but they are more robust and offer better protection against external influences.
Connectors are easy to install and remove, and they allow for quick and easy changes to the optical fiber network. However, they are more expensive than mechanical splices, and they can result in a higher loss connection than fusion splices.
Field Terminated Connectors:
Field terminated connectors are connectors that are installed in the field by technicians. They are similar to pre-manufactured connectors, but they require special tools and techniques to install.
Field terminated connectors are used in situations where pre-manufactured connectors are not available or suitable. They offer the same benefits as pre-manufactured connectors, including quick and easy changes to the optical fiber network, but they require more skill and experience to install.
Conclusion:
Butterfly-shaped optical fiber optic cables are an essential component of communication networks, and the end connection method used to join them is critical to the performance and reliability of the network. Fusion splicing is the most common and reliable method used to connect butterfly-shaped optical fiber optic cables. Mechanical splicing, connectors, and field-terminated connectors are also used, but they offer varying degrees of reliability, cost, and ease of installation. Choosing the right end connection method depends on the specific needs of the network, the available resources, and the skill and experience of the technicians.
