Furukawa Electric Company (FEC) has introduced the latest Fitel-branded core alignment fusion splicer. The S178A has a more rugged, compact and lighter body compared to the previous model, with vastly improved splicing and heating time. Using the same rugged metal body of S178A, FEC has also launched the S153A fusion splicer. The S153A is a new concept fusion splicer which uses an ‘active clad alignment’ function. The S153A achieves lower splice loss with less user skill required compared to conventional fixed V-groove clad alignment fusion splicers, delivering an operating cost benefit compared to core alignment fusion splicers.
These two machines are both designed to endure harsh operating conditions by improved dust, water and impact resistance. Another key feature of both machines is the significantly reduced operation time. Protection sleeve shrink time is a mere 25 seconds, while splicing requires only seven seconds with the S178A. Power saving technology used in these machines allows up to 200 splicing cycles (splicing and heating) with two built in rechargeable batteries. Both fusion splicers are capable of splicing Seikoh Giken and Diamond SA connectors for FTTX applications.