The Pitch for 200µm Ribbon Splicing

Sumitomo’s Solution to Ribbon Fiber Splicing

200µm ribbon fibers represent a significant advancement in fiber optic technology, enabling higher density in smaller cables. Compared to traditional 250µm ribbons, their reduced size provides a transformative solution for high-density networks. The Sumitomo Electric Q102-M12+ splicer is uniquely suited for splicing both 200µm and 250µm ribbon fibers, making it a versatile tool for this evolving technology. Additionally, with pitch conversion holders (PCH-12A for group-bonded fibers and PCH-12V for partially bonded fibers), the Q102-M12+ facilitates seamless integration of 200µm and 250µm fibers.

The evolution of ribbon fibers has revolutionized fiber optic networks. Initially, 250µm flat ribbons were standard, but the development of pliable ribbons significantly reduced cable size by approximately 50%. The transition from 250µm pliable to 200µm pliable ribbons further decreased cable size by an additional 30%, allowing for extremely high-fiber-count cables. This innovation, originally developed for data centers, is now expanding into all network segments.

1. Technical Specifications

Features of the Q102-M12+

  • Enhanced Auto-Clamping Adjustment System (ACAS): Minimizes offsets for improved splice accuracy.
  • Replaceable V-Grooves: Interchangeable between 250µm and 200µm ribbons.
  • Special Coatings: Protects V-Grooves and camera lens covers.
  • Pitch Conversion Holders: PCH-12A for group-bonded fibers, PCH-12V for partially bonded fibers. 
2. Challenges in Splicing 200µm Ribbon Fibers

Splicing 200µm ribbon fibers presents unique challenges, particularly when connecting them to traditional 250µm ribbons. Aligning these two types of fibers requires pitch conversion, a process facilitated by specialized pitch conversion holders. Additionally, tools like heated jacket removers must be tailored to handle the smaller coating size of 200µm fibers.

The Q102-M12+ splicer addresses these challenges by:

  • Providing pitch conversion holders for different fiber bonding types.
  • Integrated Enhanced ACAS to reduce splice offsets.
  • Offering precision settings for 200µm splicing.
3. Splicing Process

Standard Process for 200µm Ribbon Fibers

  1. Preparation:
    • Clean, strip, and cleave fibers as usual.
  2. Configuration:
    • Select the appropriate V-Groove for 200µm ribbons.
    • Use the SM Auto program for optimal splice settings.
  3. Splicing:
    • Place the fibers into the splicer for alignment and fusion.
  4. Inspection:
    • Verify splice integrity and ensure no fiber overlap.

4. Pitch Conversion Process:

When splicing 200µm ribbons to 250µm:

  1. Insert 200µm fibers into the PCH-12A or PCH-12V holder.
  2. Perform pitch conversion.
  3. Proceed with the standard splicing practices.