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Fiber optic termination refers to the physical termination of a length of a fiber optic cable into one of many types of connectors. The type of connector to be used in the termination depends on the type of cable and application. The reason for the termination is either to create a connection to a device or transceiver, to splice two cables into one longer cable or to multiplex a cable so that it can move more branches.
Techopedia Explains Fiber Optic Termination
Fiber optic termination is a necessary step for installing a fiber optic network. Since any mistakes may result in the system functioning unreliably, this step must be performed correctly. Much attention has been given to this area, so more and more products are being developed to make the process easier and more accurate.
The tools needed for termination are fiber strippers, a cable jacket stripper, polishing glass plate and puck, fiber scissors, and a rubber pad for polishing the connectors. The required supplies are the connectors themselves, epoxy and syringes for application and polishing film for cleaning the end of the cut fiber.
There are two methods for terminating the fiber: the first is through the use of connectors that form a temporary joint, and the other is through splicing, which involves actually connecting two bare fiber ends directly. Splicing can be done mechanically by simply aligning the two ends and fastening with an adhesive or snap-type cover, which is more or less a permanent splice. Another method that is more durable and precise is to do a fusion splice, which involves melting the fibers and welding them together, but the equipment required for this is expensive and bulky.
