KOMSHINE FX37 7s Fusion Splicer User Manual

1. Introduction

The KOMSHINE FX37 7s is a high-performance core-to-core alignment fusion splicer designed for efficient and reliable fiber optic splicing. This device is suitable for various fiber types including 250µm, 900µm, flat cable, and jumper cable, making it ideal for FTTX applications. This manual provides essential information for the safe and effective operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your FX37 7s fusion splicer.

Figure 1: KOMSHINE FX37 7s Fusion Splicer

2. Safety Information

Please read and understand all safety instructions before operating the device. Failure to follow these instructions may result in injury or damage to the equipment.

• Eye Protection: Always wear appropriate eye protection when working with optical fibers and the fusion splicer. Invisible laser light may be present.
• Electrical Safety: Do not operate the splicer with wet hands or in damp environments. Ensure the power adapter and battery are in good condition.
• Hot Surfaces: The heating element becomes very hot during operation. Avoid direct contact to prevent burns.
• Fiber Shards: Optical fiber shards are extremely sharp and can cause injury. Dispose of all fiber scraps properly in a designated container.
• Flammable Materials: Keep flammable liquids and materials away from the splicer, especially during the heating process.

3. Package Contents

Verify that all items listed below are included in your package. If any items are missing or damaged, contact your supplier immediately.

• FX37 Arc Fusion Splicer
• AC Adapter
• FIS Fiber Stripper
• Spare Electrodes
• Battery Pack
• Alcohol Pump Bottle
• Cleaning Wipes
• Flat Cable Stripper
• Cooling Tray
• Fiber Cleaver
• User Manual
• Carrying Case
• Protection Sleeves (60mm x 200)
• Calibration Certificate

Figure 2: FX37 7s Splicer and standard accessories

4. Setup

4.1 Battery Installation and Charging

1. Locate the battery compartment on the underside of the splicer.
2. Insert the 5200 mAh high-capacity battery pack, ensuring it clicks securely into place.
3. Connect the AC adapter to the splicer's power input and then to a power outlet to charge the battery. The battery indicator on the screen will show charging status.
4. A full charge provides approximately 300 splices and heating cycles.

Figure 3: Battery attached to the splicer

4.2 Initial Power On

1. Press and hold the power button until the display screen illuminates.
2. The splicer will perform a self-diagnostic check.
3. Select your preferred language from the available options (English, Italian, Spanish, French, Portuguese, Russian, Bahasa Indonesia, Traditional Chinese, Simplified Chinese).

5. Operating Instructions

5.1 Fiber Preparation

1. Strip the Fiber: Use the fiber stripper to remove the protective coating from the fiber, exposing the bare fiber. Ensure the stripped length is appropriate for your cleaver and splicer.
2. Clean the Fiber: Use a lint-free wipe moistened with isopropyl alcohol to thoroughly clean the bare fiber. Allow it to air dry completely.
3. Cleave the Fiber: Place the cleaned fiber into the fiber cleaver (e.g., the included FC-30 type cleaver). Ensure a precise, perpendicular cleave. A good cleave is critical for low splice loss.

Figure 4: Fiber Cleaver, essential for precise fiber preparation

5.2 Splicing Process

1. Open the Splicer: Lift the top cover of the splicer to access the V-grooves and electrodes.
2. Load the Fibers: Carefully place the prepared fibers into the V-grooves, ensuring the cleaved ends are positioned correctly between the electrodes. The splicer's HD CMOS sensors will align the fibers.
3. Close the Cover: Gently close the top cover. The splicer will automatically begin the splicing process, including core-to-core alignment and arc fusion.
4. Monitor the Splice: Observe the splicing process on the display screen. The typical splice time is 7 seconds.
5. Review Splice Loss: After splicing, the estimated splice loss (average 0.02 dB) will be displayed.

Figure 5: Splicer with lid open, ready for fiber loading

5.3 Heat Shrink Protection

1. Position Protection Sleeve: Slide a protection sleeve over the spliced fiber joint.
2. Place in Heater: Carefully transfer the spliced fiber with the sleeve into the built-in heater.
3. Activate Heater: Close the heater lid. The heater will automatically activate. The typical heating time is 30 seconds.
4. Cool Down: Once heating is complete, remove the fiber and place it on the cooling tray to allow the sleeve to cool and shrink firmly around the splice.

Figure 6: Splicer display screen with operational menu

6. Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and extends the lifespan of your FX37 7s splicer.

• Electrode Cleaning and Replacement: The electrodes have a lifespan of approximately 4000 splices. Clean them regularly with a cotton swab and alcohol. Replace them when splice loss increases or the splicer indicates replacement is needed.
• V-Groove and Lens Cleaning: Use a soft brush or cotton swab with alcohol to gently clean the V-grooves and observation lenses. Dust and debris can affect fiber alignment and splice quality.
• Battery Care: To maximize battery life, avoid fully discharging the battery frequently. Store the splicer with a partially charged battery if not in use for extended periods. The battery has a cycle life of 300-500 charge/discharge cycles.
• General Cleaning: Keep the exterior of the splicer clean and free from dust and moisture. Use a soft, dry cloth.

7. Troubleshooting

This section addresses common issues you might encounter. For problems not listed here, contact technical support.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

For warranty information, please refer to the documentation provided at the time of purchase or contact your vendor. Technical support is available through the manufacturer or authorized service centers. Please have your product model (FX37) and serial number ready when contacting support.