Tumtec FST-18S Optical Fiber Fusion Splicer Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides instructions for the safe and efficient operation of the Tumtec FST-18S Optical Fiber Fusion Splicer. The FST-18S is a high-precision, active cladding alignment fusion splicer designed for FTTx construction. It features a robust industrial quad-core CPU, a 5-inch high-resolution color LCD touch screen, and a detachable 5200mAh battery for extended use. Please read this manual thoroughly before operating the device.

2. Safety Information

Always observe the following safety precautions to prevent injury and damage to the equipment:

• High Voltage: The fusion splicer operates with high voltage during the splicing process. Do not touch the electrodes or internal components while the device is powered on.
• Optical Radiation: Avoid direct eye exposure to the light emitted from the fiber during operation.
• Sharp Objects: Fiber optic cleavers and stripped fibers have sharp edges. Handle with care to prevent cuts. Dispose of fiber scraps properly in a designated container.
• Flammable Materials: Keep flammable liquids and materials away from the splicing area, especially during the heating process.
• Environmental Conditions: Operate the splicer within the specified environmental conditions (temperature, humidity, altitude) to ensure optimal performance and safety. Avoid exposure to dust, water, and extreme temperatures.
• Battery Safety: Use only the specified battery and charger. Do not short-circuit, disassemble, or expose the battery to high temperatures.
• Authorized Personnel: Only trained and authorized personnel should operate and maintain this equipment.

3. Product Overview

The Tumtec FST-18S is designed for precision fiber optic splicing. Key features include:

• Active cladding alignment for FTTx applications.
• Industrial quad-core CPU for high performance.
• 5-inch high-resolution color LCD touch screen with 400X magnification.
• Detachable 5200mAh battery supporting over 250 splice and heat cycles.
• Three high-power white LEDs and illuminated keypads for low-light conditions.
• German CNC technique and integrated fiber-adjust frame for stable performance.
• Built-in Japanese components and Korean chipset.
• Detachable multifunction fixture compatible with various fiber types.
• Dust-proof, water-proof, and high-temperature resistant design.

Figure 3.1: Front view of the Tumtec FST-18S Fusion Splicer with its 5-inch LCD touch screen displaying the main menu options like Splice History, Function Set, Splice Menu, and Heater Menu.

Figure 3.2: Side view of the Tumtec FST-18S Fusion Splicer, showing its compact design and robust casing. The red side panel indicates the battery compartment.

Figure 3.3: Rear view of the Tumtec FST-18S Fusion Splicer, highlighting the detachable battery pack with a battery indicator and a carrying strap attachment point.

Figure 3.4: Top view of the Tumtec FST-18S Fusion Splicer with the cover open, revealing the fiber alignment V-grooves, electrodes, and fiber clamps in the splicing chamber.

Figure 3.5: The Tumtec FST-18S Fusion Splicer and its complete set of accessories, including power adapter, fiber cleaver, fiber stripper, and carrying case.

4. Setup

4.1 Unpacking

Carefully remove the fusion splicer and all accessories from the packaging. Verify that all components listed in the packing list are present and undamaged. Retain the original packaging for future transport or storage.

4.2 Battery Installation and Charging

1. Ensure the splicer is powered off.
2. Locate the battery compartment on the rear of the device.
3. Insert the 5200mAh battery pack, ensuring it clicks securely into place.
4. Connect the AC adapter to the splicer's power input and then to a suitable power outlet. The battery charging indicator will illuminate.
5. Allow the battery to fully charge before initial use. A full charge provides approximately 250 splice and heat cycles.

4.3 Initial Power-On

Press and hold the power button until the screen illuminates. The device will perform a self-test and display the main operating interface. The boot-up time is approximately 3 seconds.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1 Fiber Preparation

1. Strip the Fiber: Use a fiber stripper to remove the protective coating from the fiber, exposing the bare fiber. The stripping length should be appropriate for the cleaver and splicer.
2. Clean the Fiber: Clean the stripped fiber with an alcohol wipe (99% isopropyl alcohol) to remove any residue. Allow it to air dry completely.
3. Cleave the Fiber: Place the cleaned fiber into the fiber cleaver and perform a precise cleave. A good cleave is critical for low splice loss. The cleaved length should be 8-16 mm, depending on the fiber diameter.
4. Important: Handle cleaved fibers carefully to avoid contamination or damage to the end face.

5.2 Loading Fibers into the Splicer

1. Open the splicer's wind cover.
2. Gently place the prepared fibers into the V-grooves, ensuring the fiber end faces are positioned correctly between the electrodes.
3. Close the fiber clamps and then the wind cover. The splicer will automatically begin fiber alignment.

5.3 Splicing Process

1. Once fibers are loaded and aligned, the splicer will display the estimated splice loss.
2. Press the SET button or touch the "Splice" icon on the screen to initiate the splicing process. The splicer will perform the fusion splice automatically.
3. The splicing time is approximately 6 seconds in quick mode.
4. After splicing, the screen will display the actual splice loss. If the loss is acceptable, proceed to heating.

5.4 Heat Shrink Protection

1. Carefully open the wind cover and fiber clamps. Remove the spliced fiber.
2. Slide a heat shrink sleeve over the splice point.
3. Place the fiber with the sleeve into the heating oven.
4. Close the heater cover. The heating process will start automatically.
5. The heating time is approximately 13-30 seconds, depending on the sleeve length and selected heating mode.
6. Once heating is complete, carefully remove the fiber from the oven and allow it to cool.

5.5 Screen Navigation and Settings

The 5-inch touch screen allows access to various settings and functions:

• Splice History: View past splicing records and images (up to 20,000 records).
• Function Set: Adjust parameters such as language, screen brightness, and auto-off settings.
• Splice Menu: Select from pre-set splicing modes (41 available, up to 100 customizable).
• Heater Menu: Select from pre-set heating modes (5 available for 20/30/40/50/60mm sleeves, up to 100 customizable).
• Maintain: Access maintenance functions like electrode cleaning and arc calibration.
• System Info: View device information and software version.

6. Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and extends the lifespan of your FST-18S splicer.

6.1 Cleaning Electrodes

Electrodes can accumulate dust and fiber debris, affecting splice quality. Clean them regularly:

1. Power off the splicer and allow it to cool.
2. Use a cotton swab lightly dampened with alcohol to gently wipe the tips of the electrodes.
3. Alternatively, use the built-in electrode cleaning function if available in the "Maintain" menu.
4. Replace electrodes when they become worn or damaged (typically after 3000-5000 splices).

6.2 Cleaning V-Grooves and Fiber Clamps

Dust and fiber particles in the V-grooves can cause fiber misalignment and high splice loss.

1. Power off the splicer.
2. Use a clean, dry cotton swab or a soft brush to remove any debris from the V-grooves and fiber clamps.
3. For stubborn dirt, use a cotton swab lightly dampened with alcohol.

6.3 Battery Care

• Charge the battery fully before long-term storage.
• If storing for extended periods, recharge the battery every 3-6 months to prevent deep discharge.
• Avoid operating or charging the battery in extreme temperatures.

6.4 General Cleaning

Wipe the exterior of the splicer with a soft, damp cloth. Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.

7. Troubleshooting

8. Specifications

9. Customer Support

For technical assistance, warranty inquiries, or service requests, please contact Tumtec customer support. Refer to your purchase documentation for specific contact details.

Warranty Information: While specific warranty terms are not detailed here, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or contact your retailer/manufacturer for details regarding coverage and duration. Protection plans may also be available for extended coverage.

Online Resources: Visit the official Tumtec website for additional resources, FAQs, and software updates.