EXFO V1 Fully Automatic Fiber Optic Cleaver User Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides comprehensive instructions for the safe and efficient operation, setup, and maintenance of the EXFO V1 Fully Automatic Fiber Optic Cleaver. The V1 cleaver is designed for precise, one-step fiber cutting, featuring an automatic knife return mechanism to enhance work efficiency. Its robust metal design ensures stable performance and durability.

The device is compatible with various fiber types, including leather wire, bare fiber, and jumper cables, when used with appropriate fixtures. Its compact and lightweight design makes it highly portable for field use.

2. Safety Information

• Always handle optical fibers with extreme care. Fiber shards are very sharp and can cause serious injury.
• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses, when working with fiber optic cables and cleavers.
• Dispose of fiber shards properly in a designated fiber waste container. Do not use standard trash receptacles.
• Keep the cleaver clean and free from dust and debris to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
• Do not attempt to disassemble or repair the cleaver beyond the scope of this manual. Refer to qualified service personnel for repairs.
• Keep out of reach of children.

3. Package Contents

Verify that all items are present and undamaged upon unpacking.

• 1 x EXFO V1 Fully Automatic Fiber Optic Cleaver
• 1 x Protective Carrying Case
• Hex wrenches (for maintenance/adjustment)
• User Manual (this document)

Figure 3.1: EXFO V1 Fiber Optic Cleaver, protective carrying case, and included hex wrenches.

4. Technical Specifications

Figure 4.1: Front view of the EXFO V1 Fiber Optic Cleaver, showing the fiber input and cleaving mechanism.

5. Setup

1. Unpack the Cleaver: Carefully remove the EXFO V1 Fiber Optic Cleaver from its protective carrying case.
2. Inspect for Damage: Before use, visually inspect the cleaver for any signs of damage that may have occurred during shipping. Do not use if damaged.
3. Prepare Work Area: Ensure your work area is clean, well-lit, and free from obstructions. Place a fiber waste container nearby.
4. Stabilize the Cleaver: The cleaver features anti-slip foot pads on the bottom. Place it on a stable, flat surface to prevent movement during operation.

Figure 5.1: The EXFO V1 Fiber Optic Cleaver securely stored within its protective carrying case.

6. Operating Instructions

The EXFO V1 is a fully automatic, one-step fiber cleaver designed for ease of use and precision.

1. Prepare the Fiber: Strip the fiber optic cable to the required length, removing the outer jacket and buffer coating. Clean the bare fiber using an approved fiber cleaning solution and lint-free wipes.
2. Open the Cleaver: Gently lift the top cover of the cleaver to expose the fiber clamping and cleaving mechanism.
3. Position the Fiber: Place the prepared fiber into the designated fiber holder or fixture on the cleaver. Ensure the fiber is straight and positioned correctly according to the desired cleave length (refer to the scale markings if available). The cleaver supports single fibers from 250 µm to 900 µm and drop cables.
4. Secure the Fiber: Close the fiber clamp to gently secure the fiber in place. Ensure it is held firmly without excessive pressure.
5. Perform the Cleave: Press down firmly and smoothly on the top cover of the cleaver. The automatic mechanism will engage, performing a precise one-step cleave and returning the knife to its home position.
6. Remove the Fiber: Carefully open the top cover and remove the cleaved fiber. Inspect the cleave quality.
7. Dispose of Waste: Collect the cleaved fiber scrap and dispose of it immediately in a proper fiber waste container.

Figure 6.1: Close-up of the EXFO V1 cleaver's fiber holder, illustrating where the fiber is placed for cleaving.

7. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Regularly clean the cleaver, especially the blade and fiber clamping areas, using a lint-free cloth and isopropyl alcohol. Ensure no fiber debris accumulates.
• Blade Rotation: The imported tungsten steel blade has a typical lifespan of 60,000 cleaves, distributed across 24 points (2,500 cleaves per point). When cleave quality degrades, rotate the blade to a fresh cutting point. The blade is marked with a scale to facilitate this process. Use the provided hex wrench for adjustment.
• Blade Replacement: After all 24 points have been used, the blade will need to be replaced. Contact your supplier for genuine replacement blades and instructions.
• Storage: When not in use, store the cleaver in its protective carrying case to prevent damage and contamination.

Figure 7.1: The EXFO V1 cleaver, showcasing its robust and compact design, ideal for field maintenance.

8. Troubleshooting

• Poor Cleave Quality:
  • Ensure the fiber is clean and properly stripped.
  • Verify the fiber is correctly positioned in the cleaver's fixture.
  • Rotate the blade to a new cutting point if the current point is worn.
  • If the blade is fully utilized, replace it.
  • Check for any debris on the cleaver's cutting surface or fiber clamps.
• Fiber Not Cutting:
  • Confirm the cleaver mechanism is fully engaged by pressing down firmly.
  • Check if the blade is dull or broken. Rotate or replace the blade as necessary.
  • Ensure the fiber is correctly seated and clamped.
• Cleaver Mechanism Sticking:
  • Clean the cleaver thoroughly to remove any accumulated dust or fiber particles.
  • Ensure no foreign objects are obstructing the mechanism.

9. Warranty and Support

For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please contact your authorized EXFO distributor or reseller. Please have your product model (V1) and purchase details available when contacting support.