Baudcom BD-FS-30 Optical Fiber Fusion Splicer User Manual

Important Warnings

Warning: Ignore the warning, non-proper use of fusion splicer could lead to fatal and serious injury.

1. The input voltage of this model of machine is definite; please do not use the voltage outside the scope. Please use the correct AC and DC power supply.
2. When the fusion splicer encounters failures such as smoke, smell, noise anomaly, broken or damaged machines, or liquid/foreign matter ingress, immediately remove the AC power cord and turn off the fusion splicer. Failure to do so may lead to irreparable damage, personal injury, death, and fire.

This model of fusion splicer does not require internal component maintenance. Dismantling of the fusion splicer and power modules is prohibited; any mistake in maintenance can lead to the machine being beyond repair and may cause bodily harm.

The machine has strict limitations on the power supply module used.

The fusion splicer is prohibited from being used in environments with inflammable liquid or flammable gas, as this may lead to fire, explosion, and other serious consequences.

Disclaimer Clause: The Company does not assume any liability for all damage caused by the use of non-original batteries.

To avoid possible wrong operation or insecurity, a valid ground three-hole socket must be used when connecting the AC/DC adaptor to AC 220V 50HZ power.

1. Brief Introduction

Baudcom specializes in the production of optical fiber fusion splicers, optical fiber cleavers, OTDRs, light sources, optical power meters, and other optical communication instrument high-tech enterprises. Their fiber splicing machines are widely used by major domestic telecommunications operators in China (China Telecom, China Mobile, Unicom) and the radio and television industry. They are also exported globally to South America, Europe, Russia, Southeast Asia, and Africa.

1.1 Specifications

1.2 Configuration of Fusion Splicer

The standard configurations of the fusion splicer include:

1.3 Parts Name of Fusion Splicer

The main components of the fusion splicer are:

• Windshield
• Power switch
• LCD (Liquid Crystal Display)
• Heater
• Keyboard
• Power Module

(Description of image: A front view of the Baudcom BD-FS-30 fusion splicer, with labels pointing to the windshield, power switch, LCD screen, heater unit, keyboard interface, and power module.)

1.4 Descriptions of the Keyboard

The fusion splicer features both a left and a right keyboard for operation.

(Description of image: Two sets of buttons are shown. The left keyboard includes buttons for power, menu navigation (up, down, left, right, enter/select), and a help function. The right keyboard includes buttons labeled HEAT, ARC, RESET, X/Y, and SET.)

Membrane figure of left and right keyboards

2. Basic Operation

This Fusion Splicer is designed to splice many types of fiber using core diameter aiming rationale. Its shape is compact and lightweight, suitable for field work. Operation is simple, fusion speed is high, and fusion loss is small.

2.1 Descriptions of the Power Modules

The Fusion Splicer uses a 2-in-1 power module design. It can be powered by the internal polymer lithium-ion battery or by an AC adapter. When the AC adapter is used, the lithium battery is charged simultaneously. The battery pack to be used must be the model specified by Baudcom.

2.2 AC Operation

When AC power supply is adopted, the AC/DC adapter supplied by the company should be used. The basic parameters of the adapter are:

• INPUT: AC100-240V~1.8A 50/60HZ
• OUTPUT: DC13.5V/5A

The AC/DC adapter may not provide normal DC output if the input AC voltage is lower than 100V or higher than 240V. In such situations, the DC output line of the adapter must not be inserted into the “POWER INPUT” port on the power module of the Fusion Splicer, as this will result in damage to the splicer.

If a lithium battery is installed, it will also be charged when the adapter is supplying power. It is recommended to shut down the Fusion Splicer while charging.

2.3 Battery Supply Operation

Users can choose to use the polymer lithium battery to power the Fusion Splicer independently.

2.3.1 Checking of Battery Capacity

When the power module is not in the charging state, press the "PUSH" button on the flank of the power module. The four battery capacity indicator lights (red) on the left side will illuminate. The number of lit lights indicates the battery capacity level.

(Description of image: A close-up view of the side of the power module showing four red LED indicator lights labeled 'CHARGE' and 'LIGHT', with a finger pressing the 'PUSH' button.)

When the power module is in the charging state, the four battery capacity indicator lights (red) will be bright, indicating the current charge voltage, not necessarily the full capacity of the battery.

2.3.2 Battery Charging

• When the AC power adapter is inserted into the “POWER INPUT” port, the power module will start charging, regardless of the current battery capacity.
• Charging Status Display: During charging, the CHARGE indicator light is red. After charging is complete, the CHARGE indicator light turns green.
• When the splicer is shut down, the maximum charging time is three hours 40 minutes, and the shortest is 40 minutes. Charging time depends on the current battery capacity.
• If the splicer is charged while active, the charging time will be longer. It is recommended to charge the battery when the splicer is shut down to shorten the charging time.

2.3.3 Under Voltage Alarm

This fusion splicer features an "Under Voltage Alarm". If the lithium battery capacity drops below a specified value (defaulting to around 10.3V), the splicer will automatically alarm and lock the keyboard to disable input. The user should press the ⏻ button until the Fusion Splicer shuts down, then charge the lithium battery pack as soon as possible or use the adapter to supply power.

2.3.4 Other Considerations for Battery

• If the fusion splicer is not used for more than 1 month, it is suggested to separate the lithium battery and the machine for storage.
• The lithium battery should be charged in an environmental temperature ranging between 0℃ to +40℃.
• Batteries have a service life and are consumables. If the fusion splicer operates for a short time despite the battery level being above 90%, the battery should be replaced with a model designated by Baudcom.
• Before using the battery for power supply, check the battery level. If the battery is low or a low voltage warning is given, recharge the lithium battery promptly.
• Do not charge or discharge the battery in low temperatures for extended periods to prevent decreased battery life. Charging or discharging the battery, or using a special battery charger and battery in high temperatures, may cause accidents.
• When charging the battery with the special battery charger, immediately disconnect the charger once the battery is fully charged. Leaving a fully charged battery under charging state may cause damage or accidents.
• The battery should be stored in a clean, dry, and ventilated indoor environment with a temperature ranging from -5℃ to +35℃ and humidity of 65±20%RH.
• If the battery is stored for a long time, it should be charged with the special charger provided by Baudcom once every 90 days. Keeping the battery half-charged for extended periods may extend its life.
• It is prohibited to remove the battery without explicit approval or to dispose of it in fire to prevent battery explosion.

2.4 Turn On and Turn Off

Turn On

Press the ⏻ button on the operator panel until the LED indicator lights turn from red to green, then release the button. When all motors return to their initial position, the screen displays the reset menu.

Turn Off

Press and hold the ⏻ button on the operator panel until the LED indicator turns from green to red, then release the button. The machine is now turned off.

(Description of image: A finger is shown pressing the power button on the splicer's operator panel.)

2.5 Display Brightness Control

Users can adjust the display brightness for better visibility depending on the external environment. Brightness control is performed in the "standby" operation interface.

• Press the ▼ or ▲ buttons in the "standby" operation interface to change the display brightness.
• Press the ⌤ button to confirm the brightness changes and return to the "standby" operation interface.

When the display brightness is moderate, capacity loss can be reduced, and battery endurance can be prolonged.

(Description of images: Two screenshots of the splicer's LCD. The first shows 'READY!' status with various settings. The second shows a 'LCD Brightness' control with a slider set to 100, and a value of 30 below it.)

2.6 Cover Fiber Protection Sleeve

This section details the installation of the fiber protection sleeve.

2.7 Preparation of Fiber End-Face

1. Open the large and small clips of the fiber cleaver; push the sliding plate with the blade from the end to the front.
2. Use fiber stripping pliers to strip the fiber coating layer to a length of 30-40 mm. Use gauze dipped in alcohol or a soft wadding to wipe the fiber clean. Wipe with a clean cotton cloth once; do not use the same cloth for a second cleaning. (Note: Please use alcohol with a purity of more than 99%.)

(Description of images: Two images show fiber preparation. The first shows fiber stripping pliers being used on a fiber. The second shows a clean, stripped fiber end.)

3. Aim the edge of the fiber coating layer at the "16" calibration mark on the cleaver's yardstick. Place the fiber into the orientation pressure tank with the left hand, ensuring the bare fiber is straightly positioned on the right and left rubber pads.
4. Close the small clip and the large clip with the right hand, and advance the sliding plate with the blade to the other side, then cut the fiber.
5. Hold the cleaver with the left hand and open the large clip with the right hand to remove the fiber chips, placing them in fixed containers.
6. Pinch and hold the fiber with the left hand, open the small clip with the right hand simultaneously, and carefully remove the fiber.

The clean cross-section of the fiber must not touch other objects.

2.8 Place Fiber

1. Open the shielding cover and the left and right fiber clips.
2. Place the prepared fiber end face into the V-shaped groove, ensuring the tip of the fiber is positioned between the tip of the electrode and the edge of the V-shaped groove.

If the fiber is bent, the bent part should be upward when placing the fiber.

To ensure splice quality, the clean cross-section of the fiber must not touch other objects.

3. Use fingers to pinch the fiber, then close the left clip, and press the fiber. Ensure the fiber is placed at the bottom of the V-shaped groove. If the fiber is placed incorrectly, replace it. The fiber end face must not touch the V-shaped groove when placing the fiber.
4. Place the second optical fiber according to the above steps.
5. Close the shielding cover.

(Description of image: A close-up view inside the fusion splicer showing the V-grooves and electrodes where the fiber is placed.)

3. Check and Maintenance

Critical cleaning points and maintenance checks are described below.

3.1 Cleaning V-grooves

If contaminants are present in the V-grooves, proper clamping may not occur, resulting in higher splice loss. The V-grooves should be frequently inspected and periodically cleaned during normal operation. To clean the V-grooves:

• Open the wind protector.
• Clean the bottom of the V-groove with an alcohol-impregnated thin cotton swab. Remove excess alcohol from the V-groove with a clean dry swab.

Be careful not to contact the electrode tips.

Do not use excessive force when cleaning the V-groove, as the V-groove arm may get damaged.

If contaminants in the V-groove cannot be removed with an alcohol-impregnated thin cotton swab, use a cleaved fiber end-face to dislodge contaminants from the bottom of the V-groove. Repeat the cleaning procedure afterwards.

(Description of images: Two images show the cleaning of V-grooves using a cotton swab.)

3.2 Cleaning Fiber Clamp Chips

If contaminants are present on the clamp chips, proper clamping may not occur, resulting in poor quality splices. The fiber clamp chips should be frequently inspected and periodically cleaned during normal operation.

To clean the clamp chips:

• Open the wind protector.
• Clean the surface of the chip clamp with an alcohol-impregnated thin cotton swab. Remove excess alcohol from the chip clamp with a clean dry swab.

3.3 Cleaning Wind Protector Mirrors

If the wind protector mirrors become dirty, the fiber core position may be incorrect due to decreased optical path clarity, resulting in higher splice loss. To clean the mirrors:

• Clean the mirror surface with an alcohol-impregnated thin cotton swab.
• Remove excess alcohol from the mirror surface with a clean dry swab. The mirror surface should look clean with no streaks or smudges.

3.4 Cleaning Objective Lenses

If the objective lenses' surface becomes dirty, normal observation of the core position may be incorrect, resulting in higher splice loss or poor splicer operation. Clean both lenses at regular intervals; otherwise, dirt may accumulate and become impossible to remove.

• Before cleaning the objective lenses, always turn off the splicer. Do not hit or touch the tip of the electrode when cleaning it.
• Gently clean the surface of the lenses (X-axis and Y-axis) with an alcohol-impregnated thin cotton swab. Start at the center of the lens and move the swab in a circular motion, spiraling out to the edge. Remove excess alcohol with a clean dry swab. The lens surface should be clean and free of streaks or smudges.
• Turn on the power and check the monitor screen to ensure no smudges or streaks are visible on the lens surface on both the X- and Y-screens. Perform a dust check.

(Description of image: A cotton swab is shown cleaning an objective lens inside the fusion splicer.)

3.5 Replace Electrodes

Electrodes wear with use and accumulate silica oxide buildup. It is recommended that electrodes be replaced after 1,000 arc discharges. When the number of arc discharges reaches 1,000, a prompt to replace electrodes will be displayed upon turning on the power. Using electrodes beyond their lifespan will result in greater splice loss and reduced splice strength.

Replace Electrodes Procedure:

• Press the ⏻ button on the operator panel until the LED indicator turns from red to green, then release the button to turn off the machine.
• Remove the old electrodes:
  • Loosen the screw located on the electrode cover.
  • Take the electrode out of the electrode cover. (The electrode is fixed in the electrode cover).
• Clean the new electrodes with alcohol-impregnated clean gauze or lint-free tissue and install them in the splicer.
• Place the electrode cover and tighten the screw.

Do not pull out the night light wiring when replacing electrodes.

The tightening of the screw should not exceed finger strength.

(Description of image: A close-up view inside the splicer showing electrodes, with a tool being used to loosen a screw on the electrode cover.)

3.6 Set Calendar

This function sets the date and time in the splicer's incorporated calendar.

• In the [Maintenance Menu 1] Menu, press the ◀ or ▶ buttons to move the cursor and select [Calendar].
• Press the ⌤ button to enter the [Current Calendar] interface. Move the cursor to select the item to be changed, then press the ▲ or ▼ buttons to adjust the value.
• After completing the calendar setting, press the ⌤ button. The date and time are stored.

(Description of image: A screenshot of the splicer's 'Maintenance Menu 1' showing the 'Current Calendar' with fields for Year-Month-Date, Day, and Hour:Minute:Second, along with navigation and selection controls.)

4. Change the Spare Lithium Battery Pack

Follow these procedures to change the spare battery:

4.1 Open the cover of the battery case

Lean the Fusion Splicer and open the cover of the battery case, which is located at the bottom of the Fusion Splicer.

(Description of image: A hand is shown releasing a latch to open the battery compartment cover on the bottom of the splicer.)

4.2 Remove the old battery

Remove the lithium battery pack from the power module of the Fusion Splicer.

4.3 Place new battery pack

Align the card slot, place the new battery into the power module, ensure it is plugged in tightly, and then close the cover of the battery case.

(Description of image: A hand is shown inserting a battery pack into the battery compartment of the splicer.)

5. Power Supply

Power does not turn off when pressing the power button: Press and hold the ⏻ button until the LED color changes from red to green. Release the button to shut off the machine.

A few splices can be made with a fully charged battery pack.

Battery Performance Notes:

• The battery pack uses chemical reactions; its capacity decreases at low temperatures, especially below 0 degrees Celsius.
• At high altitudes, the arc discharge current increases, causing battery power to degrade faster due to higher power consumption.
• Ensure the AC/DC adapter is the model supplied by Baudcom, and that charging time is sufficient.
• The “CHARGE” LED on the AC adapter blinks during battery recharge.
• Avoid charging the battery in excessively high atmospheric temperatures (over 50 degrees C) or under direct sunlight.
• If the battery pack has a fault or has reached the end of its service life, install a new battery pack. If the LED blinks again after installation, contact the nearest sales agency.
• The AC/DC adapter must be the model supplied by Baudcom.

Addenda A: Summary of Quick Operating

I. Preparing

1. Verify the machine is plugged in or the battery capacity is sufficient. Then press and hold the ⏻ button until the machine boots up.
2. In standby mode, press the ☰ button to enter the "Splice Menu". Navigate to [Operation Options] and press ⌤ to enter. Set [Auto Start] to “ON”, and [pause 1], [pause 2] to “OFF”.

3. Discharge Calibration*

Discharge calibration is necessary due to constant changes in atmospheric conditions (temperature, pressure) and machine usage, which can create variability in arc temperature and position.

Step of discharge calibration:

In [Ready] mode, press the ☰ button to enter the "Splice Menu". Prepare and place the fiber as described in fiber preparation. Close the wind protector. Press the ⌤ button to enter [Arc Calibration]. Discharge calibration starts automatically. It is recommended to repeatedly prepare and place fiber in the calibration interface until the "Step II of discharge calibration completed" message is displayed three times.

* Discharge calibration is needed only when arc power fluctuates strongly; it is not necessary upon every boot. After calibration, the machine will adjust the arc discharge current based on the results to ensure fusion quality.

II. Fiber Preparation

1. Put the tube over one end of the fiber.
2. Use fiber stripping pliers to strip the fiber coating layer to a length of 30-40 mm. Use gauze dipped in alcohol or wadding to wrap the fiber, then clean the bare part.
3. Use a fiber cleaver to cut the fiber. Bare fiber length should be approximately 16 mm.
4. Place the finished fiber into the Fusion Splicer. The cross-section of the fiber must not touch other things.

III. Cover the wind protector

After covering the wind protector, the fiber fusion automatically starts, and the splicing loss is displayed.

IV. Reinforce the fusion point

1. Transfer the fiber with the protection sleeve from the V-grooves to the tube heater.
2. Ensure the splice point is located at the center of the protection sleeve. Place the tube at the center of the heater.
3. Press the ? (HEAT) button to start tube heating. The buzzer will beep, and the HEAT LED will turn off when tube heating is completed.
4. Remove the tube from the heater once it has cooled. The fusion operation is now complete.

V. Repeat Steps II, III, IV to continue splicing.

Addenda B: Guarantee Period and Limits

The following occurrences are not covered under warranty:

• Malfunction or damage caused by user's inadvertent actions (including physical damage, damp short circuit).
• Product damage caused by nature disasters (earthquakes, fires, floods, lightning, typhoons, etc.) or force majeure.
• Other failure or damage due to improper use, improper installation, or configuration with non-original batteries and accessories or other external factors (such as voltage instability).
• Unauthorized disassembly or repair.
• Consumable parts (such as electrodes, cleaver blades, carrying cases, etc.).

Before shipping the splicer for service, please consult Baudcom or the nearest sales agency first.

Necessary Information Needed for Repair:

(Please provide the following information):

• Your full name, section, division, company, address, phone number, fax number, and e-mail address.
• Model name and serial number of the splicer.
• Problems encountered:
  • What problems did your splicer get into and when?
  • What is its present operational state?
  • The state of the monitor and the contents of any relevant error messages.

Addenda C: Contact

Notice: This Company's products are ameliorated continually; modifications will not be informed.

Website: www.baudcom.com.cn

Tel: +86 21 37709251

Email: info@baudcom.com.cn