by Greg | Sep 18, 2011 | Equipment
There seems to be a fair bit of confusion surrounding the topic of how to calibrate a arc fusion splicer. This question crops up from time to time, from both project supervision level personnel to the hands on techs in the field. When using the word ‘calibration’ with regards to arc fusion splicers there are really two meanings. The first meaning factory calibration and the second, arc calibration. Just for the record we are talking about factory calibration in this article. A field supervisor/engineer asks; Are your splicers factory calibrated? The answer is no . There is no way to “factory calibrate” a fusion splicer. The looks on their faces are priceless. The answer they are excepted would be, “Yes they are.” A technician asks; Should I send my machines in for re-calibratation? I heard all they do is clean them. I can do that myself. The answer is yes. Send that machine in every couple of year and have if looked over by the professionals. Confused yet? Well don’t be. Both answers are correct. Let me explain. Although the term ‘calibration’ is used when describing the accuracy and reliable of an arc fusion splicer, there is no way to calibrate a splicer. At least not in the sense when thinking of measuring instruments like an OTDR or power meters. Both of these are devices that can and should be calibrated at a minimum of once per year. Rather in the case of the fusion splicer, it is recommended to have periodic service and routine maintenance preformed to maintain optimum performance. Although you’re not sending it in for calibration per...
