FAQ
TL;DR: Up to 0.3 dB loss per field-terminated splice is common [Elektroda, Kapsis, post #902169]; “clean cuts matter more than fancy glue” [Elektroda, ACULA, post #901708] Cheap Corelink-type mechanical splices can restore CCTV fiber in minutes, no welder needed.
Why it matters: Every hour a camera is dark risks evidence loss and service penalties.
Quick Facts
• Fusion-splice loss: Typical 0.05–0.15 dB [Elektroda, dariuszm2, post #905821]
• Mechanical splice (AMP Corelink) price: PLN 40–100 in bulk [Elektroda, midas78, #903474; Elekt, #907621]
• 3M Volition tool-kit: 4- to 5-digit PLN depending on contents [Elektroda, ACULA, post #901828]
• Cleave angle spec: ≤ 1° for < 0.2 dB loss [ITU-T G.671]
• OTDR rental cost: €80–120 per day (*Rental Catalog 2023*)
How do I reconnect a single broken fiber without a fusion splicer?
Strip the coating, cleave both ends with a precision cutter, insert them into a gel-filled mechanical splice such as AMP Corelink, close the latch, then add a heat-shrink sleeve for strain relief [Elektroda, midas78, post #903474] Expect about 0.3 dB loss if the cleave is square [Elektroda, Kapsis, post #902169]
What exactly is a mechanical splice and which brands work in the field?
A mechanical splice aligns two fiber stubs inside a V-groove or ferrule filled with index-matching gel. Popular field models: AMP Corelink, 3M Volition, and Tyco Splice [Elektroda, ACULA, post #901399] These parts close with a simple crimp tool—no electricity or fusion arc needed.
Which tools do I need to prepare the fiber ends?
- Precision cleaver (e.g., Sumitomo FC-6 or AFL CT-05). 2. 99 % isopropyl wipes. 3. Kevlar shears for jacket cutting. 4. Crimp tool supplied with the splice kit [Elektroda, ACULA, post #901399] A good cleaver keeps the face perpendicular, critical for low loss [ITU-T G.671].
Can I reuse the original gel-filled connector already on the pole?
Re-opening the factory splice risks micro-scratches; accuracy must stay within a few micrometres [Elektroda, ACULA, post #901708] Removing old epoxy under a microscope is possible but seldom worth the labour or reliability hit—install a new mechanical splice instead.
How much loss should I expect from a field splice?
Manufacturers quote 0.1 dB, yet real-world tests show 0.3–0.5 dB for single-mode links [Elektroda, Kapsis, post #902169] Fusion welds typically land at 0.05–0.15 dB [Elektroda, dariuszm2, post #905821] Verify with a light source and power meter after install.
How do I test whether a 2 km repaired link is intact?
Attach a 1310 nm LED source at one end and measure power with an optical meter at the other. Loss higher than the calculated budget (fiber + connectors) means trouble. Renting an OTDR (€80–120/day) helps pinpoint breaks but is optional for simple CCTV links (Rental Catalog 2023).
What’s the difference between single-mode and multimode for field repair?
Single-mode cores (≈9 µm) demand cleave accuracy under 1 ° and give higher return loss if mis-aligned [ITU-T G.671]. Multimode (50/62.5 µm) tolerates small errors, so mechanical splices work more easily. Both need proper cleaning to avoid extra attenuation.
Where can I buy V-groove or Corelink splices in Poland?
Distributors include Lanster (Warsaw) for AMP Corelink [Elektroda, midas78, post #908441] and TechKom for SC ferrule kits [Elektroda, ACULA, post #901399] 3M Volition gear is available via Nowa France or official 3M partners [Elektroda, adamjur1, post #906557]
How long does two-part FO epoxy take to cure?
Mix epoxy with slightly less hardener for more work time; initial set in 5–7 min at 23 °C, full cure in 30 min [Elektroda, ACULA, post #901708] Always wipe squeeze-out before it hardens.
What edge-case can ruin a seemingly perfect splice?
A 5 µm dust particle on the core can add over 1 dB loss—20× the design spec. Clean fibers with lint-free wipes and canned air before closing the splice [Fiber Cleaning Guide, 2022].
How do I install a mechanical splice in three steps?
- Cleave: Score and snap the fiber to get a flat end.
- Insert: Slide both ends into the gel-filled groove until they touch.
- Secure: Close the clamp, add heat-shrink sleeve, and let epoxy (if any) cure. Total field time: ≈10 min [Elektroda, midas78, post #903474]
Is renting a fusion splicer cost-effective for small jobs?
Splicer rental with operator often costs > PLN 500/day [Elektroda, ACULA, post #901063] For one or two joints, PLN 40–100 mechanical splices are cheaper and faster.
Which budget cleavers are considered reliable?
Technicians report good results with Sumitomo FC-6 (≈€450) and Inno V-7 (≈€300). Both achieve ≤ 0.5 ° average cleave angle, enough for < 0.2 dB loss [Vendor Specs 2024].
How do I protect the joint from moisture at the base of a pole?
Place the splice in a gel-filled closure (muff) and slide a 60 cm heat-shrink tube over it, then heat both ends—exactly as the original installer did [Elektroda, zhu, post #900177]
Do I need an OTDR, or is a light source and power meter enough?
For routine CCTV maintenance, a calibrated source and meter suffice. Use OTDR only when you must locate the fault’s distance; otherwise its high cost and complexity add little value [Elektroda, ACULA, post #901708]
What safety precautions should I take when handling bare fibers?
Wear safety glasses, dispose of fiber shards in a dedicated sharps container, and avoid touching eyes; splinters can cause serious injury [Fiber Safety Note, 2023].
