The Pitch for 200µm Ribbon Splicing

200µm ribbon fibers represent a significant advancement in fiber optic technology, enabling higher density in smaller cables. Compared to traditional 250µm ribbons, their reduced size provides a transformative solution for high-density networks. The Sumitomo Electric Q102-M12+ splicer is uniquely suited for splicing both 200µm and 250µm ribbon fibers, making it a versatile tool for this evolving technology. Additionally, with pitch conversion holders (PCH-12A for group-bonded fibers and PCH-12V for partially bonded fibers), the Q102-M12+ facilitates seamless integration of 200µm and 250µm fibers.

The evolution of ribbon fibers has revolutionized fiber optic networks. Initially, 250µm flat ribbons were standard, but the development of pliable ribbons significantly reduced cable size by approximately 50%. The transition from 250µm pliable to 200µm pliable ribbons further decreased cable size by an additional 30%, allowing for extremely high-fiber-count cables. This innovation, originally developed for data centers, is now expanding into all network segments.

1. Technical Specifications

Comparison of Ribbon Fiber Types

Features of the Q102-M12+

• Enhanced Auto-Clamping Adjustment System (ACAS): Minimizes offsets for improved splice accuracy.
• Replaceable V-Grooves: Interchangeable between 250µm and 200µm ribbons.
• Special Coatings: Protects V-Grooves and camera lens covers.
• Pitch Conversion Holders: PCH-12A for group-bonded fibers, PCH-12V for partially bonded fibers. 

2. Challenges in Splicing 200µm Ribbon Fibers

Splicing 200µm ribbon fibers presents unique challenges, particularly when connecting them to traditional 250µm ribbons. Aligning these two types of fibers requires pitch conversion, a process facilitated by specialized pitch conversion holders. Additionally, tools like heated jacket removers must be tailored to handle the smaller coating size of 200µm fibers.

The Q102-M12+ splicer addresses these challenges by:

• Providing pitch conversion holders for different fiber bonding types.
• Integrated Enhanced ACAS to reduce splice offsets.
• Offering precision settings for 200µm splicing.

3. Splicing Process

Standard Process for 200µm Ribbon Fibers

1. Preparation:
   • Clean, strip, and cleave fibers as usual.
2. Configuration:
   • Select the appropriate V-Groove for 200µm ribbons.
   • Use the SM Auto program for optimal splice settings.
3. Splicing:
   • Place the fibers into the splicer for alignment and fusion.
4. Inspection:
   • Verify splice integrity and ensure no fiber overlap.

Pitch Conversion Process

When splicing 200µm ribbons to 250µm:

1. Insert 200µm fibers into the PCH-12A or PCH-12V holder.
2. Perform pitch conversion.
3. Proceed with the standard splicing practices.
   

For a walk-through on the pitch conversion process, see the video above.

Best Practices

• Maintain cleanliness throughout the process.
• Ensure fibers are properly aligned without overlap.

4. Performance Analysis

The splice loss for 200µm ribbons is equivalent to that of 250µm ribbons, as the only difference lies in the coating size and bonding method. Field data demonstrates remarkable reliability, with some customers achieving a failure rate of less than 2% when splicing 6912 200µm fibers to 1728 250µm fibers.

5. Applications

Initially designed for data centers, 200µm ribbons are now widely applicable across network types. Their smaller size allows for extremely high fiber counts in compact cables, which is vital for modern high-capacity networks. As a result, 200µm technology is becoming increasingly prevalent in metro, access, and long-haul network segments.

6. Conclusion

The transition to 200µm ribbon fibers marks a pivotal advancement in fiber optic technology. By enabling higher-density cabling, these fibers save space while maintaining performance. The Sumitomo Electric Q102-M12+ splicer, with its innovative features and pitch conversion holders, simplifies the splicing process, making 200µm fibers a viable solution for all network types. As major fiber manufacturers continue to develop 200µm solutions, this technology is poised to dominate future network expansions.

For further information and technical resources, visit Sumitomo Electric Lightwave online.