A fiber connector and a splice are both used in fiber optic communication systems, but they serve different purposes and have distinct characteristics.
A fiber connector is a mechanical device used to join fiber optic cables together or to connect a cable to an active device, such as a transceiver or a switch. It provides a removable connection that allows for easy installation, maintenance, and reconfiguration of the network. Fiber connectors typically consist of a ferrule, which holds the fiber in place, and a connector body that provides the mechanical housing and alignment mechanism. The most common types of fiber connectors include SC, LC, ST, and MPO/MTP connectors. Fiber connectors are widely used in applications where frequent connections and disconnections are required, such as in data centers or for temporary network setups.
On the other hand, a splice is a permanent or semi-permanent fusion of two fiber optic cables. The process of splicing involves aligning and joining the individual fibers of the cables through a combination of heat and pressure. The aim is to create a low-loss, low-reflectance connection between the fibers to ensure efficient transmission of light signals. Splices are typically used in situations where a permanent or long-term connection is needed, such as in outdoor installations or in underground fiber optic networks. There are two main types of splices: fusion splices, which use heat to melt and fuse the fibers together, and mechanical splices, which use mechanical alignment and clamping mechanisms to join the fibers.
In summary, fiber connectors provide a removable and adaptable connection between fiber optic cables, while splices create a permanent or semi-permanent fusion of fibers for long-term connections. Connectors are used for applications requiring frequent changes or reconfigurations, while splices are employed when a more durable and robust connection is needed.
