Sumitomo Electric Lightwave Introduces Touch-Screen Fusion Splicer

RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, NC — Sumitomo Electric Lightwave, which designs and manufactures optical fiber and connectivity solutions, introduced the Quantum Type-Q101-CA Dual-Heater Core Alignment Fusion Splicer - the first model of its new Quantum Splicer product line. The splicer will be available in September 2011.

Incorporating findings from end-user research and needs analyses, Sumitomo Electric’s Quantum Splicer addresses technicians' needs for easier and faster splicer functionality, significantly expanded memory storage, improved ruggedness and optimum splicing efficiencies in speed and performance.

To address requirements for ease and speed of use, Sumitomo made the Quantum fusion splicer with a fully functional touch-screen interface, which makes navigation more intuitive, faster, and easier than with traditional keypad interfaces. (A keypad is also included for those who prefer that interface.) An SD port allows virtually unlimited data storage, along with the capability of downloading and uploading splicing project data, training videos, audio, and software.

Without compromising full splicing functionality, performance, or ruggedness, the Quantum splicer is small (4.72"W x 6.06"D x 4.96"H), light (4.4 lbs) and easy to carry and work with in the small, confined spaces common in data center, enterprise network, FTTx and outside-plant work environments. Despite its small footprint and light weight, the Quantum Splicer boasts a 640 x 320 fiber view and long electrode life, while complying with the most stringent shock, waterproof, and dust-resistance requirements.

“By listening to the customer, we have launched the most advanced, reliable, and user-friendly splicer in the industry,” comments Joshua Seawell, manager of the Lightwave Network Products division at Sumitomo Electric Lightwave. “We thank our customers for their valuable input, which is the foundation of our continued leadership in providing the best that fusion splicing technology has to offer.“

The Quantum Splicer also features a user-selectable fiber placement system, Li-ion battery, metal hood and Sumitomo Electric’s standard dual-heater system, which has been upgraded with a 20-second reduction in combined splice and heater cycle time, yielding one of the fastest splicers on the market. The splicer is also compatible with the Lynx2 CustomFit Splice-On Connectors for customized, on-site cable builds and terminations.