Furukawa Electric and Lightera have introduced a new class of fusion splicer technology designed to support emerging optical fiber types, including hollow-core fibers (HCF) and multi-core fibers (MCF). Unveiled at ANGA COM 2025 in Cologne, the FITEL S185EVROF fusion splicer enables field-ready precision splicing with integrated end-view visualization for highly accurate fiber alignment and polarity control.
The S185EVROF features the proprietary three-electrode Ring of Fire® arc discharge system, which heats the fiber circumference uniformly. Enhancing this is the new STA2D (Sequential Triangular Asymmetric Arc Discharging) function, which rotates electrode pairs around the fiber to deliver finely tuned thermal control—critical for maintaining the integrity of fragile hollow-core structures. With composite imaging that overlays end-view photos of the fiber ends, the splicer enables operators to detect cleave imperfections and ensure proper alignment, even in fibers with intricate core geometries.
With a compact and portable design, the S185EVROF also includes a Dual Mirror System for dual-end inspection, 0.1-degree rotational precision, and compatibility with both traditional and next-gen fibers. This combination of features aims to address growing demand for precision splicing tools in quantum networks, high-capacity datacom systems, and future metro core infrastructures.
• Supports multi-core and hollow-core fiber splicing
• STA2D rotational arc discharge improves control over splice heat
• End-view composite imaging ensures alignment and polarity verification
• Field-portable design with high rotational alignment precision
• Includes side-view and end-view modes in one unit
“The Fitel S185-ROF splicer range plays a key role in our comprehensive hollow core and multi-core ecosystems,” said David Knight, Product Line Manager for Hollow Core Solutions. “By continually integrating improvements born from our own deployment experience, we can offer the premier splicing solution for these new technologies.”