Which Signal Fire fibre-optic fusion splicer should you choose?

Choosing the right fibre-optic splicer is one of the key decisions for telecoms companies, network installers and fibre-optic infrastructure maintenance technicians. There are many models available on the market, which differ not only in price but also in splicing precision, operating speed, durability and additional features such as automatic calibration or advanced diagnostics. The choice of the right device should depend on the specific nature of the work to be carried out, the frequency of use and the expected quality of the connections. In this article, we will look at the most important parameters to consider before purchasing a fibre optic splicer.

Dipol’s range includes three models of fibre optic splicers manufactured by Signal Fire – a Chinese manufacturer based in Chengdu specialising in the design and production of equipment for the construction and diagnostics of fibre optic networks, such as fibre optic splicers, OTDR reflectometers, fibre cutters and optical power meters. The company has been in operation for many years and has established a strong market position by combining affordable prices with functionality that, until a few years ago, was mainly available in much more expensive devices from renowned brands. Signal Fire exports its products to over 100 countries, and its equipment is widely used in the construction of FTTH networks, operator installations and the maintenance of telecommunications infrastructure. It was this manufacturer that popularised the segment of compact, portable fibre splicers with core alignment, making professional fibre splicing more accessible to smaller firms and independent installers.

All Signal Fire splicers are affordable yet high-performance pieces of equipment.

The AI-5 Pro L5872 model is ideal for those who carry out fibre-optic installations only occasionally – for example, installers who typically work on low-voltage systems such as CCTV surveillance systems, RTV/SAT television systems, LAN networks or industrial automation systems – where fibre optics are used only occasionally and do not involve large-scale installations comprising tens or hundreds of fibres. This does not mean that this model is unsuitable for more intensive use; however, with frequent use, the advantages of the higher-end models may prove worth the extra cost.
The Signal Fire AI-5 Pro features a camera system that allows for centring on the fibre core; however, the precision of this positioning is slightly lower than that of the AI-9 model and, in particular, the AI-12. Statistically, this translates into slightly higher splice loss, particularly when splicing cables and fibres from different manufacturers and produced at different times. These splices will still be correct and durable; however, when carrying out precise OTDR measurements, the difference may (but need not!) be noticeable. Therefore, where there is a high likelihood that installations will be carried out on supplied and frequently changing material, and where the provision of precise OTDR measurements is a prerequisite for the installation, it is worth considering purchasing a higher-end model. However, if the primary requirement for the connection is simply that it works and is durable, and hundredths of a decibel in terms of attenuation are of secondary importance, the AI-5 Pro will be a good choice.

To change the splicing parameters or run the calibration function, you will need a mobile phone with the SignalFire2 app. The AI-5 Pro is fitted with a 5200 mAh battery, which allows for approximately 160 splices. That’s a lot, but if, amongst smaller installations, you come across one involving several cable connectors – for example, a 24J installation – where there is no access to a charging point, it may be worth purchasing a spare battery or considering a higher-spec model of splicer
The heating element in this model is a design the manufacturer has been using since the AI-7, released in 2017. It is a tried-and-tested solution, but the lack of an automatic lid-closing mechanism when inserting fibres and splice sleeves into the oven can be somewhat inconvenient when dealing with a large number of splices, and is certainly not standard practice these days. The furnace also lacks a tray for cooling the splice sleeves after they have been removed from the furnace.

The AI-5 Pro is supplied in a material bag. The set does not include spare electrodes. DIPOL offers a 3-year warranty on this model.

Compared to the AI-5 Pro, the AI-9 L5875 model offers:

This device is designed for those who plan to use a fusion splicer more than a few times a year, intend to use it to make connections in larger networks – e.g. for subscriber connections – or have contracts to carry out a large number of splices within a single installation – for example, in property development. In addition to low-voltage installers, companies in the ISP sector may also be interested in this device, for whom it could serve as either primary or supplementary equipment.

The AI-12 L5876 model offers the following additional features compared to the AI-9:

This device may be of interest to installers from all the groups mentioned above, as well as those involved in fault clearance or carrying out connections on larger backbone networks. This model offers all the advantages and features of the tried-and-tested lower-spec models, whilst providing better fibre positioning and slightly better accessories in the kit.

There are also slight differences in the cleavers included with the kits. The AI-5 Pro model is fitted with a Signal Fire S07 cleaver. This cutter is not fitted with a spring to automatically raise the pressure arm. This means that the installer must perform one additional movement when cutting fibres – unlike with ‘one-step’ cutters. As well as offering general convenience, ‘one-step’ solutions can prove useful in situations where you are operating the cutter with just one hand.

The Signal Fire S12 and S15 cleaver, supplied with the AI-9 and AI-12 models respectively, are ‘one-step’ cleavers that differ slightly in design. On the S15, the waste container is attached with a magnet and can be stowed away inside the cutter body when not in use. According to the manufacturer’s data, the S15 model offers statistically slightly better cut quality.