Training Content

Overview of fiber optic technology 

History and development of fiber optics 

Applications and benefits of fiber optics in various industries 

Fiber optic theory and principles 

Types of optical fibers (single-mode, multi-mode) 

Fiber optic connectors and terminations 

Safety protocols and best practices for handling fiber optics 

Personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements 

Proper disposal of fiber optic waste 

Overview of splicing tools and equipment 

Fusion splicers: types, components, and operation 

Mechanical splicers: types, components, and operation 

Cleaning and maintenance of splicing equipment 

Introduction to splicing techniques: fusion splicing and mechanical splicing 

Step-by-step guide to fusion splicing: 

Preparing the fiber (stripping, cleaning, cleaving) 

Aligning fibers in the splicer 

Performing the fusion splice 

Protecting and reinforcing the splice (heat-shrink sleeves, splice trays)- Step-by-step guide to mechanical splicing: 

 Preparing the fiber 

 Aligning fibers in the mechanical splice connector 

Securing the splice 

Ensuring high-quality splices 

Troubleshooting common splicing issues 

Minimizing splice loss 

Documentation and record-keeping for splices 

Importance of testing fiber optic splices 

Testing equipment: optical time-domain reflectometer (OTDR), optical loss test set (OLTS) 

Testing procedures and interpretation of results 

Identifying and correcting splice faults 

Hands-on practice with fusion and mechanical splicing 

Simulated splicing scenarios 

Real-world applications and case studies 

Instructor-led demonstrations and guided practice 

Certification requirements and process for CFOS/S 

Preparing for the CFOS/S certification exam 

Objective: Learn the initial steps of preparing fiber optic cables for splicing. 

Cable Stripping: Use stripping tools to remove the outer jacket of the fiber optic cable. 

Buffer Tube Removal: Safely strip the buffer tube to expose the fibers. 

Fiber Cleaning: Clean the exposed fibers using alcohol wipes to remove any debris or coating residues. 

Objective: Master the technique of cleaving fiber optic strands for splicing. 

Steps: 

Set Up Cleaver: Prepare the fiber cleaver according to the manufacturer’s instructions. 

Cleaving Technique: Place the fiber in the cleaver and perform the cleave to obtain a clean, flat end face. 

Inspect Cleave: Use a fiber inspection microscope to check the quality of the cleave. 

Objective: Conduct fusion splicing using a fusion splicer. 

Steps: 

Splicer Preparation: Set up and calibrate the fusion splicer. 

Fiber Alignment: Insert the cleaved fibers into the splicer and align them properly. 

Splicing Process: Initiate the fusion splicing process and observe the splice. 

Splice Protection: Apply a splice protection sleeve and use a heat shrink oven to secure the splice. 

Objective: Practice mechanical splicing techniques. 

Steps: 

Splice Preparation: Prepare fibers and align them in the mechanical splice connector. 

Splice Assembly: Use mechanical splicing tools to secure the fibers. 

Testing: Check the mechanical splice for continuity and signal loss using a light source and power meter. 

Objective:  Assemble and organize splices within a splice enclosure. 

Steps: 

Tray Preparation: Organize and secure splice trays within the enclosure. 

Fiber Management: Route and manage fibers in the enclosure, maintaining minimum bend radius. 

Enclosure Sealing: Seal the enclosure to protect splices from environmental factors. 

Objective: Use an Optical Time Domain Reflectometer (OTDR) to test and analyze splices. 

Steps: 

Set Up OTDR: Configure the OTDR for testing. 

Perform Test: Conduct OTDR tests to measure splice loss and locate faults. 

Analyze Results: Interpret OTDR traces to verify splice quality and identify any issues. 

Objective: Measure insertion and return loss of spliced fibers. 

Steps: 

Set Up Equipment: Use a light source and power meter for insertion loss testing. 

Perform Test: Measure insertion loss across splices and connectors. 

Return Loss Measurement: Use a return loss meter to assess reflections at splices and connectors. 

Objective: Identify and resolve common splice issues. 

Scenarios: 

High Loss Splices: Diagnose and correct high loss in splices. 

Connector Issues: Identify and fix problems with connectorized fibers. 

Environmental Factors: Address issues caused by environmental conditions       (e.g., moisture, dirt). 

Objective: Apply splicing skills in simulated real-world scenarios. 

Projects: 

Network Installation: Perform splicing for a complete fiber optic link installation. 

Maintenance and Repair: Conduct maintenance and repair on existing fiber optic networks. 

Documentation: Document all splicing activities, test results, and troubleshooting steps.