Sumitomo Electric Releases the Q102-M12+, a New AI-Programmed Fusion Splicer — A mass fusion splicer featuring NanoTune™ —

Sumitomo Electric Releases the Q102-M12+, a New AI-Programmed Fusion Splicer — A mass fusion splicer featuring NanoTune™ —

Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd. will launch sales of the Q102-M12+, a new fusion splicer, in September 2023. NanoTune™, whose splicing accuracy and efficiency have been significantly improved by our patented artificial intelligence (AI) technology, has been applied to mass splicing.

The Q102-M12+ is the successor model to the Q102-M12 mass fusion splicer. In addition to the features of the previous model, such as lightweight and compact frame, fast splicing, and high environmental durability, the Q102-M12+ offers new features, including NanoTune™, our patented AI technology, making it possible to install ultra-high-density high-fiber-count cables, whose demand has been growing mainly for data centers, more quickly and with higher quality.

The main features of the Q102-M12+ :

(1) Significant reduction in splicing failures with NanoTune™
Our patented AI technology is used for mass splicing. Splicing conditions can be tuned with higher accuracy by recognizing the end face of each fiber. NanoTune™ supports high-quality mass splicing regardless of operating conditions and user skill. This technology also drastically reduces the need for re-splicing due to insufficient fiber preparation, such as poor cleaving.

(2) Further improvement of high-accuracy fiber clamping by the Auto Clamping Adjustment System (ACAS)
The technology to automate reliable setting of optical fibers in the V-grooves, whose failure poses issues in mass splicing, has been further improved. It has become possible to set optical fibers along the V-grooves more reliably by moving the clamp mechanism up and down. Highly accurate fiber clamping reduces splicing losses.

(3) Special coating on V-grooves and the microscope lens cover for easy daily maintenance
A special anti-fouling surface coating has been developed to prevent fouling of the V-grooves, which immediately leads to the deterioration of splicing performance. The coating allows fouling to be easily wiped off a brush or cotton swab to maintain, high-quality splicing. The anti-fouling and anti-scratch coating is also applied to the glass cover to protect the microscope, which plays a key role in observing the end face of tiny fibers. The effectiveness of NanoTune™ is maximized by constantly maintaining clear images through regular cleaning.

(4) V-grooves replacement function for ultra-high-fiber-count high-density cables
A V-groove replacement function has been added. The product can be used for 200μm-pitch fiber ribbons in addition to 250μm-pitch fiber ribbons. Any user can easily replace the V-grooves without special tools. Users can readily replace parts in the case of an emergency, such as damage to the V-grooves.

With the spread of telecommuting, telemedicine, and online lessons, the need for high-speed, large-capacity, and low-latency communication networks is expected to increase. The Sumitomo Electric Group continues to contribute to the construction of communication networks by developing and offering products that meet customer’s need, such as further improving workability, ensuring reliability, and improving functionality and expandability.

Main specifications of the Q102-M12+

*1 Wireless LAN connection may not be available in some countries.
*2 A system for overall management of various types of information regarding splicing on the cloud. Management is possible with a linked smartphone.

References:
・Sumitomo Electric’s website on fusion splicers:
https:/global-sei.com/sumitomo-electric-splicers/
・LinkedIn^*3（Sumitomo Electric Fusion Splicer）：
https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/sumitomoelectricfusionsplicer/
・Facebook^*4（Sumitomo Electric Fusion Splicer）：
https://www.facebook.com/sumitomoelectricsplicer/

*3 LinkedIn is a trademark or registered trademark of LinkedIn Corporation and/or its affiliates in the U.S. and other countries.
*4 Facebook is a trademark or registered trademark of Meta Platforms, Inc. in the U.S. and other countries.