Fujikura Europe, one of the world's leading manufacturers of fibre optic cables and equipment has launched the world's smallest single fibre fusion splicer, the 12S, to the international market. At just 121mm wide, 162mm deep and 57mm high it is the most portable and ergonomic splicer ever developed.

The 12S is the latest addition to the fusion splicer range of products from Fujikura. It has been specifically designed for fibre installation in small narrow spaces and has a series of new features which include a high "energy density" Li-ion battery providing extended battery life. The 12S is capable of performing more than 100 splices on a single charge. The 12S is also fully compatible with the FuseConnect series of 'splice-on' connectors

The fixed v-groove and dual- axis observation system is specialised to enable reliable splicing between 0.05dB SM and 0.02dB MM. The unit also includes a high-resolution LCD monitor, much larger than the previous one which provides a clear image of the fibre with viability for use in both indoor and outdoor conditions.

" We pride ourselves on developing technology which offers simple yet high quality solutions for the end- user, in this case making splicing jobs as simple and easy as possible. The 12S not only comes with the assurance of practicality but also the backing of quality support from Fujikura to ensure customers aftercare they can rely on," said Roy Higgins, Deputy Managing Director of Fujikura Europe,

The 12S also has a redesigned carry case which doubles up as a 'place and splice' table with a stable detachable working table for mobile operation whilst performing splices on aerial jobs.

"The 12S is now the most practical and compact single fibre splicer on the market. Many years of research and design have gone into improving our single splice offering and we expect this product to be very popular with engineers working in the field on FTTH, metro, LAN and data centre splice jobs," added Higgins.