Fujikura Europe has launched its 90S+ fusion splicer for engineers working on network upgrades and maintenance across Europe, as internet usage continues to surge.
According to reports, internet use in some European nations more than doubled in 2020 as families and businesses went online to stay connected. In the UK, Openreach said customers consumed 50,000 petabytes of data in the year, compared with 22,000 in 2019. While Vodafone has reported a 50% increase in internet traffic in Europe since the pandemic began.
As the surge in usage puts more strain on network infrastructure, network operators have had to rely on regular maintenance and upgrades to keep people online, meaning engineers’ work schedules are even busier.
To help network operators and engineers speed up work on the network, Fujikura’s new 90S+ splicer makes the entire splicing process faster and easier. With market-first fully automated features, the 90S+ uses Active Blade Management technology to improve the efficiency of the cleaver to reduce costs and boost productivity. It also has new Active Fusion Control Technology, which analyses the condition of the cleaver end face to perform optimal fusion control and minimise splice loss.
Neil Bessant, Fusion Splicer Divisional Manager, Fujikura Europe, believes increased maintenance and network upgrades across Europe mean engineers need the latest splicing technology to be able to stick to strict project schedules. He says, “According to the latest research, the pandemic has accelerated internet usage by a number of years, with high-speed fibre-optic broadband lines in Europe expected to more than double during the next six years alone. With increased installations, upgrades and network upkeep, engineers need robust and reliable technology that will help to complete projects on time and on budget. That’s why we have launched the 90S+.
“Against previous models, the 90S+ reduces overall working time and the unique design of the 90S+ has engineers front of mind. The easy splice positioning system makes it quicker for the user to handle the fibre, while real-time fusion control analyses the fibre’s brightness intensity during fusion – contributing to stable, reduced splice loss.
“The 90S+ is one of the most reliable splicers on the market as it offers a quick return on investment, is able to withstand all the elements and has a lifespan over many years – all vital for engineers looking to win upcoming installation projects.”
