Photon Kinetics introduces 1050C Multi-Fiber Aligner to accelerate aligner loading process

Photon Kinetics, a provider of test instruments for optical fiber, cable, and component manufacturers, used the OFC 2018 last month to introduce its next-generation automated multi-fiber handler, the 1050C Multi-Fiber Aligner, to accelerate the aligner loading process. The 1050C Cable Aligner succeeds Photon Kinetics' 1001-MFH multi-fiber handler, a component of the company's OASYS OTDR automation system.

Like the 1001-MFH, the 1050C Cable Aligner leverages mass fiber preparation tools and cassette loading of multiple ribbon or loose tube fiber holders to accelerate the aligner loading process. The 1050C then makes use of video profile alignment and automated index matching oil application, coupling each fiber to the OTDR with low optical loss and reflectance, according to the company. Additionally, the 1050C can align conventional 250-um as well as high-density 200-um coated fibers packaged as loose tubes or fiber ribbons.

"We are very excited about this next-generation cable aligner," said Warren Hill, Photon Kinetics vice president, marketing and sales. "The 1050C is not only faster than its predecessor, but it is also compatible with a wider range of cabled fibers, whether they are single-mode or multimode, 250 um or 200 um, loose tube or ribbon. But while versatility is important, it is critical to understand that the 1050C enables automated, unattended OTDR measurements. Operators perform cable end preparation, fiber stripping, and cleaving processes in parallel with measurements and therefore these time-consuming activities have zero impact on test station output."

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