Installation Guide

Page 34 of 41
TECHNICAL GUIDELINE
August 13, 2018
TG02 Rev.13
Communications 800.551.8948 | Fax [phone] | SuperiorEssex.com
Fiber Cable Splicing
In general, splices are best avoided and often can be due to the relatively short distances typical
of premises networks. If splices are required, fusion splices are recommended due to lower
attenuation. However, mechanical splices are allowed.
All fusion splices should be protected by a splice sleeve. All splices should be housed in a splice tray.
All outdoor splices should be stored in an environmentally suitable splice closure. As a reminder,
although there are common standards to ensure interoperability between cable and hardware,
many hardware features are manufacturer specific. Therefore, the following table should be used in
conjunction with the instructions/guidelines relevant to the splicing solution being employed.
  
Step Action

Verify that the correct splicing method has been chosen, making sure that the tools and hardware facilitate
the method to be used. Listed below are the following factors to calculate splice and closure size:
• Cable construction
• Cable fiber count
• Splice type
• Splice location

The space needs of the splice closure, the working space, and the cable pathway leading to the splice are
important factors that need to be considered. The cable should not be bent so that it twists or violates the
minimum bend radius.
 Use safety precautions to set up the splicing area using ladders or scaffolding, where required.

Install a support structure for the splice, if necessary. Sustain the proper bending radius of the cable, and keep
room for the appropriate splice closure.

Install the closure per the closure manufacturer’s instructions, and perform the splice
per the splice/splicer manufacturer’s instructions, including but not limited to the following:
• Cable preparation – often the cable manufacturer’s guidelines and closure manufacturer’s guidelines must
both be referenced to achieve the proper procedures and measurements.
• Secure all cables to prevent movement relative to the closure.
• Properly bond and ground any cables with metallic components.
• Provide ample fiber length inside the closure. Consider both current access and possible future changes.
Balance fiber length on both sides of the splice to aid in neat fiber storage.
• Protect all splices with a splice sleeve and store all splices and slack fiber in a splice tray.
• Label the splice per the customer specification (ANSI/TIA/EIA-606 Administration Standard for the
Telecommunications Infrastructure of Commercial Buildings recommended) and update as-built drawings
as necessary.
 Clear out the Work Area.