July/August/September 2022 I 55
Additional advancements are ongoing, specifically
to tie fusion splicing data to cloud-based reporting
for close-out packages that installers deliver to their
customers for proof of network build and quality. Time
stamps, GPS location, photos of the splice location and
conditions, estimated splice loss, and pre-splice fiber
conditions are some of the information available for
upload to the cloud for reporting. This capability does
not meet the "smart" definition but provides beneficial
data for network construction quality and status. This
is one of the newest capabilities on the market and,
thus far, the primary benefactors appear to be the
installers managing the status of their construction
against key deadlines.
The key takeaway from the advent of smart fusion
splicing features and cloud reporting is that installation
equipment is performing key job functions technicians
were required to monitor.
Any experienced fusion splicing technician knows
the numerous steps and detailed tasks that require
management to light-up and repair a network correctly.
Modern installation equipment aims to take more off
management's shoulders, so mental capacity is allocated
to higher priorities. This is especially important as the
so-called Great Resignation, caused by the pandemic,
has ushered a newer generation of technicians. In addi-
tion, government stimulus for broadband equity is
driving companies to quickly recruit new hires whose
project deadlines outweigh training.
Stories of new fiber technicians without prior experi-
ence being handed fusion splicers, alongside many and
various kinds of fiber tools, on their first day on the job
and expected to successfully work on fiber networks are
more commonplace than ever. Doing more with less
is a common theme today, so machines and tools that
support this need are crucial.
