Certified Fiber Optics Practice Exam

What is the primary advantage of using a fusion splice over a mechanical splice in fiber optics?

1. Lower cost

2. Higher reliability

3. Faster installation

4. Ease of use

The correct answer is: Higher reliability

The primary advantage of using a fusion splice over a mechanical splice in fiber optics is higher reliability. Fusion splicing involves melting the ends of two optical fibers together with an electric arc, creating a continuous and low-loss optical path. This method produces a permanent splice that minimizes the amount of light loss and reflects compared to mechanical splices, which rely on aligning the fibers in a holder and using an adhesive or a similar method to keep them in place. The resulting fusion splice has a stronger molecular bond and is more resilient to environmental factors, such as temperature fluctuations and physical stress. This increased reliability is crucial in applications that require stable and consistent performance over time, as any fluctuation in the connection could lead to signal degradation. In contrast, the other choices, while having their respective benefits, do not surpass the durable and stable connection established by a fusion splice, which is essential in ensuring optimal functionality in fiber optics systems.