FFS2000 Series Chapter 5: Software
Page 22 TTN047338-D02
Open: Opens a data file containing parameters for splicing or tapering. Splicing systems are come
preinstalled with basic files (such as a SMF-28 to SMF-28 splice). Those are available under specific
filament folders. Be sure to have the corresponding filament installed before using a file.
Save: Saves the parameters currently in use to a data file that can be accessed later. In the case you are
using an XML file provided by Thorlabs, it is recommend that you perform a “Save As” so that the
standard file can be referenced in the future.
Purge: Increases the argon flow throughout the unit, removing air and impurities that may contaminate
the splice process.
Cleave: Sends the cleave blade forward to scribe the fiber. Please note that this make take a few
seconds the first time you run the process after opening FFS3.
Motor Engage: Pulls both FHBs out in the z-direction to ensure that the hex drive FHB pin and splicer
socket mate well.
Load fibers: This moves the splice head to the splice position so that the Transfer Jig may be lowered
without damaging the fibers with the filament.
Gap: Sets the fibers so that the end faces are at the pre-gap distance specified under “Splice
Parameters.”
Alignment: Finds the edges of the fibers and aligns them. This will only align the fibers in the current
view (front or back), so it is necessary to repeat this process in an orthogonal (left or right) view. The
Alignment Process will not work if both edges of each fiber are not on the screen. In the end view mode,
this process will rotate the fiber and align it based on the current PM Alignment Settings.
Core Alignment: Aligns the cores of the fibers, rather than aligning the fibers using their edges.
Active Alignment: Aligns the fibers actively using an external light source and power meter. The power
meter must be connected to the “Analog Input 1” port on the back panel. The analog input reading can be
configured under ConfigurationAnalog Input Configuration. The power meter should output a signal
range of 0 V to 10 V.
Splice Only: Executes the basic splice process: the splice head moves into position and executes a
splice according the splice parameters. This process will not attempt to align the fibers; it is useful in the
case where the fibers have been manually aligned.
Loss estimation: Estimates the loss in a splice, based on the appearance of the cores in the splice
region. For a more accurate estimation, you need to have the correct calibration file; please contact
Thorlabs for more assistance.
Proof Test: Performs the proof test process (Item #s FFS2000PT and FFS2000WS).
Initialize: Begins communication between the FFS3 software and the FSX2000 hardware, which is
necessary whenever FFS3 is first opened.
Reset: Resets machine communication and homes the position of the fiber holding blocks. This process
takes approximately 45 sec to complete. Initialize machine before operation.
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