Fujikura 33S Splicing Machines 33s Optical Fiber Splicer

Here is a comprehensive overview of the Fujikura 33S optical fiber splicer, covering its review, performance, and model variants.

Fujikura 33S Optical Fiber Splicer: Comprehensive Overview

The Fujikura 33S is a legendary single-fiber fusion splicer that was a cornerstone of optical network deployment from the late 1990s through the 2000s. While long discontinued, it remains a benchmark for reliability and is often remembered fondly by veteran technicians.

1. Review & Historical Significance

The 33S was a primary model in Fujikura's lineup before the era of the famous FSM-50S and FSM-60S. It was designed for high-performance splicing in both central office and field environments.

Era: Late 1990s - Mid 2000s.

Status: Discontinued. It is now considered obsolete and is only found on the secondary/used market.

Legacy: It set a high standard for reliability and splicing quality, solidifying Fujikura's reputation as a top-tier manufacturer of fusion splicing equipment. Many are still in operation today, a testament to their build quality.

Key Innovation: It was one of the early mass-produced splicers to successfully implement Fujikura's proprietary PAS (Profile Alignment System) technology for core alignment.

2. Performance & Technical Specifications

For its time, the 33S offered excellent performance. However, its specs are vastly outperformed by modern splicers.

Alignment Method: PAS (Profile Alignment System). This is a core-to-core alignment system where cameras image the fiber's core from two orthogonal directions (X and Y-axis) to achieve precise alignment before fusion. This was superior to simpler fixed V-groove or clalignment methods, resulting in lower loss.

Average Splice Loss: Typically < 0.05 dB for standard SMF (G.652). This was a top-tier result in its heyday.

Splice Time: Approximately 15-20 seconds per cycle (including fiber placement, calibration, splicing, and loss estimation). This is considered very slow by modern standards.

Heater Time: The integrated heat shrink oven (sleeve protector) took around 60-90 seconds to shrink a standard 60mm sleeve.

Display: A monochrome LCD screen, non-touch, with a simple menu-driven interface.

Power Source: Primarily a proprietary Li-Ion battery (e.g., FSB-12). Runtime was typically 100-150 splices per charge. It could also operate via an AC adapter or a DC car cable.

Robustness: Famous for its durability and ruggedness. Built to withstand the rigors of field use.

3. Model Variants & Listing

The "33S" was the base model number, but several variants and companion models existed. The nomenclature often differed slightly by region.

Model Name Key Description & Purpose

FSU 33S The standard, full-featured base model. Included both fusion splicing and sleeve heating functions.

FSU 33S FM A "Fast Mount" version. It featured a specialized baseplate or fixture for rapid mounting onto a specific type of aerial lift (bucket truck) or closure, popular with certain telecom operators.

FSU 33S M Sometimes denoted a special order or minor revision.

FSU 33S / FSU 33S+ The "Plus" designation sometimes indicated a minor internal upgrade or a kit that included additional accessories.

FSU 33SL A "Lite" or compact version. It was often a slightly smaller or more basic package, potentially sold without a carrying case or with a reduced accessory set.

FSU 33SR A "Ruggedized" or heavy-duty version, often with enhanced environmental sealing.

Important Note on Compatibility: Accessories like electrodes (e.g., FSU-025), V-grooves, and heaters were specific to the 33S series but are now extremely difficult to find new.

4. Comparison with Modern Splicers (e.g., Fujikura 100+ Series)

Feature Fujikura 33S (Historical) Modern Splicer (e.g., Fujikura 100+)

Splice Time ~15-20 sec ~7-9 sec (Fast Mode)

Heater Time ~60-90 sec ~25-35 sec

Alignment PAS (Core) Advanced Core Alignment & AI

Display Monochrome LCD Large, Full-Color Touchscreen

Battery ~100-150 splices ~500+ splices (Hot-swappable)

Software Basic menus Android OS, Apps, GPS, Cloud

Weight/Size Heavy & Large Lighter & More Compact

The Fujikura 33S is a historically significant machine that played a vital role in building the global fiber optic infrastructure. It is revered for its unmatched durability and excellent splicing quality for its time. However, its slow speed, obsolete technology, and lack of support make it unsuitable for modern professional use outside of very specific legacy or low-budget scenarios. Modern splicers like the Fujikura FS-100, FS-150, or FS-200 series offer dramatic improvements in every performance metric.