Fujikura 48S Optical Fiber Splicer Single Fiber Fusion Splicer

The Fujikura 48S represents a significant transitional model in Fujikura's lineup, bridging the gap between the classic "FSU" series (e.g., 43S) and the modern, iconic FSM-60S/70S/80S platforms. It was a high-end, core alignment splicer designed for precision work in the late 2000s, just before the advent of full-color touchscreen interfaces.

1. Review & Historical Significance

The FSU 48S is best understood as the direct and immediate predecessor to the legendary Fujikura FSM-60S. It incorporated several key technological advancements that would define the next generation of splicers, while still retaining a button-based interface.

Era: Late 2000s (circa 2008-2010). Now discontinued and considered obsolete.

Status: Found only on the secondary/used market. Official support and new genuine parts are scarce.

Legacy: The 48S was a crucial evolutionary step. It introduced the more compact, streamlined chassis design, faster processing, and improved optics that culminated in the FSM-60S. It was a workhorse for contractors and carriers during the early phases of major FTTX deployments.

Positioning: It was a premium, professional-grade core alignment splicer aimed at users who needed superior performance and reliability over the older 40-series models.

2. Performance & Technical Specifications

The 48S offered a noticeable performance boost over its predecessor, the 43S, particularly in speed and battery life.

Alignment Method: Advanced Core Alignment. Utilized Fujikura's refined imaging and software algorithms for precise X, Y, and Z-axis alignment of the fiber core, ensuring very low splice loss.

Average Splice Loss: Consistently very low. Typically < 0.03 dB for standard single-mode fiber (SMF, G.652). Its performance was on par with many modern splicers in terms of pure loss.

Splice Cycle Time: Approximately 8 seconds. This was faster than the 43S (~9 sec) and competitive at the time.

Heater Time: The integrated sleeve heater (for 60mm sleeves) was significantly improved, taking around 25-28 seconds.

Display: A larger, high-resolution monochrome LCD screen than the 43S. The menu system was more graphical and user-friendly, but it was still navigated with physical buttons, not a touchscreen.

Power Source: Used modern, high-capacity lithium-ion battery packs (e.g., FSB-31/32 series), offering approximately 300-400 splices on a single charge—a major improvement. Featured hot-swappable capability.

Robustness: Maintained Fujikura's legendary build quality, designed to withstand harsh field conditions.

3. Model Variants & Listing

The 48S was typically sold in different "packages" which included various accessories, rather than having fundamentally different model names for the core unit itself.

Model / Package Name Key Description & Purpose

FSU 48S The standard base unit. This refers to the splicer itself.

FSU 48S "M" Package The "Maintenance" or full kit. This was the most common professional package. It included the splicer, a sturdy hard carrying case, multiple batteries (FSB-32), a full set of tools, AC/DC adapters, and a portable ribbon heater (FHU-30).

FSU 48S "C" Package A more compact or basic kit. Often included a soft carrying case, one battery, and essential tools only, aimed at users with a smaller budget or more specific needs.

FSU-48S "R" (Ruggedized) A less common variant, sometimes featuring enhanced sealing against dust and moisture for extremely demanding environments.

Critical Note on Parts: Key consumable parts like the electrode (FSU-EP-02C), v-groove (FSU-015), and heater element are specific to the 48S/60S/70S family. While more common than 40-series parts, sourcing new genuine ones is becoming difficult.

4. Comparison with Predecessor and Modern Splicers

Feature Fujikura 43S (Older) Fujikura 48S (Newer) Modern Splicer (e.g., Fujikura 70S/100+)

Splice Time ~9 sec ~8 sec ~7 sec (Fast Mode)

Heater Time ~30-35 sec ~25-28 sec ~25 sec

Display/UI Monochrome, Buttons Improved Mono, Buttons Full-Color Touchscreen, Android OS

Battery Life ~200-250 splices ~300-400 splices ~500+ splices

Chassis Design Bulkier Streamlined, Lighter Even More Compact

Data Management Basic Basic Wi-Fi, Cloud, GPS, Apps

The Fujikura 48S was a top-tier, highly capable core alignment splicer that represented the final iteration of Fujikura's button-operated splicers. It offers excellent splice quality, robust construction, and performance that is still functionally adequate for most splicing tasks today.

However, its obsolete technology is its biggest drawback. The lack of a touchscreen, modern data management (Wi-Fi, cloud upload), and limited support make it inefficient for large-scale projects where traceability and speed are crucial.

Recommendation:

For a low-budget, occasional-use scenario where a used 48S can be found in good condition, it remains a powerful tool.

For professional, high-volume work, investing in a modern splicer like the Fujikura FS-100 (budget core alignment) or FS-200 (flagship) will result in dramatically improved workflow efficiency, data management, and long-term reliability. The 48S is best viewed as a respected relic of a previous technological era.