How do you compare and evaluate different optical fiber cleaver models and brands for FTTH projects?

1 Blade quality and lifespan

One of the most critical components of a fiber cleaver is the blade, which is usually made of tungsten carbide or diamond. The blade determines how sharp and accurate the cut is, and how long it can last before it needs to be replaced or adjusted. A high-quality blade can make thousands of cuts, while a low-quality blade can wear out quickly and produce poor results. You should look for a fiber cleaver that has a blade with a high hardness, durability, and smoothness, and that can be easily rotated or replaced when needed.

2 Cleaving angle and precision

Another important factor to consider is the cleaving angle and precision of the fiber cleaver. The cleaving angle is the angle between the end face of the fiber and the perpendicular axis of the fiber. The ideal cleaving angle is 90 degrees, which minimizes the loss and reflection of light. However, due to imperfections in the fiber or the blade, the actual cleaving angle may deviate from 90 degrees, resulting in a higher loss and reflection. The cleaving precision is the variation of the cleaving angle among different cuts. The lower the cleaving precision, the more consistent and uniform the cuts are. You should look for a fiber cleaver that has a low cleaving angle and a high cleaving precision, and that can measure and display these parameters.

4 Ease of use and maintenance

A fourth factor to consider is the ease of use and maintenance of the fiber cleaver. A fiber cleaver should be simple and intuitive to operate, with clear instructions and indicators. It should also be ergonomic and comfortable to hold and use, with a smooth and stable mechanism. A fiber cleaver should also be easy to maintain, with a simple and accessible way to clean, lubricate, and calibrate the tool. You should look for a fiber cleaver that has a user-friendly design and function, and that can be kept in good condition with minimal effort.

5 Cost and warranty

A fifth factor to consider is the cost and warranty of the fiber cleaver. A fiber cleaver is an investment that can affect the quality and efficiency of your FTTH projects. Therefore, you should look for a fiber cleaver that offers a good value for your money, taking into account the initial price, the operating cost, and the expected lifespan. You should also look for a fiber cleaver that comes with a warranty that covers any defects or damages that may occur during normal use. You should compare and evaluate different optical fiber cleaver models and brands based on their cost and warranty terms.

6 Customer reviews and ratings

A sixth factor to consider is the customer reviews and ratings of the fiber cleaver. A fiber cleaver may look good on paper, but it may not perform well in practice. Therefore, you should check what other users have to say about their experience with the fiber cleaver, especially those who work on FTTH projects. You should look for a fiber cleaver that has positive and credible feedback from customers, and that has a high rating on online platforms or publications. You should also avoid a fiber cleaver that has negative or questionable reviews, or that has a low rating.