Efficiency is crucial in the fiber optic industry, and reducing micro cable preparation time can impact project timelines and costs. At Hexatronic, we've managed to dramatically reduce the preparation time of the new Viper Ease Micro Cable. This article examines how we achieved this milestone, showcases the time saved, and discusses what benefits it brings to field technicians.
The challenge
Micro cables are essential for fiber optic networks, but preparing them for splicing can be time-consuming and complex. In addition to blowing in the cable, the preparation when branching and joining cables is the most time-consuming step. Field technicians often face challenges such as intricate handling and precise cutting, which can slow down the installation process.
To address these challenges, we gathered feedback from fiber technicians across the Nordic countries. Their insights were invaluable in identifying the pain points in the current preparation process. Read more about the development of Viper Ease.
Viper Ease features
Based on the feedback from the fiber technicians, our R&D team implemented several key improvements:
- Tangle-free yarn: Simplifies the stripping process, reducing preparation time.
- Gel-free loose tubes: Eliminates the need for cleaning, speeding up installations.
- Improved color marks: Enhances visibility for quick identification of fibers and tubes.
Easy-to-use products ensure project timelines and correct installations for future-proof networks. With Viper Ease, you get all the benefits from our Viper series, including extra perks to be amazed by in the field. Viper Ease is available with 12-288 fibers.
50-70% less preparation time
Our Viper Ease time study, which you can follow in our video, shows that splicing Viper Ease requires 50-70% less preparation time than regular micro cables. The improved handling makes Viper Ease perfect for mid-span, and the higher the fiber count, the more time you can save.
Fewer steps, less tools
Reducing the steps in the preparation process not only speeds up the project, it also minimizes the amount of tools you’ll need in the field. The images will guide you.
Traditional micro cable
Viper Ease
Benefits for fiber technicians
The reduction in preparation time has several benefits for fiber technicians:
- Increased efficiency: Technicians can spend less time on cable preparation and more time on other critical tasks.
- Enhanced productivity: Faster installations and repairs lead to quicker network upgrades and reduced downtime.
- Improved accuracy: The new features minimize errors and ensure high-quality connections.
Conclusion
Our success in reducing micro cable preparation time is a testament to the power of listening to feedback and investing in product development. By prioritizing the needs of fiber technicians, we've not only improved efficiency but also set a new standard in the industry.
Fiber technicians have a central role in enabling a modern digital society, getting people connected and staying connected. By listening to their feedback, our R&D and product management teams collaborated to create a new generation of our popular Viper Micro Cable, reducing the preparation time for installers by 50-70%.
Hexatronic is all about complete fiber optic system solutions that reduce the total Cost of Ownership (TCO) for networks, and compatible products of high quality that are easy to install are critical. Viper Ease is yet another leap in the right direction, into even more user-friendly products based on the insights of the fiber technicians themselves.
