THORLABS Vytran FFS2001 Series User Manual page 35

FFS2001 Series
Processes Toolbar
The Processes Toolbar allows the user to execute splice processes such as "Perpendicular View," "Core
Alignment," and "Filament Normalization." This toolbar can be customized by right clicking and selecting "Toolbar
Properties".
For example, "Perpendicular View" rotates both Fiber Holding Blocks 45°. This is commonly used in PM splicing.
After the PM stress members are aligned horizontally, "Perpendicular View" rotates the fiber such that Front View
and Back View allow the user to see the cores in two orthogonal views.
Macro Toolbar
The Macro Toolbar contains buttons that execute various macros. Note that it is possible to make buttons for
single line commands in the macro bar as well as buttons for entire macros. Please contact Thorlabs for assistance.
Quick Open File Toolbar
This toolbar allows the creation of buttons for easy access to commonly used splice files.
Main Toolbar
The illustrated buttons on the toolbar right above the image window execute processes critical to splicing and
data management.
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
Rev. A, August 14, 2024
Figure 29 Process Toolbar
Figure 30 Macro Toolbar
Chapter 4: Software
Page 29