Lightera and FITEL Highlight Advanced HCF and MCF Fusion Splicing Technologies at ECOC 2026

MALAGA, Spain, September 21, 2026 — FITEL and Lightera will showcase next-generation fusion splicing innovations at ECOC 2026, building on the proven FITEL® S185 series of specialty splicer platforms with new advanced techniques designed specifically for hollow core fiber (HCF) and multicore fiber (MCF) alignment and splicing.

Demonstrations at Stand 1058 will feature enhanced imaging, precision rotational alignment, and adaptive arc control methods that address the unique structural and thermal sensitivities of emerging specialty fibers used in ultra-low-latency, ultra-wideband, and high-density optical systems.

Advanced Techniques for HCF and MCF Splicing

Hollow core fiber introduces new splicing challenges due to its air-guided core, thin ring-tube structure, and extreme temperature sensitivity. Multicore fiber also presents unique alignment obstacles, driven not only by the presence of multiple cores but also by integrated orientation markers. The FITEL S185 splicer addresses these alignment challenges through enhanced multi-feature imaging and advanced alignment algorithms designed for these emerging fiber types, including:

• End-View Cross-Section Imaging Alignment — real-time visualization of the fiber end face to verify core geometry and rotational orientation, which is critical for MCF core mapping and alignment.
• Uniform Circumferential Heating (“Ring-of-Fire,” Three-Electrode Arc Discharge) — evenly distributed plasma heating to reduce asymmetric thermal stress on MCF, supporting lower loss and improving splice strength and consistency.
• Adaptive Arc Control for HCF — advanced arc control designed to manage the unique thermal sensitivity of hollow core fiber and optimize splice performance.

These techniques help preserve optical performance and improve repeatability when working with complex optical systems.

Live Demonstrations at ECOC 2026

Visitors to the Lightera booth will see live specialty splicing workflows and learn how advanced HCF and MCF splicing techniques support emerging applications in:

• Ultra-low-latency optical links
• High-capacity spatial division multiplexing
• AI and data center interconnect applications
• Advanced sensing and photonics systems

About Lightera

Lightera is a global leader in optical fiber and connectivity solutions. Built on a legacy of expertise in optical science, we provide high-performance solutions that enable faster, more reliable, and sustainable connections for businesses, communities, and industries worldwide.

With operational headquarters in Norcross, Georgia, U.S.A., Lightera serves customers across telecommunications, enterprise, industrial, generative AI, data centers, 5G/6G, utilities, medical, aerospace, defense, and sensing markets.

Lightera is part of Furukawa Electric Group, a pioneer in advancing the next generation of infrastructure through integrated solutions in connectivity, information, energy, and mobility, to create a safe, peaceful, and sustainable world.

Please visit lightera.com

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Lightera PR Contact:
Sherry Salyer
Sherry.salyer@lightera.com